Well, I finally finished my install. I used the void in the center console, as described by Wanderlost Overland, but I changed the mounting points for the connectors to a different location. I went with the low cubby in front of the shift lever. The 3 foot cable lengths that they had spec'ed in their YouTube posting were long enough to reach.

Other changes I made - I vampire-tapped the auxiliary power socket that runs to the center console. Adding a power distribution system is on my list of things to do real soon now...

Part of the decision on the connector location was driven by thoughts on where the Mic Cord would have the least conflicts with coffee cups. And since I'm also considering that cubby for a set of rocker switches, the connector could easily be moved forward at that time. But all also admit that since cutting these holes will be the first non-reversible mod, I wanted to go for an unobtrusive spot...

I'm not sure how or what I was measuring when I thought that this would work (as shown in the first picture). If anybody else tries this, do not place them as shown there!! The air duct behind that piece was much wider, and closer than I realized.

I wound up moving the RJ-45 plug to the far left, and even then had to apply significant Dremel-tool and X-acto knife surgery to the plug. I moved the USB power port to the far right, and turned it sideways to ensure no conflict.

All of this required a healthy application of epoxy to hold the RJ45 in the new position, since I'd carved away extra plastic, and black duct tape to cover up the empty space. Images of the results of that carnage are further down.

I'm happy with the end result. And, happily, the evidence of this experiment is hidden away where it can't be seen.

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I mounted both my GMRS and CB in my center console. This includes the mic spliters for dual access. Plenty of space.

Dades Bluegirl build

Where do you put your big gulp???

Anyone using the Ghost Antenna with the MXT275?
MicroMobile(R) MXTA25 3dB Gain Ghost Antenna | Midland Radio

I am using the ghost antenna





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I got it. Works well. Put it on the A-Pillar, although I learned from a guy who knows what he was talking about the way radios and attenaes work that Midland is "stretching" the actual specs a bit.

I like where you mounted your ghost antenna, was the 12ft cable long enough or did you have to extend it? If you did extend it did that effect the performance? I was going to mount mine on the rear of the rack the route the wires back to the center console, but I don't think I can do that without extending the cable and I'm not sure that recommended.

Hey guys,

I am thinking about getting a MXT275 and putting it in my center console.

What is the best way to get the antenna cable out of the truck? I know there is a grommet in the passenger side of the firewall since I used it for my OEM audio install but I don't see me passing another cable thru there.

If it helps, I am thinking of temporarily mounting it on my hood with the magnetic base. I will only be using it once in a while so I am looking for the easiest way.

Thanks
Colt

Firewall on driver or passenger side is your best option. Some of the antenna cables disconnect on the end to make running the wire a lot easier. I always do the coat hanger trick.

Okay, it took me a minute to figure out what you did. Simple and Brilliant!

Your solution works perfectly for me since I will keep the mic in my center console 95% of the time and just plug it in when I need it. The unit is tucked up and out of the way but easy to get at when needed.

Couple of questions:

1. Are those threaded washers?
2. Did you use washers on the other side as well?
3. Do you happen to have a parts list of the hardware you used?

Colt

Thanks for the response. I didn't know that the end comes off the cable. I feel a little better now.

Colt

My setup is a low profile antenna cable, ghost antenna, and roll bar mount (installed on Gobi rack). A few people have that setup.

No, they arent threaded. Just flat washers, but you need wide ones with a small hole. I did use washers on the other side i think it was a while ago. Sorry, i do not remember the parts list, all i did was take the screw to the ace hardware and use thier nuts and washer display.

My biggest issue is i simply cant find double stick tape strong enough to hold the mic on. I tried the top stuff and even that peels right off over time.

My other TIP for all of you is do not waste your money on a GMRS license. Yes, i am advising you to technically break the law, but its a $70, and NO ONE FOLLOWS THE RULES. 90% of the traffic is kids playing hide and seek or other child games LOl

I will eventually pickup a antenna that can mount between the hood and windshield but until then...

Would it work if I put the antenna that comes with the unit in the rear passenger side panel? See picture. I am assuming that it should work better than a little hand held unit, right?

Also, would it be safe, health-wise? I am assuming 15 watts coming from the other side of the windshield vs the rear cargo area wouldn't make much of a difference?

Thanks ahead of time for all your help
Colt

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FYI, you're going to have a pretty big null in your antenna coverage because of the rack. With any antenna, metal in close proximity is going to absolutely kill the radiation pattern. I'd recommend getting the can completely above the rack rails, unless you prefer the "super stealth" look over improved performance.