In-Dash CB Idea

mbumpus11

mbumpus11

Member
I've been searching for what feels like weeks, and haven't seen anyone do what I'm hoping to do when I get around to installing a CB radio in my truck.

Figured I would pose the question and someone would know from taking the dash apart for other mods (@antman?).

Would a CB fit depth-wise in the area (if cut/removed) where the half-width storage cubby and AUX/12V outlet is in the attached pic?

0833954edc97d3a53308f8a9893cfc49.jpg
 
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I thought most CB'rs went the way of single side band. But if I were doing it, I would look for one with remote tuning and controls. That way the radio could be anywhere like under a seat; thus removing the need to cut up the dash.
 
Could, but you could have trouble trimming the trims properly.

The center console has good space too. I'd go with the split Cobra unit. I had one and they're so easy to "install".
 
I'm genuinely frustrated that there isn't an open source style head unit system that you could use as an interface system...

It's 2017 and you're telling me that with all the high-end digital and even PC based UHF systems you can't get one with a USB/Data cable that plugs into a nice head unit and lets you use it as an interface instead of having a tacky looking 80's block shoved somewhere in my dash!?

-Rant Over-

To answer your question... maybe, but probably not. Also why CB?
 
BlackWorksInc said:
I'm genuinely frustrated that there isn't an open source style head unit system that you could use as an interface system...

It's 2017 and you're telling me that with all the high-end digital and even PC based UHF systems you can't get one with a USB/Data cable that plugs into a nice head unit and lets you use it as an interface instead of having a tacky looking 80's block shoved somewhere in my dash!?

-Rant Over-

To answer your question... maybe, but probably not. Also why CB?
Click to expand...

Not sure if your rant is about CB.. but if so it has to do with the FCC and the way the licensing goes. It is with the radio for CB (not the operator), so the radio can't do anything else and be legal....

For the same reason. dual band 2m/70cm ham radios sold in the US... can't legally transmit on a bunch of the FRS... frequencies. Sometimes you can modify them.. Just sucks that they won't let them build a tri band 11M,2M,70cm radio...
 
wfo9 said:
Not sure if your rant is about CB.. but if so it has to do with the FCC and the way the licensing goes. It is with the radio for CB (not the operator), so the radio can't do anything else and be legal....

For the same reason. dual band 2m/70cm ham radios sold in the US... can't legally transmit on a bunch of the FRS... frequencies. Sometimes you can modify them.. Just sucks that they won't let them build a tri band 11M,2M,70cm radio...
Click to expand...

Sorry I wasn't entirely clear there. I understand the FCC reasons for why you can't have say a CB/HA combo unit.

I meant more like having a custom headunit that has open source software/ports so you could plug in additional items.

I would like to eventually do a HAM set-up but would rather shove the box and hardware in the back and run a cable to a head unit/touch screen and use a software based interface vs. a tacky looking remote faceplate. It's entirely doable on non-vehicle units with laptop based and PC based modules using the computer as an interface device, so it just frustrates me that it doesn't apply to vehicles yet.

The rant was just mostly because instead of the OP having to cut-up his 4Runner he should be able to buy a new unit that plugs into a good aftermarket head unit so he doesn't make his truck look tacky to have comms.
 
BlackWorksInc said:
Sorry I wasn't entirely clear there. I understand the FCC reasons for why you can't have say a CB/HA combo unit.

I meant more like having a custom headunit that has open source software/ports so you could plug in additional items.

I would like to eventually do a HAM set-up but would rather shove the box and hardware in the back and run a cable to a head unit/touch screen and use a software based interface vs. a tacky looking remote faceplate. It's entirely doable on non-vehicle units with laptop based and PC based modules using the computer as an interface device, so it just frustrates me that it doesn't apply to vehicles yet.

The rant was just mostly because instead of the OP having to cut-up his 4Runner he should be able to buy a new unit that plugs into a good aftermarket head unit so he doesn't make his truck look tacky to have comms.
Click to expand...

I'm right there with you...wish there was a way to have a new multi-faceted user interface that could handle all of these improvements!

Why CB? Friends have CB, places I hunt have CB bases nearby (even where cell service is spotty), and history with CB use. I'd like to eventually go HAM, I think, but want to start simple before diving headfirst into all the HAM licensing/equipment runs my life.

For the record, I'm leaning towards the Uniden 520XL Pro. My BIL is a sheriff's deputy and uses it all the time. That, or the Cobra 29 LX, but I like the compact nature of the Uniden for now.
 
Just throwing this out there, but we've got power outlets in the center console. I ran a fire stick cable under the trim from my rear bumper up to the console and use this midland.. works well for me cause I can just pull it out when I need to, I get the desire for a dash mounted rig though.

https://midlandusa.com/product/75-822cb-radio/
 
mbumpus11 said:
I've been searching for what feels like weeks, and haven't seen anyone do what I'm hoping to do when I get around to installing a CB radio in my truck.

Figured I would pose the question and someone would know from taking the dash apart for other mods (@antman?).

Would a CB fit depth-wise in the area (if cut/removed) where the half-width storage cubby and AUX/12V outlet is in the attached pic?
Click to expand...

Taking the dash apart is a piece of cake. You need brute force and a phillips screwdriver (video in my build thread on page 1), it takes less than a minute. Find a radio with a shallow box and use that measurement. Cutting into the cubby is fairly easy. I used a dremel and a box cutter. I plastic soldered my switches into the cubby so they would stay put. OR.... Another option is the console. I have an external speaker so no need to have the console open while using the radio, set it and forget it. I mounted the radio on the rear wall of the cubby with heavy duty velcro. It doesn't move and fits perfect, with plenty of space left for storage. Also it's easy to run wire into the cubby, just remove the console and drill a hole in the bottom.

:nod:
 
JSparky said:
Just throwing this out there, but we've got power outlets in the center console. I ran a fire stick cable under the trim from my rear bumper up to the console and use this midland.. works well for me cause I can just pull it out when I need to, I get the desire for a dash mounted rig though.

https://midlandusa.com/product/75-822cb-radio/
Click to expand...

This thread has more ideas, including my dash mounted Midland 75-822.

BTW my truck stop CB shop recommended the Midland over the Cobra 75 because they could tweek it to get it at max legal power output and could not do that with the Cobra. As with many CBS they can be well below max legal power out of the box.

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/5th-gen-t4rs/211968-cb-radio-suggestions-8.html

Edit add: If you go in the dash you will likely be covering the CB speaker, which could degrade clarity.
 
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