Gator

uuuuuummmmmm......eeeerrrrrrr.......I don't know about 50 miles, but you can push the signal pretty far if you don't mind the risk of interfering with the radios and TV's close to you. On this topic, I highly recommend you look to some radio forums and/or Google search the words "Polamar kicker".

It may not be legal, but boosting output can be done. Keep in mind that any claims to have talked over long distances may have been possible by catching radio skip caused by the atmosphere.

86blue4runner

yea i think thats what my dad was talking about....still pretty cool though. so on average how far can a CB transmit, what are some LEGAL ways to boost the signal?

bob200587

When i had my CB and 4' antenna I was able to talk to a guy like 40 miles west on the other side of town....Stationary of course...

corvey

What kind of wattage you have on that radio bob?

Gator

CB radios are all sold maxed out per FCC guidelines. The FCC will only allow you to transmit at 4 watts. so legally you can't boost the signal. This will typically get you between 2-5 miles based on how good you are at tuning your set up and the terrain around you. CB's operate on "line of sight" frequencies so mountains and other obstacles will decrease the distance you can get out.

If you are really serious about using radios to fill the void left by poor cell signals, then you may want to consider 2m HAM radios. This requires an Amateur radio license, but is very capable of reaching out beyond 50 miles as well as providing a way to call via land lines using the repeater you are using to communicate.

HAM also gives you a faster way to get information during severe weather since all of the weather chasers use HAM radio's to communicate with each other and the NWS.

Tofer

the CB in my sig is installed in my ashtray.... let me see if i can dig up some pics.

MMA_Alex

dont screw around with amps for cb, for one they're illegal, and it stupid because the other person you're talking to has to have an amp too or it'll be a 1 way communication. It is possible to go more than 5 miles with 4 watts at those frequencies, but its just pointless.

KevinInSac

I've got mine mounted right below the radio, the mic is on the center console (above the tray, below the latch) and the ext. speaker is on the back of the console, basically in the back seat.


Works like a charm for me. The radio is easily accesible and the mic is easy to get to. The speaker is in perfect position for me to hear it with windows down and music up.