Antenna placement
 

I just invested in a CB with firestik II 4' antenna and appropriate mount/cable to mount it on the rear. Now I was wondering if it would make any reception difference if I put the bracket on the rear near the base of the tail light versus near the top? Putting it near the top would get me about a foot more aerial clearance but I have seen it both ways. Would it really matter that much? Thanks!

youd probably not have enough surface material to safely mount the mount. and if it were possible, it wouldnt make a lick of difference. the rear mount is not that great for long distance transmission/recieving, but just fine for trail riding.

What is the best place for the best overall reception?

highest point on the vehicle?

center of roof which is why many people opt for a magnetic mount. the popular magnetic mounts seem to be the wilson 1000 or the 5000.

PS the mount I will be using is made for that kind of thing. The difference in placement is shown here:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v3...unner/rear.jpg
on SC4Runner's rig versus:
http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e2...y/antmount.jpg
on Poul D'eau's rig

Almost anywhere is OK for reception, but for the best transmission, centered on the roof is best. An antenna needs a surface area of sheetmetal to work properly. That area of sheetmetal is called a groundplane (not to be confused with an electrical ground) and acts as the second half of the antenna. The bigger (and higher) the groundplane, the better the antenna will perform.

Also, for maximum transmit range, a full 9' (a quarter wave at CB frequencies) is best. An antenna that has been pysically shortened through loading (the windings you can see) while still being 9' electrically, are less efficient. The shorter (more windings), the less efficient.

I'll have to wait until the hardware comes in to determine if I want to mount it high or low, i'll see what looks better as I think reception will be the same from what I gather from yalls replies. Thanks!

I agree with Bob and fourwd1. The higher the better. The roof is the best and in the middle is great! Magnet mounts are great especially the Wilson's. I have used both the 1000 and the 5000. I have no problems at all. I talked to this one dude in South Africa with the 5000. If you wish to resort to using the fiberglass or stainless steel type antennas, you could mount them with magnet mounts or roof mounts. A roof mount would require you to drill a hole through the roof. Yes, I know that it sounds crazy but, it is safe and very secure!!! PM me or feel free to ask me any questions and I will do my best to answer them.
Aloha,
Mike
135 Communications
Aiea, Hawaii
"THE ISLANDS MOST TALKED ABOUT,
AND THE CRYBABIES MOST HATED" :great:

I agree higher is better for xmit range, but creates a huge snare on the top of your rig in the woods. I mount mine on the left fender. I get enough range for trail rides, and to hear where wrecks and slick spots are from truckers. I like having it here so I can grab it out the window and bend it out of the way in low clerance parking lots.

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j1...ashtash035.jpg

This is a picture of a XForce CB antenna mount. This is for sale through XForce amps. This is also for sale through Davemade amps.