I'm going to be installing a Cobra 18WXSTII in my runner and I have a question about using dual antennas. I have a 4ft roof mount Firestik with a quick release but its just not practical for daily driving in town. I also have a window mount with a 2 foot mast that would be more practical. I know the reception is worse but I park in a parking ramp for work so it makes sense.

My question is can I use both by simply using a splitter like this:

http://www.walcottcb.com/t259-coax-c...ale-p-239.html

Or is my only option just to connect the appropriate antenna to the radio as needed?

 

You don't want to use two antennas (co-phase) unless you can get them about7-8 feet apart. Get a good mag mount for the roof. They work the best for roof top installations.

 

You can also get a spring loaded foldable antenna. Keep in mind with the foldable antenna if you transmit with the antenna folded down and your SWR is really off there's the possibility of damaging your CB.

http://www.firestik.com/CatalogFrame.htm
Click on Mounts and Accessories, Fold-Down w/Spring

A lot of guys have the antenna mounted on the corner of the front bumper. It's not the best for range but if you are primarily using it for 4wheeling it should be more than adequate.

 

I run a magnet mount with my 18WXSTII and when I need to park in a garage, etc I unscrew the antenna off the base and stow it appropriately.

For that matter, you could do a rear bumper mount if you plan on keeping it on there 24/7. That's what I intend to do when I get around to it

 

I think it looks a lot better having the antenna on the back bumper or on the side of the gate but correct me if I'm wrong doesn't the antenna need to be 2/3rds above the roof line or the SWRs go too high?

 

You can get the SWR's in a good range on the bumper, but you are then mounting the antenna on the edge of the ground plane. Performance will suffer. With a magnetic on the roof, you are in the center of the ground plane. Much better performance, even with a lower quality antenna. I have been doing CB installs for many years and this is based on my experience.

 

Ahhh good to know. Thanks!

 

get the firestik door jamb mount and mount it at the topp of the tail gate between the gate and the bed itself.

i didnt think of this for my truck untill it was too late...ohwell its the plan for the 4runner now!