[Elecraft] Mobile Elecraft

[Edward R Cole]

I am outfitting my new F250 4x4 diesel pickup (crew cab) with ham 
gear so very opportune subject.

I will be installing a new Alinco DR735T 50w dual-band mobile with 
the separation kit so the main radio will be installed under the rear 
seat in a 5-inch high by 10-inch wide lockable storage bin.  The 
front panel mounts with an enclosure-bracket and mic to the lower 
front dash and 16-foot control cable routed on the floor under the 
seat console then across to driver side under rear door molding to 
the metal bin.  I am going to install a TNC plus a GPS in the rear 
window for APRS beaconing while on the road.  A dual-band mag-mount 
antenna will be used. I will run speaker wire to a 4-inch square 
mobile speaker to be attached on the floor under the radios.

Next to the DR735T control panel I will mount the KX3 with two coax 
run to the back.  The KX3 will be powered from one of the four 
accessory switches Ford calls "Uplifter panel", since current draw is 
light for running 10w.  I am going to install the KXPA-100 (I may add 
a fan) in the rear enclosure with the Alinco radio - plenty room 
under two seats.  I may also add a 2m linear for running SSB with the 
KX3-2M.  I will drill some large holes for air ventilation in the lockable bin.

I plan to run a heavy 12v line from the left battery (truck has dual 
batteries) to a barrier strip.  Each radio will run dual fuses and 
main power line a 25A fuse at the battery. Access hole will be thru 
floor under the rear seat where coax will also be run to four 
antennas: dual-band vertical; 6m Larsen 1/4wave mag-mount vertical; 
2m par-angle horizontal loop on short mast in front corner of truck 
bed and a 3/8-inch stud mount in the other corner of the bed for some 
HF ham sticks (HF mobile is not my prime mobile operation).  2m-FM is 
likely my most used mode, with 2m-SSB secondary.      I thinking 
about mounts for antennas on the trailer when parked.

We are setting the new truck up for travel with a 5th wheel trailer 
to be purchased next spring.

I will have a new webpage showing the mobile set up after its 
installed (new DR735T arrives Monday)

73, Ed - KL7UW
http://www.kl7uw.com
     "Kits made by KL7UW"
Dubus Mag business:
     dubususa at gmail.com