[ICOM] Mobile installations, Ford F-150's ?

[Phil Atchley]

Hi All,

I'm not sure that this is an entirely appropriate list for this post since 
I'm not yet certain the radio I get will be an Icom.  But I don't know where 
else to ask the questions (and there are a lot of mobile setups with Icom 
radios out there).

First, as a note.  Over the years I have installed a LOT of CB equipment in 
vehicles, both before I had my Ham license and when I worked in a CB shop 
after getting my license.  But I haven't installed much VHF/UHF gear.  So, 
in general I know how to do a 'quality" installation (and what to avoid 
doing).  I want this to be a "one time shot", not a work in progress.

I'm considering installing a rig, probably a 2M/440 dual bander in my 2005 
Ford F-150XLT "Super Crewcab" (4 large doors, seats 6).  So anyway, this is 
the first vehicle that I've had in more years than I can remember that 
'really' has enough room to do a decent radio installation of any kind.  The 
ceiling mounted rig in my '86 Chevy C10 was a "head banger".  It is also the 
first time in my life I've had a vehicle this nice and I don't want to start 
"punching holes".  Besides, I don't want to become a homicide victim by 
angering my XYL <grin>.  Though due to it's size, it's unlikely that she'll 
drive the vehicle much if any.

I would like to hear of any experiences, good or bad that people have had 
installing radios in a similar Ford vehicle.

Here's some ideas that I have in mind.

1.  Some sort of dual band rig with the radio proper mounted either behind 
or under the rear seat.

2.  The control head mounted in one of the following locations.

    A.  On the face of the lower consol section beneath the dash (there is 
even a pull out "cup holder" located there that may be taken out and the 
space used). This is 'probably' the best choice.

    B.  The top of the large fold-down center armrest/storage bin (split 
40-20-40 seat). This location may be in the way of arms trying to use the 
armrest and require taking the eyes off the road (not a good safety 
feature).

    C.  Possibly on TOP of the dash as there is a very large flat area there 
with lots of room for CD's etc.  But this would be exposed to the sun in 
VERY hot Central California, probably NOT a good idea.

3.  Antenna.  Even though they lose some efficiency, MOST LIKELY a glass 
mount one, either in the top center of the windshield OR top Center of the 
rear window. Is there much difference in the two locations (remember, this 
crewcab has a LOT of roof area)?

Now the REAL questions.
1. Does anybody here know of any RFI issues with the 2005 F-150 (4.6L V8)? 
Either from the engine to the radio, or from the radio affecting engine 
performance?  Again, we're talking 2M/440 here.

2.  What if any dual band (or even single band) radios with detachable 
control panels should I avoid like the plague? Ones with know reliability 
problems, keep in mind I'll probably be trying to get one used.


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73 de Phil,  KO6BB
DX begins at the noise floor!

THE BEACONEER'S LAIR:  http://www.geocities.com/ko6bb/
QSL GALLERY: http://photobucket.com/albums/y123/KO6BB/
Merced, Central California,    37.3N  120.48W  CM97sh

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