[Mobile-Portable] Installation in 2005 Ford F-150 Crewcab?

[Phil Atchley]

Hi All,

This was first posted to the Icom list and I was referred to this list.

I've just purchased a used 2005 Ford F-150 Super Crewcab (the large 4 door 
model).  The engine is the 4.6L V8 with 4 speed overdrive automatic, and I'm 
considering putting a radio in it 8^)

First, as a note.  Over the past 30 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 have only installed a couple 2M 
rigs (I usually relied on an HT and mag-mount) .  So,  in general I know how 
to do a 'quality' installation (and what to avoid doing).  But I understand 
the new vehicles are more sensitive to RFI.   I want this to be a "one time 
shot", not a work in progress.

I'm considering probably installing a 2M/440 dual bander in the truck.  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 Yaesu 2M rig in my '86 Chevy C10 was a real "head banger". 
It is also the first time in my life I've had a vehicle this nice and I 
would rather not start "punching holes", though I will if it's necessary.

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.  Not sure what model yet.

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.

        A.  Is there much difference in the two locations (remember, this 
crewcab has a LOT of roof area)?

        B.  This vehicle has factory dark tinted  rear/side windows and 
factory tinted windshield.  I was told this may affect a "glass mount" 
antenna, in which case I'd punch the hole in the roof.  Comments?

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 about 2M/440 in the 50-70 Watt class.

2.  What, if any, dual band (or even single band) radios with detachable 
control panels should I avoid like the plague? Ones with known 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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