Cb Radio Installation In 560

TearDragger

Junior Ranger
Donating Member
I had Camp Inn install a compact Cobra 75WXST radio in our new 560 Ultra (about $120). I think they did a great job! It takes up very little room, if at all in the right hand galley cupboard. The antenna mount was a discussion, as to what would be the best "hard mount" and provide the best RF gain. We went with a heavy duty ball mount with spring and a 3' firestick antenna, but the mount can take a variety of antennas.

Why do this? We'll I don't have a HAM license for starters, and this gives us several benefits and capabilities. We also put an identical CB in our Tow Vehicle with a mag mount whip antenna.
  1. This lets us communicate between camp and the TV if one of us, say needs to run back to a near by camp store. Can't assume cellular coverage anywhere we camp. Sort of... "don't forget to get that extra bag of ice, firewood, etc..."
  2. This CB also gets NOAA weather channels, allowing us to get current and accurate weather conditions and forecast for our immediate area. NOAA broadcast on specific AM frequencies throughout the US and Canada. There wasn't anywhere we weren't able to get weather.
  3. Between the TV and the Camp Inn radios, we are able to communicate with our friends both on the road and camping area. Again, don't assume cell coverage! It's nice if your friend drives ahead and warns you of difficult turn around spots, or just on the road communications.
Here a few pictures of the installation.

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Wow! The radio is that metal box about half the size of a box of kitchen matches?!?

Yes. The box mounted inside cabinet is really just a junction for power and antenna. The whole radio is actually in hand unit, which can be disconnected and put in glove box, in case of tow vehicle.
 
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