[VAL] CB antenna location on Airstream

[Terry Tyler <tylerbears@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hi Tom,

On five different Airstreams, I've mounted the CB antenna on the side 
of the refrigerator vent closest to the air conditioner.

On my first installation, there was no screen under the vent so the 
antenna wire was dropped directly down the chimney and snaked inside to 
a cabinet wall where the CB itself was attached.

One time when there was a screen,  I lifted the screen along the side, 
slipped the wire down the chimney and re-secured the screen with caulk.

Another time I didn't disturb the screen but drilled a hole in the 
chimney extension above the roof  line and slipped the wire down the 
chimney.

Each time, I've used an antenna with a base load and spring. This is to 
maximize flexibility of the antenna itself and hopefully avoid any an 
errant tree limb snapping off the antenna.  Been there, done that - 
learned my lesson.

I'm about ready to install an antenna on our 1989 Airstream. Currently, 
I'm using a "Hidden Ears" antenna which is okay for nearby transmission 
and reception, but not for long distance. I have not found a base load 
antenna with a spring. In the past every Radio Shack had a dozen 
hanging on the wall. If you find one, I hope you'll rattle my cage.

As for the adapter which holds the antenna base to the refrigerator 
vent, I've used scrap aluminum and shaped it to fit. One time, I 
scavengered the connector from a no longer used fold-down CB antenna. 
Another time, I reshaped the connector that came with the antenna.

A whip antenna on the rear bumper was used once, but I decided the 
signal diameter was too lopsided. The center of the roof location is 
noticeably more satisfactory for my needs.

You didn't ask, but I'd suggest buying a CB with weather channels 
included. These are routinely available at truck stops like Flying J 
for less than $100 and look to me like they have more features than the 
ones at Radio Shack. Also, most truckers will freely offer their 
opinions about which brands are most dependable - AND where to find a 
technician who can maximize the radio's performance (perhaps in 
non-traditional ways).

Also, I'd suggest buying a separate weather radio (Radio Shack) with a 
"sliding tuner" for those occasions where NONE of the fixed signals on 
the CB provide reception in your location.  Been there, done that - and 
learned my lesson.

Lastly, I've seen owners who put a remote speaker near their map table. 
Another owner put the speaker in his bathroom so he could hear it while 
shaving.

Terry