WTB, CB radio

[garrett83]

I'm looking for a decent CB radio for sale. I would like to get my hands on one prior to socal fest.
Thanks,
Garrett

 

[GrimmJeeper]

i have one that recieves only, for some reason it won't let you transmit... but it recieves fine. if all else fails you can have it for free.

 

[crazyjim]

I've got a Uniden 520xl and a Lil' Wil Antenna I may be willing to part with.

 

[garrett83]

I'm def loking for something that works both ways, but thanks.

What's the range on that Uniden Crazyjim?

 

[Johnnie Walker]

I'm def loking for something that works both ways, but thanks.
Thats what she said..
What's the range on that Uniden Crazyjim?

If all else fails can be had on amazon new for 40$ish or less (or more, ha.) depending on model. Have you checked your local C-list?

 

[garrett83]

I'm just starting my search, so I haven't looked through clist yet, I'm looking for something that has decent range, somthing that can transmit and receive from atleast 5 to 10 miles away...

I've been stranded in the past with a unit that only received if you were in line of site... I really don want that again!!

Oh, and If the wife ever gets a jeep, I'll be contacting grimm for that one way radio!

 

[GrimmJeeper]

if you want distance get your HAM license, most CB's are line of sight only especially if you are in canyons or heavily wooded areas. they work great on the highway because there is nothing to obstruct the signal, but CB's are really a bad choice for long distance offroad communication.

 

[garrett83]

Had no idea, knowing that I'll just go pick up a unit from a flying J or something like that.

Thanks

 

[2stix]

the FCC has regulated the output wattage of all CB radios for many years now. the unit itself is not what gives the "distance" of receivers as much as the antenna does. and a tuned antenna is the key to both sending and receiving. yes there are some radios that will allow minor frequency tuning between channels, but if you are going that route, get your Ham lic. and really get out there. find a cheap (they all are now days) radio and a good antenna, then have it tuned. a good antenna cable will make a big difference also.

 

[garrett83]

Thank you 2stix, I am seeing that most units are pretty reasonable. Any suggestion for a place that sells good antennas?

About 10 years ago I used to ride trals with a group of guys and a few were truckers that would use the same equipment they used in their trucks. When we would go to calico or gorman, they could hear the truckers on the highway BSing with each other... guess maybe things are different now...

 

[kayle666]

15 years ago here in town there used to be a huge CB trend about 50+ people always on. i got out of cbs back then and now theres no-one. one thing i noticed is that with the increase in radio traffic across the airwaves signal has been hampered big time since 97
ham seems to be the best way to go now.

 

[2stix]

if you could talk everyone that 4 wheels to switch over to high frequency (ham) then it would definitely be the way to go. but unless the guys you wheel with are ham, your still not talking to anyone that can help you. that is one of the reasons CB is still alive. most 4 wheelers use them. having BOTH is the way to go.

garrett83- because cb has not been much of a seller these days, the only place that really carries them are truck stops (flyin J) or online. try looking up electronics stores in your area and give them a call. seems the firestick is one of the most popular antennas these days. also get a good cable. if you need a tuner i have one you can borrow.

 

[kayle666]

2stix isnt there a hybrid ham/cb model?

also walmart target and radio shack still keep cbs in stock

 

[drsaabaru]

Here's a cheap one:

http://www.overstock.com/Electronic...channel-Compact-CB-Radio/3386229/product.html

It's also small, so it's easy to install in an XJ.

 

[garrett83]

Can't beat 30 bucks!! I've heard a lot of good things about overstock.com but have never used them.

I found a ham lic class that is held locally. I just missed their first session, they have a four session deal, then its a $15 test and you've got your technician lic. I'm going to end up going that route, but for now I'm going to order that unit from overstock, thanks guys.

 

[2stix]

post up the info on the Ham classes. others may be interested.

 

[SC Rednek]

I'd suggest getting a CB first, they're cheap, and a much higher percentage of offroaders have them. Then if you want a 2 meter ham radio later there's no law against having two radios in your jeep.

And I may be alone in this opinion, but I think whip style antennas are the way to go over rigid fiberglass. They don't break when you smack them on trees or garage doors. I'd also avoid mounting them on the side of the jeep, they can snag on rocks and trees and cause a decent amount of damage.

 

[SC Rednek]

And if you haven't found a radio by SoCal fest I have one of those $40 Walmart Cobra's, I'll give it to you at SoCal fest for $20. It was working when I took it out of the jeep, I can plug it in and check. I don't have any extra antennas laying around though.

 

[GrimmJeeper]

I'd suggest getting a CB first, they're cheap, and a much higher percentage of offroaders have them. Then if you want a 2 meter ham radio later there's no law against having two radios in your jeep.

I agree with this 100%

the only reason I brought up HAM in the first place is you mentioned range beyond line of sight. it's still useful to be able to badger the person in front of you on the trail over the CB for getting stuck on an easy obstacle

 

[crazyjim]

Just an FYI, the 510 doesn't have a Gain adjustment. Try to spend a bit more for the 520 and a lil wil antenna, both Andy and I ran these and they worked perfectly when others fell short..