Soldering CB cable ends

[grnd93]

Plan on installing the CB in my TJ soon. My plan is to make an antenna mount to bolt in place of the spare tire carrier on the tailgate and run the cable through the grommet where the 3rd brake light wiring ran. To do this I have to cut an end off the antenna cable and solder a new one on. I picked up the cable, stud mount and replacement end today. Anybody have any tips to make this go easier for me?

[87slosohc]

Here's a how to

http://www.stu-offroad.com/misc/rfconn.htm

[grnd93]

Originally Posted by 87slosohc

Here's a how to

http://www.stu-offroad.com/misc/rfconn.htm

Thanks, found that with my googlefu (after posting here).

I just gotta get a chunk of angle iron to make the mount and I'll be giving it a shot.

[machinisttx]

I'd suggest trying to find compression style or crimp style PL 259 connectors instead of solder type. http://www.eham.net/articles/19257

I've soldered on N type connectors and it's a little tricky to get enough heat without getting so much as to melt the coax and short from the center conductor to the outer shield. Crimp and compression fittings are much faster and easier to work with. Also, be sure to buy the right size for the coax you're using. You may have to buy a reducer sleeve as well.

[grnd93]

Originally Posted by machinisttx

I'd suggest trying to find compression style or crimp style PL 259 connectors instead of solder type. http://www.eham.net/articles/19257

I've soldered on N type connectors and it's a little tricky to get enough heat without getting so much as to melt the coax and short from the center conductor to the outer shield. Crimp and compression fittings are much faster and easier to work with. Also, be sure to buy the right size for the coax you're using. You may have to buy a reducer sleeve as well.

Any signal loss or any thing with the crimp on?

[pepe]

Check your cable end, most have a smaller end on the cable that screws into a larger end that fits on your CB.

[grnd93]

Reading about the crimp on end...the ends are cheap but the crimped is pricey. I do have a radio shop a few miles from me, maybe I'll run the cable then drive it over there and have them put the end on. I can have them adjust my SWR while they're at it.

[machinisttx]

Originally Posted by grnd93

Any signal loss or any thing with the crimp on?

With crappy connectors or a bad crimp, probably. With good connectors and a good crimp there shouldn't be any difference between them and a soldered connection(except the amount of work). Read more on the eham site and you'll probably find out more than you wanted to know about coax cable and connectors.

A type "N' connector is weatherproof and preferable to the standard PL 259, but I'm not sure if any CB antennas are made for them.