Here's the configuration * Wilson 2000 10" Shaft * Firestick Quick Disconnect * Wilson RG-8 Coax - 18' * Cobra 29 LX - Peaked and Tuned and 1 watt Dead Key for use with RM Italy KW 203-P (Mods and tuning done by Atlantic Coast Communications Inc.) * RM Italy KW 203-P (Blue) * Workman 103 SWR Meter with 3' RG-8 jumper. When I use the standard whip, the SWR is way high (5s and 7s). When I use a whip that's about 18" inches shorter, I can't get the SWR meter to calibrate. I also sometimes get a "CB Antenna Warning" on the radio. I think my ground is good as there are straps going to the perch mount. I think my coax is good as it was used in my old truck. I've watched various YouTube videos and I've read and am following the printed instructions for the SWR meter. Suggestions?
That antenna should have I think a 5 foot whip right? If so use that one. Make sure the base of the antenna is grounded. Make sure it has metal underneath the antenna, and not over it. Never "think" your coax and grounds are good....they either are or they aren't. Also when you do your SWR check, don't have the amps on. Leave them off. The harmonics they throw off can make the SWR meter inaccurate. Just use the standard wattage out of the rear of the radio. Try these and let us know what happens.
I remounted the antenna and rerouted the RG-8X and am no longer getting the "CB Antenna Warning" on the radio. The radio's built in meter shows sub 1.5 on 1, 20 and 40. I don't know how to make sure the ground is good. As I stated there are grounding straps going to the perch mount. Is there a way to verify ground with limited tools? When I was initially checking the SWR, I didn't have the amp in the loop at all, my thinking being that using the loop of coax between the amp and the radio to connect the meter would keep me from adding another 3' loop of cable into the system that will not be present when I remove the SWR meter. Do I need to have the amp in the loop too? If so, which side of the amp do I need the meter? In other words is it Ant to Amp to Meter to Radio, Or Ant to Meter to Amp to Radio? Or does it matter? I'll recheck the SWR with the external meter tonight and see what it says.
