satalite radio antenna

Discussion in 'Trucking Electronics, Gadgets and Software Forum' started by MacgyverIt, Feb 12, 2013.

  1. MacgyverIt

    MacgyverIt Light Load Member

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    3
    Dec 23, 2011
    Clayton,Ohio
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    Can u get by with the smaller "pad" type antenna like a car has or is it better to pay more for the larger foot tall ones that attach to the mirror
     
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  3. Balakov100

    Balakov100 Road Train Member

    3,937
    2,637
    May 10, 2012
    Temple, TX
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    Small one works ok normally.
    Mirror Bracket is usually a good place for it.
     
  4. gator21

    gator21 Light Load Member

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    Dec 4, 2011
    Norwich NY
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    i havent had one of those larger ones but friends tell me thy work ok ,until you find a low branch that breaks it off. i use the small mag mnt "pad".had to attach a metal plate for it to stick to ot top of my headrack.works great.hardest part is keeping the wire from breaking in half.
     
  5. ghettochild

    ghettochild Medium Load Member

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    Jan 13, 2012
    atlanta,ga
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    The only problem I had is when im in a valley
     
  6. Jakethebrake99

    Jakethebrake99 Light Load Member

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    Dec 16, 2011
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    I have used the small one for over 10 years with no reception issues. I have it zip tied to the top of the mirror bracket on the passenger side. I have had to replace it once because the wire broke off.
     
  7. MacgyverIt

    MacgyverIt Light Load Member

    59
    3
    Dec 23, 2011
    Clayton,Ohio
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    Thanks everyone. I have seen a lot of trucks with the larger one so I was thinking this might be a must have. I am new to the whole sat. radio thing but got hooked when my wife's Jeep came with 1yr. on it. I thought it would be great in the truck since I am not in any radio towers shot for more than an hour.
    Thanks again
     
  8. MsJamie

    MsJamie Road Train Member

    I'd get whichever antenna up as high as you can; if you can clear the cab of the truck, so much the better.

    If you get up north (say, into Canada, eh), with XM, the satellite is about 30 degrees above the horizon to the south. Heading eastbound with an antenna right on the driver's mirror bracket, you may not have satellite radio available.

    I'd consider using a "patch" antenna (the automotive kind) mounted to the top center of the sleeper. If it's fiberglass, a blob of RTV silicone should hold it just fine.
     
  9. sdaniel

    sdaniel Road Train Member

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    4,420
    Sep 7, 2011
    Pelham N.C.
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    I made a tall one out of my small mag mount ant. Used a old CB ant bracket , removed the part the ant screwed in to and bought a long section of threaded rod and couple of nuts and washers. Run the rod through the bracket with washer and nut on each side to clamp it down . Then on the other end just need a flat piece of steel just large enough for the ant to sit on . Drill hole for rod to run through , more nuts nd washers to lock it down. Tape wire to the rod. Made out of solid steel , not easy to break. Hope this helps.
     
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