Ian96XJ

I'm looking for a spot to mount a ham radio antenna (2m/70cm). I don't really want to do a hood mount, but I noticed an area right behind the factory radio antenna and next to the cowl that looks like it could come off somehow. (If I did the attached picture correctly, you can see what I'm talking about.)

What is under there? Would I be able to mount an antenna there? If so, how do I get to it? I'm guessing remove the cowl vent and then maybe I'll see how it's secured. But I figured I'd ask here first since I'm away for the holiday and the Jeep's back home. Thanks!



PS. Not my Jeep. Just selected a random pic for the example. Just thought I should mention that.

Ian96XJ

Really? Nobody knows? Here's a shot of my Jeep, with the opposite side panel circled. I guess I could install on this side, too, if it'll fit.

eugnton

how big is the antenna? why could you not mount on your bumper? my last jeep I put a 4 foot antenna on my rear bumper.

mudderx

I believe that under the cowl is more sheet metal (top of firewall), then a buttload of wiring. Ive seen guys mount KC's there so as long as your carefull you should be fine...

Ian96XJ

A ham radio antenna isn't as big or hefty as a CB antenna. Plus, mounting antennas on bumpers doesn't do you any favors as far as effectiveness. Radio wave propagation is pretty poor. The best place for a ham antenna (if you have a rack) is in the middle of the hood, but that would be kinda stupid for all sorts of reasons!

prerunner1982

Just curious, why not mount it to the roof?

Ian96XJ

Hmmm...I wonder if those little panels pop off after you take off the cowl vents? Or at least, see how they're secured. I'd hate to think I had to take off the fender, too. That'd be a deal breaker...

prerunner1982

And unfortunately I can't see the picture... I am at work so it appears to be block.

Gee oh Dee

There should just be the wiring for your wipers, and the brackets and arms that run them.

Remove your wiper blades, remove the screws, and it'll lift right up.

Ian96XJ

I plan to put a roof rack up there eventually. Roof racks can really mess with the radio waves. They make a poor ground plane.

Gee oh Dee

I don't think they do.

I took the Wrangler today, otherwise I would just go take pics of mine.

Ian96XJ

You're talking about the metal panel right next to the plastic cowl vents, right? Hope it's as easy as that. I'll check it out when I get back home from T-Day vacation.

Gee oh Dee

Pretty sure the metal panels need to be cut.

cruiser54

Remove the plastic inner fender and have a look-see.Should work just fine.

Gee oh Dee

I don't think the inner fender exposes what he's looking at.

At least mine doesn't, and mine is gone.