It's Extremely Easy to Install a Mobile GMRS Radio
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- čas přidán 19. 06. 2024
- There are pros and cons to having a handheld GMRS radio vs a hard mounted and wired mobile radio. In this video I talk about the benefits and disadvantages and show you how I installed a Midland Microbilie GMRS radio in my Ford Bronco.
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A tip on the double sided tape in a vehicle. If you are using 3M VHB tape there are many different varieties for different purposes. You want to make sure you get a heat resistant version. Otherwise on a hot day in the summer the tape will fail. Learned this one the hard way. You want 3M VHB 4991 it's gray in color it is what is on the go pro mounts and it works great. Some of the other variations will fall right off as soon as it gets hot.
THANKS for this tip! We live in San Antonio and it gets very hot here! I just received my GMRS license (Callsign: WSAG549) so I’m in the market for both HH and mobile GMRS radios, which is what brought me here! Cheers, 73! KG1USA - USN, Radioman, Retired.
Well made video. To avoid fire, make sure you put a fuse (and maybe also a breaker) on the electrical wires very close to the battery. If the wiring gets pinched or the insulation rubs through the fuse will cut the power. I saw another overland CZcamsr burn up his off-road rig because he fused inside the passenger area of his vehicle. He even used his fire extinguisher. He was left stranded in the middle of nowhere.
And food for thought: A 50 watt GMRS radio gets REALLY HOT with extended talking, so it should be mounted in a well ventilated location.
The downside to running all your accessories directly to the battery is that it soon becomes a rat's nest. An alternative, with no downsides, is to install positive and negative bus bars. Doing that requires that you to run only ONE positive (fused to max expected combined load) and ONE negative wire (min 8AWG for each) to the bus bar. Now you have multiple terminals to which to add accessory power as needed and a good ground is always assured. Be sure to fuse the power wire to the accessory. Using auto-loom, you can make your wiring very neat. Amazon has a complete selection. Another trick I use is to color code the power wires. Having several red power wires can make it difficult to troubleshoot. However, by using different colored heat shrink or electrical tape to mark each end of the wire(and at about 2 foot intervals) it is easy to trace them when needed. The same can be done for the ground wires. The only accessory I ever wire directly to the battery is a winch. I use welding lead cable for that and color code them. I also use Anderson plugs to make winch maintenance easier when needed. Another plus of the Anderson plugs is that you can unplug the winch and plug in a set of jumper cables or other high-draw accessory when needed.
40 yr trucker offering my 2 cents here: you can get 'em in a pack, but very short bungee's are nice for hanging the mic from above. The metal hooks on either end are good for affixing one end from somewhere on the ceiling/roof or maybe sun visor (wherever) and then the other end (usually) at the point where the cord spirals. If you get your placement right, it can swing all day long without hitting anything (or anyone!) but it's always within reach, even for on-going conversations. DOT pulled me in at the St George Utah Port of Entry a few years ago for a level 3 safety check. When he opened my door he said, " Oh. I see you have a CB. You're Old School. Don't see CB's very often anymore." No wonder it got so quiet out there! Lol! Thanks for all the great videos. Now... where to put everything in my '59 Willy Wagon!
Me and my wife use the micro mobile and we love it. Whether wheeling or long trips it is a tool we have grown very fond of.
Great video. Been mulling around in my head on how to mount my GMRS in my 2016 Wrangler. This video helped. Thanks.
I just got this same Midland set up with the 6db antenna for both my son and I. Works awesome and the range is way better than I expected. Great set up Brad and clean install👍🏻
So excited to wake up and see another TR video! Amazing way to start the weekend
Cool vid! Thank you! I got my GMRS license a month ago and very happy that I talk with many users from all over the place. I got a Wouxun KG-SX20G 20W and has been serving me well. Reaching repeaters 50+ miles out while indoors. I just ordered the Wouxun UV9 Pro for my HT.
Finally someone who actually shows you the “install” part in a video! I’ve seen countless videos that claim “install” in title but all the show if the unboxing and then the radio turning on and it’s feature!! Thumbs up for you sir!
Glad you enjoyed the video!
Nice clean install. The midlands with the controls on speaker mics open up a lot of options.
Midland has great customer service. Installed the same base unit and it was perfect for 2 months. Starting cutting itself off, sent them an email and proof of date of purchase, they sent me a new one no questions asked! We also have a couple of the handhelds for spotting other drivers.
These are my favorite type of Trail Recon videos!!
Mounting my Midland GMRS is my next project. Thanks for the ideas!
Very timely video. I was just thinking about these options a few days ago. Thanks Brad!
I just used Mountain2metal adapter to install my Midland radio in my 2022 Bronco. It puts it right above the glove box. I also used their antenna mount and Molle panel on passenger side. Worked great.
Great video. Just thought of a con of the hard mounted radio. If your battery dies, your radio dies. Like you have said many times though, carry both. Pretty neat stuff!
Great video, in my Bronco I used an ARB tire plug ream to puncture the same grommet and used the plug pusher to insert the wire. I know I sacrifice an inch or so of wire, but I know it’s water tight.
Great show. Those new broncos are nice
Great video. Both jeeps and Broncos have some limited spaces for radios. The good thing about this particular radio is that is completely remote-mounted. Which is just that, “remote”. If you are having trouble finding a place to mount this radio in the spaces you were suggesting in the video, or perhaps you want the radio mounted in a completely different location, you are only limited to how long you can run an Ethernet cable and power cable with a coupler on the microphone end to connect the male end of the microphone connector. All my radios in my Jeep are mounted under the my cargo area in my Jeep. Tucked away, and all you see is the control head in the cab area. I’m not a fan of mounting a radio on the side near the driver’s legs. Locations as to where you can mount this radio are endless with just a few feet of power cable and an extended Ethernet cable and coupler to extend from the radio’s physical location to the microphone.
Nice 👍. I believe S. Cal. has a linked GMRS repeater network which can extend the range of your comms. For those willing to study for the Ham Tech exam , the Winsystem ( UHF/VHF) allows you to link to a 100+ repeaters including international coverage. 73!
Well done, will be saving this for future reference.
Very helpful video! Thanks!
I used to use only handhelds before I realized the convenience of a mounted radio. In my opinion mounted is the only way to go. I use Midland MXT400s in the Jeeps, and have a few handheld GMRS radios I can grab when getting out and still want comms.
Nicely done, my fellow military retiree. Appreciate your guidance and tips!
Just put the midland in my jeep ❤️ still learning the repeaters in my area
I have the same gmrs and I love it
Great quality video, install, and presentation. Enjoy that 275 and Bronco!
Thank you!
Nice, what timing! I have two midland units that just showed up yesterday for the Jeep’s. I’m switching from cb to gmrs 👍
Nicely done thanks for your information sir
Got my GMRS license (that is nothing difficult at all as you just fill out an online form, the Feds just want their fee $$$) a while ago and passed the FCC test for my HAM license yesterday. Now if only I could get my dang BRONCO!!! I'm probably going to follow your lead and install the radios in my old Raptor in the meantime. Thanks for the video!
The Gromit hole is for the clutch - Nice video
Thank you for another great video. Very informative (as always). Greetings from UAE ;)
Nice video Brad! Loving the Bronco content
Cool setup. In the past, when I couldn't get through a firewall, I've gone through the floor and along the frame to the engine compartment/ battery. Use grommets and spiral wire wraps to protect the cable. Maybe not the best approach, but the floor is thinner than the firewall.
Anytime I run wiring under a vehicle or trailer, I use Flex Aluminum conduit. Paranoid maybe but I've had wires damaged or cut more than once even when running though plastic wire loom.
Great video as always. You might want to rethink the suggestion about modifying the power wire with a cigarette lighter plug, a 50-watt unit draws a ton of power. That would work for 20 watts but not 50 watts.
@nd suggestion, you need a bigger USN emblem for the garage wall, Go Navy!
Nice install, Brad
Thanks for the great content HMCM!
Don't know if anyone else has heard anything, but here(Idaho) they are asking all ham radio operators to monitor for any transmission coming out of Tonga. Not sure who you'd report to but may be something to keep an ear out. Prayers and hope for the people there.
Good timing I just got the same Midland to put in my JK
Have the Micro now... BUT upgrading to the Icom 2730A. You should look into this. It's 2m/440/GMRS/MURS. Best of both worlds! Had part is finding the right antenna vs SWRs...
Hey Brad it's a timely video for me got GMRS license yesterday...
Love the antenna mount, it really works great for my ham antenna. Until next time.... Travel Safe.
Very timely! I’m struggling to decide a final position for a Yaesu 400 HAM radio and hadn’t considered the glove box. Right now I’ve been trying to use double sided tape to the side of the center console but it keeps falling off. I’m waiting on the JCR molle panels to come in to really attack the problem again. That midland integrating everything into the microphone is quite clutch
What about heat build up in the glove box?
Thanks, I am very new to this. Your video helps. Also, see your Masterchief plaque. Go Navy!
Sweet install!
Great video. Thank you
I'm using a comet ca2x4srnmo antenna with the optional spring and man is it great with my btech GMRS50x1 radio.
Nice and clean I like it.
Great video (as always Brad). Good overview of communication options available for going on adventures. 73 KK7BDW (Las Vegas, NV).
Some handhelds have adaptors the connect them to the vehicles battery and to an external antenna, and also have handheld like the mounted ones.
good video, thanks for not overcomplicating it like so many people do! I'm curious how the double sided tape has held up in the glovebox - also, how' the mic mount working out now that it's been a while?
thank you for the video....
You could use the super velcro used to mount toll road transponders to windshields.
Very nice setup. My only concern is whether or not the passenger airbag could throw the control unit into the driver when deployed? Hopefully an unlikely scenario.
Use 3M adhesion promoter when using the double-sided tape. It makes a HUGE difference on how well it sticks.
Thank you!
Been told this but first time i actually used it i was shocked i use promoter on almost all attachments now were a glue is used
My double sided 3m tape came unglued from my truck sitting in the sun I'll have to retry with the adhesive promoter
ordering some now, did not know this existed! THANKS!!
Great video Brad! You made it look so easy that I'll likely go this route very soon after I receive my 2dr 7MT Badlands!
Well done, thank you. 👍✌️
Thank you too!
I purchased and installed this radio. I like your approach and essentially copied what you did. The issues I ran into was the radio in the glovebox lasted about two days and fell off. The same happened with the mic mount (although I installed mine above the Start button just behind the steering wheel. I am considering drilling a couple of holes in the side of the glovebox (where I tried using automotive double-sided tape) and installing a couple of small screws/nuts to secure the radio mount.
Has your installation held up? PS: Great radio and I love it being installed.
My radio came with a round metal plate with 3m tape, that way the magnetic antenna would stick. Also the antenna base was a lot more small then the one you showed.
Thanks Brad... FCC site is not super intuitive but I'm going to try and get the license.
Great video brad as usual.
I have a question on this model midland radio from your experience with the MXT275 how much range would you say you get out of it?
Original I was only looking into this to have a clean reliable way to talk to a spotter while backing in my camper but now I'm thinking about putting a mobile unit in the camper as well so we have a second option to communicate while someone is hiking or whatever. I've always been into radios but never wanted to go through the process of getting my ham license. This seems way more obtainable for me.
Amazing video. I learned a lot. Question about the antenna. Will that hit gmrs repeaters?
Thanks for the video! I am going to use this when I am ready to install a radio. Great size. Unfortunately, my firewall grommet is occupied by clutch plumbing. I know of one other place though.
What is it
@@theCoronabronco there is a factory-provided rubber pass through just above the main harness on the driver’s side. It’s pretty thick rubber, but it works.
I have a question.. do you need to tune your antenna? I bought one that's about the same length as my stereo antenna. Keep up the videos man... we want more!
I really like the Nite Ize Steelie mount. Nice secure mount and a strong magnet to allow you to place your device on any steel surface. Worth checking out.
U can also stick magnet plate to your phone casing and then just stick it to the mount..that way,you dont have to buy those big phone holder
Great install. I always try to seperate my radio power from my antenna wire just to make sure there is no interferance between them.
Hey there. Perfect video. Waiting on the exact radio to come in. I also plan on hard wiring it. Where did you get the power wire with the inline fuse? Any certaint gauge or fuse size? Any help would be awesome, thanks.
Hey Brad! Great video! I was just wondering if the antenna and mount hold up after going thru the car wash multiple times? Thanx!
Nice video. Did you custom make the power/ground wire with fuses? Are did you purchase a ready made one? Looking for something already made.
Great video. Curious if there is space behind he glove box when it is opened fully to mount the base unit? I have a Bronco and didn't know the glove box even did that!
I've been watching your videos for years, evolving from the JK to the JL and now a Bronco. The antenna mount used here might be "fine" but the coaxial cable leaves a ton to be desired. the RG174 loses a lot of signal, especially at higher frequencies, like UHF, which GMRS uses. CB would likely work fine in this arrangement however.
Thank You
I'm fairly certain those antenna work off a ground plane. So the a-pillar probably won't affect much since it's using the hood as a ground plane.
Brad, thank you for install video. I probably overlooked it but can you drop the link for the antenna hood mount? Thanks
Cool video, enjoyable! Are you going to do one for the Jeep as well (please)?
GMRS is making strides. I would have opted for the new Midland MXT550 which is the same concept of mic controls, but gives you 50W out plus weather channels
Thank you Master Chief!!! KI4ODF
Really nice vid. What frequency is GMRS using? I`m from Sweden so i dont know if we have another system.
👍 good stuff
Hi Brad, I'm in the market in getting a GMRS Midland radio from the MXT lineup, was either thinking of the MXT275 or MXT575 and wanted to know if you knew which midland handheld walkie talkie is compatible with the hard mounted device mentioned above?
Great video! I just purchased one but how did you run the antenna wire? I was trying to figure out a way to go strait to the glove box but don’t see a route. What am I missing?
where did you get the 50 State travel map you have on the house door to your garage? I like it.
My biggest concern with putting it inside the console or glovebox would be overheating. Not to mention both of those locations are pretty well used for storage already.
hey brad, curious if the magnet adhesive stayed stuck onto the mic? I used the same kit you did and it came unglued in about a day or so
How's the magnetic handset mount working out for you a year later? Seems like a great spot, thinking about using the same method. Thanks for the video!
I just noticed... Is that Pyromania? I can definitely see 1984. You ol' rocker, you.
Hey Brad very informative video as usual. Wondered why you chose that particular antenna instead of a taller one that should perform better? Also I've noticed many Jeep owners mount their antennas on the front bumper. Any thoughts on that? Again thanks, I enjoy your, from the heart, enthusiasm.
Taller antennas are not necessarily better, it all depends on the antenna design, location on the vehicle and what your coverage area needs to be. As for bumper mounting...personally, I am not a fan. Bumpers, be design, are to be bumped, and protect the vehicle occupants. If I am out and about, I don't want the business end of my communications gear to be hanging out in the most vulnerable location, especially if it may by my means to call for help. It is also hard to get cables routed to a bumper in a way that thy are safe and secure. Bumpers should be free of wires in case they are needed for creative rigging and recovery points. Roof, hoods and rear hatches are usually good places for antennas.
How would you account for the downward curved edge of a Wrangler's hood when using the Diamond antenna mount?
You have to exercise some caution when powering something that transmits through a cigarette lighter. If the radio draws more power on transmit than the lighter plug is able to handle, you risk overheating the wires that power it and potentially starting a fire. This may not be an issue with a GMRS radio that only puts out 15 watts, but if your goal is to install a 50 watt VHF/UHF ham radio or a something for HF that does 100 watts, directly to the battery, with the power cable that comes with the radio is the safest way to go.
Brad, can the handheld radios you show in this video work with the Grms radio you installed in the bronco?
Just thinking that the switches have wiring going around the glove box. You could(if the wire is properly rated) run from the battery with a fused line tie into that wire that goes near the glove box for power instead of running your own wires.
First mistake is it's a Ford, nice video and great information
Brad, where did you get the extra length of wiring for the power? Online or in store?
Hey brad! What cable did you get to route your power to battery. I also have a midland micro mobile and its plugged into the 12v port. Would love to be able to wire it directly to my battery
One reason for wiring that radio to a switch is the fact that the USB charger on it pulls power and will charge a device even when the radio itself is off. That said, I have the older model that doesn't have split tones...don't know if the new one does the same thing.
Hey Brad did the wiring to connect to the battery come with the radio? I have the Midland MXT115 and it comes with the 12V connector.
great video!! one thing that power cable to battery is not included with MXT275VP4 just the cigarette lighter cable? the one on Midland sight is for the MXT575….
thoughts? link for that power cable?
Keep in mind that legal power output is limited based on the channel (frequency) you use. This applies to both FRS and GMRS. In GMRS some channels are for simplex (direct frequency radio-to-radio) operation and others are for repeater operation. In addition, different radio models will have different power output levels. Just about all GMRS handhelds will be limited to 5 watts or less (the same with handheld HAM radios). Hard mount (mobile) units will have more power, up to the 50 watt legal maximum. Lastly, antenna choice can have a huge effect on transmit/receive range. Generally, small stubby antennas provide little to no benefit over the built in antenna on HT (hand-held transceiver) GMRS radios, though that is not always the case. The nice thing about GMRS frequencies is they don't require really long antennas to get up to 6db gain!
This. I keep hearing the FRS/GMRS crowd talking about a lot of TX power without referencing the freq. You'd think guys so careful about following the rules (that they'd give the FCC extra $$ just to use a 5 mhz band of UHF) would be more mindful of allowed power.