HAM Radio install LR3

[Globalguy5]

I'm considering installing a HAM radio detachable faceplate / control head in the upper glove box of a 2008 LR3 HSE. I like the idea of it being out of site when not in use. I dont want a cup holder mount or something I need to assemble and disassemble. The glove box would have to be opened to see the lcd screen. Once the frequencies are programmed could I do most of the button pushing on a mic with a keypad? How much button pushing is actually done out on the trail? Would heat be an issue having the control head in a closed glove box? The only other mounting location I'm considering is above the rearview mirror. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.

Hunter

 

[nwoods]

I mounted the control unit below the seat, on a thin plate, with a remote speaker also mounted to the plate. Whole thing was easily removable. I mounted the faceplate in the small cubby below the ash tray thingie. This picture does not show it installed, but it does show where I had it:

 

[unseenone]

Where you mounting your antennas. That was quite a struggle when I did it. I finally came up with two solutions. It is also important to note that the roof rail on the LR3 is NOT grounded. If it is helpful for you, i've got some pictures of my install if it helps. http://www.disco3.co.uk/gallery/index.php?cat=11463

 

[nwoods]

I had my antenna mounted on a clamp bracket that fitted over the edge of the rear hatch. Something like this:
http://www.diamondantenna.net/k400.html

 

[unseenone]

How steady is it, how does it work when you open the back up? I found a stainless rear license plate mount, but it seems to low for the ham setup. I definitely need to protect the ATAS120, it is not meant to take a beating. The biggest issue I see with any mounting solution is how high it ends up, even on some secondary roads I can get into the tree limbs if not careful.

 

[nwoods]

I only play with 2 meter, so my antenna is relatively short. Here is a photo of the antenna installed:

 

[JimBiram]

I installed my Anytone dual band by separating the head unit from the base. The base is installed under the right rear passenger seat.



I removed the rubber liner from the junk collector in the center console, and using the existing holes, was able to fish the cable down the console. I used velcro tape to mount the control head, since it does have to be removable in case the parking brake has to manually be released.

The mic is attached to the dashboard with velcro as well, since I didn't want to leave permanent holes in the dashboard.

My antenna, which isn't shown is a 24" mag mount, which does stick pretty well to the strip of metal immediately behind the glass roof, near the sat antenna. The wire routes over to the same side, and then passes into the vehicle, running along the edge of the tail gate area, covered by the rubber floor mat. Having the shorter antenna does give up a little range, but it doesn't get hit by trees as much, and it allows me to lay it flat when I open my rooftop tent.

 

[Globalguy5]

Thanks to everyone who responded. The pictures really help. I will post pictures and a write up of my install.