Super Clean Install of 2M/70cm and CB in '06 Jeep LJ

JeepinBear

Explorer
Hey All,

I've been building up a "Comm Kit" for some time and finally had the opportunity to get it all into the Jeep.



The kit consists of:
  • Tuffy Security Products Overhead Console (only the single compartment is available for 06 LJ)
  • Yaesu FTM-10R Dual Band; Removable water and dust proof faceplate (designed for ATV / Motorcyle use) PERFECT for a Jeep with the top down on a rainy day!
  • Yaesu MH-68ACJ Waterproof DTMF Mic
  • Yaesu MEK-M10 Mic Jack
  • Yaesu MMB-M10; Multi-Angle Stand Bracket for front panel
  • Yaesu MLS-200-M10; Waterproof External Speaker
  • Uniden Pro510XL
  • Motorola Style Mic Clips
  • Larsen NMO 27 Mounts and Springs
  • STD Whip Antennas
Most parts were purchased at GigaParts, Universal-Radio, and a local shop. Installation was VERY PROFESSIONALLY done by Mountainland Communications in Idaho Falls, ID.

The install turned out cleaner than I had hoped. My research led me to believe I could fit both the CB and 2M / 70cm in the Tuffy console...IF we were creative!

Pictures of the install with some supporting information start here:

Yaesu and Uniden's pics:
FTM-10R_thumb.jpg

Main pic of the compartment. Note the control panel is mounted to the left side of the Tuffy Console and is in clear view of the driver. However, it is mounted high enough not to be an obstruction to the driver's view or the function of the visor. The Multi-Angle Bracket was used to mount the control panel.
DSC00823.JPG

This is a close up of the multi-angle bracket mount. The control head can be removed. In fact, the control head on this system can actually be used as the mic. I chose to purchase the Mic Jack and DTMF Mic as an option.
DSC00832.JPG

This next pic shows a close up of the control head with the Mic Jack and DTMF Mic installed. Note the unit is currently set to an FM radio station. This model really is perfect for an ATV or open top vehicle. It also sports an iPod jack, etc. So it is a complete comm / radio system for an ATV.
DSC00822.JPG

This next pic shows the inside of the Console. The Yaesu is mounted to the top of the console in an upside down and backward configuration. This facilitates access to the rear panel for service. The Uniden is mounted normally to grant access to the front panel and to align the speaker on the bottom with the speaker grill on the console. The "excess" cable on the left is the 10' extension from the control head to the main radio body. More on that later. The "excess" cable on the right is the speaker cable; you can see it starting it's run through a channel on the right. More on that next. This mounting configuration helps also to dissipate heat and allows for FULL functionality of the lock on the console.
DSC00826.JPG

This next pic shows the VERY clean mounting of the external speaker. It's location is perfect for an open top Jeep at highway speeds. Again, it does not interfere with vision (rear view) or head room for the driver.
DSC00828.JPG

The 10' extension cable allows the radio control head to be removed from the cab and placed on the hood (complete with Mic). Again, the entire unit is waterproof and dustproof. I can see this function being used when reading large maps on the hood of the vehicle, etc.
DSC00834.JPG

The wiring for power and coax come through the main firewall passthrough and follow an existing loom to the battery and antennas.
DSC00841.JPG

The antennas are each mounted (symmetrically) to the fenders using SS mounting brackets, the Larsen mounts, and Springs (to help alleviate trail damage). The 2M is on the passenger side, and the CB is on the Driver side.
DSC00839.JPG



I am VERY pleased with the outcome and we proved that ALL the system components can indeed me mounted to the overhead console in an UBER-CLEAN fashion.

I hope this helps others on ExPo!
 
Last edited:

JeepinBear

Explorer
We used Motorola style Mic mounts for the mics instead of those that came with the radios. These are more durable. We were able to use the existing hardware for the console as the bottom screws and self-tapping screws for the top locations.
DSC00824.JPG

Here is another shot of the Antenna mounts:
DSC00848.JPG

Also, with the top on the Jeep, most passers-by cannot see any dangling cords or obstructions to indicate the presence.
DSC00850.JPG

Here is another pic of the mounted speaker for the 2M (looking from the bottom up):

DSC00829.JPG

In this next shot you get a good view of the top of the control head. As mentioned before, this control head can be used as the mic, you DO NOT need the DTMF mic for this unit to operate. The PTT button is on the far left.
DSC00846.JPG
 
Last edited:

theksmith

Explorer
Nice and clean!

do you have a link to those mic mounts? and to the mount you are using for the control unit? thanks!
 

JeepinBear

Explorer
I also carry a few more ways to communicate:

  • 2 Motorola Talkabouts - FRS
  • 2 Garmin Rino 530's - FRS / GMRS
  • 1 SP-200 NAV/COM
  • 2 Tin cans connected by a string (max range ~20')
 

gary in ohio

Explorer
Very nice install. Nice use of the tuffy boxes to support everything. I am not a big fan of that little yaesu ftm-10 but for a jeep it make very good sense. The wx resistant nature of the radio is ideal for a drop top vehicle.

About the only change would be protecting that coax cable on the hood antenna, its only time before it snags something.
 

GeoTracker90

Adventurer
Very nicely done. What is your call sign? I'll have to listen out for you on the 2M band. My call sign is KE7ZYM and I'm located a little north of Idaho Falls. Shoot me an email some time, address is KE7ZYM at g mail dot com.

Mike
 

JeepinBear

Explorer
Thanks GeoTracker90.

I am still "listen only" until I take the test so I can play along. I'll let you know what is is as soon as I get it.
 

Borrego60

Rendezvous Conspiracy
clean

I like the job you did looks clean. My brother used a retractable key holder for his mikes and it works great. You do not have to worry about trying to find a mike clip on a bumpy road, Let it go and it goes to the same place every time. Pretty nice system and works great.
 

JeepinBear

Explorer
I like the job you did looks clean. My brother used a retractable key holder for his mikes and it works great. You do not have to worry about trying to find a mike clip on a bumpy road, Let it go and it goes to the same place every time. Pretty nice system and works great.

Great idea!
 

Devinchi

New member

93BLAZER

Explorer
Nice build.

It look great. Nice and clean

Not to hijack but... Im currently working on a Motorola Saber/ Yaesu 8900 install in my 87 K5.

With the tuff box, are you worried about heat build up from the Yeasu? Do you think it will be an issue?

I have read that HAM's can generate a lot of heat. Some have heatsinks while others have fans. I just didn't know if the heat buildup would be an issue in a confined space like that.

I'm doing an install this week in a confined space in my truck and am wondering if heat from the radios will be an issue.

I dont think the Motorola will be an issue. Im worried about the Yeasu.
 

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