Which power source for CB

[Jacket]

Applejack,

I used the "spare" fuse panel spot in the cab to the left of the steering wheel for mine. Its ignition controlled, so you don't have to worry about leaving it on and draining your battery. I know that it is recommended to get clean power from the battery (I did this with my Yaesu), but I've never had issues or complaints about my CB performance - no odd noises or anything like that.

 

[pray4surf]

What about getting power from an aftermarket fuse block?

I've added a BlueSea fuse block in my engine bay and was planning to run power for my Cobra 75 WXST from that. Is this better than the battery in the sense that it is one "step" removed from interference the battery may cause?

I would just tap into my cigarette lighter, but I've already got a maglight and a VHF radio charging off that circuit, do you think it's still okay to use it for the CB? It would take me 5 seconds to tap into the cigarette lighter, but would it be worth the extra time and effort to extend the CB power wires into the engine bay and hit the fuse block?

As far as grounding, would you ground to the frame under the console or tap into the ground for the cigarette lighter?

I'm a wiring and electrical novice, but I'm learning a lot through these various projects and appreciate any and all input.

I've got my CB wired up to my Blue Sea FB. The ground wire for the CB goes back to the FB also.

I also have an extra CB to which I've spliced a cig adapter. I use this as a loaner for anyone in our group (TTORA) that may not have a CB. Coupled with a Li'l Wil mag base antenna and it works just fine...

Rick

 

[Jacket]

Most CB experts will tell you that good antenna ground and tuning is far more important than the radio itself. For the radio, just keep in mind that "dirty" power can affect your radios speaker and transmitter, so if you find that your radio sound isn't as clear as you'd like, it may be where you've chosen to draw power from.

 

[CanuckMariner/Nomad]

i know thats all thats technically required, but i use both anyways. like i said, one of my cb's shorted out on the negative side. it blew the fuse on the positive and melted the negative wire.

for the 50cents it cost for another fuse holder would you really rather burn your truck to the ground???

Agreed and if it makes you more comfortable and less stressful, go for it! Over building can't hurt!