Yaesu FT7800R Mods and Programming Software

[ginericLC]

The 7800 is a durable radio. I wouldn't hesitate to use another for your application. It is what I run in my Cruiser.

 

[CanuckMariner/Nomad]

I realize I am reviving an old thread, but when I saw reference to a Yaesu FT-7800R I couldn't resist. I have two newly acquired 7800R's, one in our DD Ford Escape and the other in our modified Ford Bronco II. We use the BII for backroad day trips and it really takes a beating on rough roads and frequently gets quite dusty. I am wondering what folks think of their 7800's after running them for awhile. Are they holding up to rough-road and/or off-road vibrations? Dust?

I programmed both radios identically using G4HFQ Memory Management software and have approximately 120 frequencies stored in memory. Both radios are bone stock, no modifications. I am considering buying another one for our modified Wrangler and should I follow through that unit will REALLY take a beating - to say nothing of heavy dust and maybe even a few stray water droplets. Do you think the little FT-7800R would hold up? I suppose there are tougher radios like the Icom 2200 and V8000, but I like the idea of commonality in programming and operation. Wish I could find a used one cheap.
Jerry

IMHO the 7800 is a tough little radio that will compare well with any out there. It has tons of memory and more than most, a truly versatile radio. I use ADMS software to program all the repeaters in each state, province, country (each in its own memory bank) I travel through and scan while I travel...keeps me company along the road as FM radio is in and out. I have my iPod classic 80 with over 6000 mp3s in the background.

As for dust, I have had in Death Valley, Baja 1000/500, San Felipe 250 as well as circumnavigate Baja west to east for 6 weeks with no problems. Soon (Sept-Dec) to have it in Barrancas Del Cobre, El Camino Del Diablo, SnT, Mojave, etc.

As for water, like any electronics,it is not water proof, so put the main unit as high as you can where it is unlikely to get snorkeled and put the head unit up high as well. Both of mine are at least 1.5 feet higher than the floor boards of my truck and are mounted inside the cab. So when my feet get wet, I'll start thinking about the electronics in my truck. BTW I do not have computer (not PC) in my truck as it is too old. I have had water up about 2 inches on my windows with no problem of water inside (mind you I am moving forward about 10 kph....my $0.02.

BTW...PM me re Alvord Desert in SE OR.