$$ for 2nd hand HF

There's a lot of good used units around at most times - IMO, $2000 would be the max that you'd need to pay privately for a good unit with all the latest features. There seems to be safety in staying mainstream re brands for service / support - Barrett 950 / Codan 9323 would be my targets. Re usage - a quick demo will have you up and away - the finer points can be learned as you go. Installation - I think you need to be confidently handy with basic vehicle electrics at least - otherwise have it done by someone who is qualified (and preferably experienced in that field) - "done correctly the first time" is always a assett - if only I'd learn that myself ! :-o.

If you can borrow that unit then I'd go for it. Perhaps the step father could also help with installation etc. 2 grand for three months could buy a lot of fuel.
Why not hire a satphone or HF radio ?

Very easy to install (I installed dozens of Codans for SA government in the early 90's).
- Use a good fuse. The original fuse supplied with a Codan was a ceramic "house" type fuse in a bakelite type housing. And carry a spare 2 or 3 plus some fuse wire.

- Use the correct size power cable

- Keep the coax and the control lead separate to the vehicle wiring as much as possible

- Mount the main unit securely. HF's mount well on cargo barriers (on the cargo side)

- Make sure you trial fit everything before drilling any holes. I used to make spacers and small brackets to pick up the screw holes in the trim. Mount the remote head where The Handbrake will not bash her head or her knees.

Be prepared to have to pull a fair bit of trim out. Be patient, especially if you have a Pajero. I always found the trim to be less forgiving than Nissan and Toyotas. BTW, if running cable under the carpet check them for cracks or nicks in the insulation. Repair with heatshrink if required.

Forgot to say..... several years back I saw a very good 9323 system complete go for $2000 private. Since then, I've seen people ask $2500 ! My Barrett 950 was $1500 (a bargain at the time), but at that time some people were asking well over $2000 -$2500 ...used Codan units usually command say 20-25% more than comparable Barretts.....IMO, if you bought something at a 'bargain' price, you'll get your $ back after a few years anyway - if you buy something at the 'right' price, the depreciation will probably be quite reasonable for your usage. Keep in mind the latest Barrett 2050 complete system can be had for very close to $3k cash - that may be instructive re used pricings.

The Hf Radio Club is similar to VKS737 but a bit cheaper. They sell second hand Codans. About $2200 for set and tuneable antenna. See their site here HF Radio Club
Rod