Prado Roof Rails - UHF Connection

Hi Margro,

Having 2 such vehicles in the family (and one is for sale!), this is what is did.

I got a "Z" shaped stainless steel bracket from Tandy (or Dick Smiths) and mounted it on the left hand side of the Prado, in the gap between the bonnet and mudguard. There is just enough room to run the co-ax between the bonnet and guard without undue rubbing.

I then ran the coax and plug through the large grommet on the firewall near the were I mounted the antenna.

The result being, the coax and plug entered the cabin up under the dash approximately behind the glovebox compartment.

As I didn't want to drill holes in the vehicle, the CB sat on the centre of the dash on a 3mm piece of that non-slip matting (available from Clark Rubber), and wedged it up against the windscreen.

12 volt power was supplied via the cigar lighter on the lower console.

Worked a treat, and no extra holes in the car!

Cheers, Matt

Does it have to be a permanent install ? What about a magnetic mount? They will stay put unless you knock them with something.

Margro,

Even if you get something, how do you plan on getting the antenna cable up to the roof rails.

Cheers,

Cruiser

Hi Cruiser...I was thinking either via the back or front doors, under the black rail bit...do you think this wont be possible?

Margro,

A follow up on my original response is that it didn't rub on my paintwork, but maybe your panel fit is better than mine!

Another option is a on-glass antenna system. Probably not quite as good, but unobtrusive and no holes. I think I've seen 6 db gain ones on the market for <$100.

Cheers, Matt