Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
from
Michael Wassell
on
September 24, 2007
Website:
http://www.kb1lmc.com/install/install.html
View comments about this article!
Ford Windstar Yaesu FT-7800R mobile install
Bonus: APRS install
By Michael Wassell, KB1LMC
This was my third install. The first was an ICOM 2100 into an 88
Jimmy Blazer, that was a breeze, just screwed the bracket to the metal
dash! My second was installing the same radio into my Ford
Taurus. No good place to put it, so I just mounted it vertically
on the passenger side of the dash/tranny hump. I next needed to
install a radio in to my Ford Windstar (don't ever buy one!).
After the 2100, I decided the only way was to go with a radio
with a separation capability. So I got a FT-7800R.
I was amazed at the price of the separation kit ($50-75!). I
ordered all the parts of the separation kit from the Internet and paid
a combined price of $15 including shipping! When all the parts
came, I installed the main radio in a nook in the trunk of the van.
This is a perfect place as it protects the radio, provides
ventilation, and yet it is still accessible.
The van has an after market alarm system installed, and I followed
those wires to the firewall where I found an grommeted hole in an
awesome location. I ran the 8g positive lead and the 8g negative
lead from the battery through the grommet, through the paneling, under
the carpet, then along the side paneling all the way to the trunk, then
up to the radio. I had to use a bit of flexible conduit from the
floor to the radio because I could not route it through the trim.
I than ran the remote cable and the speaker cable to the front of the
cab in the same way, the speaker cable goes up the B-post (where the
driver side seat belt connects). I ran the speaker cable from the
B-post through the headliner to the roof mounted center console and
screwed the 1" speaker to the back of it facing forward. This
provides really good sound quality, and is visually barely noticeable.
The remote cable goes under the dash and then up to the remote head
which I mounted with 3m Velcro (extremely strong) to the dash. I
screwed the mic holder next to the AM/FM radio.
Next I pulled the headliner down around the trunk, making sure not to
mess up the roof mounted a/c ducts. I drilled a hole in the roof
and mounted my dual-band NMO mount antenna. I am no expert in
antenna theory, but the guy at the ham shop said not to cut feed wire
to length, so I routed the feed cable through the headliner, down the
trim and into the radio. I had about 5 feet of extra feed line
that I coiled up and stuck in to the nook in the trunk.
After everything was set, fired up the radio and every thing works great! A very clean install.
Bonus:
APRS
This was my first attempt at APRS, and I am already saving for a TNC to take it to the next level!
In this install, I installed a simple TinyTrak3 plus. I wanted it
to automatically power on when the car started, and off when it was
shut off. I had a hard time finding a switched power source, but
finally found a fuse in the fuse box that was tied to the ignition.
I put a fuse tap in and ran the wire to the trunk the same way as
the radio.
I then made a "APRS box" which is a 12-Volt relay, 12-Volt cigarette socket,
and a manual power switch. I mounted the tinytrak, the gps
receiver (mag mount to roof) and currently use a VX-7R ( I planned to
use a commercial Kenwood HT, but lost the programing cable, so the
vx-7r is temp until I find the cable.).
Anyway, I made the APRS box to take the 5-Amp power from the fuse box,
and use it to switch on a 15-Amp fused power source that is shared with
the FT-7800. It also switches on the cigarette plug to switch the
ht on and off.
That is about it!
This is the only visible part of the radio from the drivers seat
Another view. The radio is very secure. Cables routed through the gap in the molding.
Another view
The three antennas: Front-aprs radio mag mount, rear- dual band nmo mount, to the right- GPS receiver.
Magmount 2-Meter APRS radio
Mag-mount GPS antenna
Rear-NMO dual band
The radio is a clean install, the APRS wires are every where and need
to be cleaned up. Main radio, VX-7R, "ARRS box" and below is the tiny
trak3
"APRS box" just a relay and the power plugs for the tinytrak and HT.
Another view
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Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by K1CJS on September 24, 2007
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It seems to be a clean install, however the mount point for the radios is right out in the open and can be seen quite easily from the outside--the bin used is right at the driver side rear window. If the window is a vent opening type--even if not, there is too much of a possibility of someone breaking in to get your radios.
If you're using APRS heavily, it is advantageous to have your vehicle wired for it--but to me it is just a step closer to "Big brother is watching".
As the author said, don't buy a Windstar (I already have) because there is really no place to mount any setup, but that is becoming increasingly true of just about any newer vehicle.
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by KB1OCC on September 24, 2007
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Nice system. APRS will be handy to pinpoint the location where the Windstar broke down.
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by AK2B on September 24, 2007
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As it is now, I would lose the APRS equipment before someone else decides to lose it for you. That would also eliminate those mag mounts on the roof that are not really a good idea either. In a sudden stop those seemingly harmless items become ballistic missiles inside and outside of your vehicle. If you can consolidate the APRS into a better package (a plastic Tupper Ware type box) maybe you can find a way to mount it under a seat somewhere. The GPS antenna can mount under the dash close to the front of the window if you have access. Another location might be under the plastic(if it exists) outside by the windshield wipers. Look for a route inside the vehicle by lifting the hood and opening the front door. If you find access, wrap the antenna cable in plastic loom. I would find a more solid mount for the GPS transceiver antenna. Since you've already drilled for the dual bander, one more hole isn't going to matter. Having said all that, I'm not really familiar with the Windstar and all of its nooks and crannies but you should always think safety whenever you mount equipment in your car. One other thing, unless you live in NoTheft, USA, any exposed item like your control head is also going to invite trouble. Often, in our shop, we try and keep them concealed as much as possible. If they have to be exposed and are mounted lower, like next to the console or on a pedestal mount, you can throw a small rag, blanket or whatever on top when you leave the vehicle. As far as cutting the antenna cable, if you are installing the connector yourself, cut it to fit if you like. There is no reason to really worry about this one way or another.
Tom, AK2B
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by AA4II on September 24, 2007
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Only other problem I see with install, is both the HT and the main body of the 7800 are exposed to direct sunlight through the window. Although most rigs today are "claimed" to be mil spec, I'm not sure I'd want to take the chance with the heat that can be generated by sun through a window into a vehicle. Other than that great job at setting up in a vehicle not totally radio friendly.
73 Rick DE AA4II
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by KF4HR on September 24, 2007
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"Nice system. APRS will be handy to pinpoint the location where the Windstar broke down."
I had an APRS rig for years. Nice concept but a real-life need never really presented itself. Then again, I don't drive a Ford product.
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by K4RAF on September 24, 2007
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I guess with all the money spent on APRS, he did not have the change to buy some Armor-All or Windex & some paper towels to clean up the inside of the vehicle before he took the photos.
I would also never use a GPS mouse outside the vehicle. There is an increased theft or vandalism potential & there is no need to have it outside. I use my GPS mouse inside the front windshield, set on a 3lb coffee can lid & a coffee can cover. Works fine & keeps the GPS out of the weather & road dirt/chemicals.
Typical ham radio alligator clip setup, using 25 year old technology. Where is the gee-whiz factor?
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by W3LK on September 24, 2007
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<< As the author said, don't buy a Windstar (I already have) because there is really no place to mount any setup, >>
NOT TRUE!!!
My Alinco DX-70TH is bolted to the floor underneath the driver's seat of my '03 Windstar (and yes, I have power seats), the dual band is similarily mounted under the front passenger seats, the control heads are mounted on top of the lower dash section and all cables are concealed.
It DOES same some planning and forethought, but the Windstar is not hard to mount radios in.
73,
Lon - W3LK
Naugatuck, Connecticut
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by W3LK on September 24, 2007
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PS ...
The authors's radio installation in the rear looks like a junk-box and a rat's nest. His is NOT a professional looking installation by any stretch of the imagination, but rather an (unfortunately all too typical) amateurish installation.
73,
Lon - W3LK
Naugatuck, Connecticut
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by N4CQR on September 24, 2007
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Another eHam pissing match. Whay don't you all just tell him to sell the van, forget ham radio cause he'll never be able to live up to, or install anything to your expectations.
..)The authors's radio installation in the rear looks like a junk-box and a rat's nest.
..)Typical ham radio alligator clip setup, using 25 year old technology. Where is the gee-whiz factor?
..) Nice system. APRS will be handy to pinpoint the location where the Windstar broke down.
..) I had an APRS rig for years. Nice concept but a real-life need never really presented itself.
Then again, I don't drive a Ford product.
..) As it is now, I would lose the APRS equipment before someone else decides to lose it for you.
That would also eliminate those mag mounts on the roof that are not really a good idea either.
In a sudden stop those seemingly harmless items become ballistic missiles inside and outside of
your vehicle.
I guess if you are not one of the in-crowd your installation, regardless of how it is done, is crap. Hell, look at the shack showcase if you want to see a gom (mess) and you all want to bitch at this individual? I give him an, att'a'boy boy for trying. Something many of you don't and never will do.
I also notice that many of the comments come from birds that have never written an article, of any kind. But find plenty to bitch about when someone else does.
The more I hang hang around here I see why only certain people post. Sure seems to be a lot of butt kissers.I for one, never did and never will.
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by K5LXP on September 24, 2007
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How this became an article is what should be debated, not the merits of the install. There's nothing new or remarkable here. This should be on the author's private web page, not presented as an article in a widely read amateur radio forum.
Mark K5LXP
Albuquerque, NM
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by WW0H on September 24, 2007
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I don't know, Mark; I have a 2000 Windstar and love it for the ride and the space I have as opposed to my 1994 Sable. I've been trying to figure out how to mount any radio in mine, and it is nice to see how someone else did it. Not sure I would put the radios where he did, and all of the rear seats are removable. Sort of limits any installation, so for me, any examples are greatly appreciated.
73,
John WW0H
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by W6TH on September 24, 2007
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.
Howdie doodie
Good grief fellow hams, KB1LMC is only a Technician, did a great job. Just imagine what he will be able to do when he upgrades to an Extra class.
.:
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by N4CQR on September 24, 2007
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Well, I giving him an -A- for effort and an -A+- for his willingness to share his efforts and ideas.
--
Good grief fellow hams, KB1LMC is only a Technician, did a great job. Just imagine what he will be able to do when he upgrades to an Extra class.
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by KF4HR on September 24, 2007
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"The more I hang hang around here I see why only certain people post. Sure seems to be a lot of butt kissers.I for one, never did and never will."
Lighten up Jim, (or perhaps stop hanging hanging around). A few of us are just joking. Heck, (I'll admit it), I've owned a Ford..., once.
Humor... it's not just a concept (to some).
KB1LMC - Something you may want to consider, in a future APRS mobile setup, is a Kenwood TM-D700A (or the new TM-D710A), along with a Garmin G35 GPS Module. The Garmin GPS module is pretty sensitive and can be mounted inside (windshield area in the case of your van) and can still receive the GPS birds just fine. These Kenwood rigs have a built-in TNC and are APRS ready. This reduces the wiring considerably.
And if you want to get really fancy and get the full APRS experience, add a AvMap GPS.
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Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by AH6GI on September 24, 2007
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Very good!
My first mobile install, an HW-32, used unfused wiring and I had taped the connections. Well, the tape fell off, a connection grounded, and the wire burned the insulation off.
The car filled with smoke from the burning insulation.
I had 2 passengers in the car. You should have heard the yelling.
My next mobile rig was an SB-101 with Hustler. I had both the 40 and 20 meter resonators. I made all of 1 QSO with that set up. About 10 years later, I discovered that there was a faulty capacitor in the pre-built LMO.
Just wanted to put some perspective on mobile set ups.
de ah6gi/4
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by N4CQR on September 24, 2007
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KF4HR Lighten up Jim, (or perhaps stop hanging hanging around).
Get your nose out of the call book, dork. My name is CRAIG. CRAIG is the name. Not Jim. If you would have have had a QSO with me, you would know that.
Another example of a ham taking things for granted.
I really like getting on one of the bands and some lid comes back and says, "Well Jim, You Are 5 - 9 here in hoochie-coochie. Well, Jim you are doing good here in Hoochie-chhchie, Jim. Good copy, Jim. QRzed?
And the idiot does not even know my name.
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Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by N0AH on September 24, 2007
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Mag antennas? Other than that comment, awesome job!!!
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by N4CQR on September 24, 2007
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on behalf of, Michael, thanks Paul
C R A I G
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by K1CJS on September 24, 2007
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>><< As the author said, don't buy a Windstar (I already have) because there is really no place to mount any setup, >>
NOT TRUE!!!
My Alinco DX-70TH is bolted to the floor underneath the driver's seat of my '03 Windstar (and yes, I have power seats), the dual band is similarily mounted under the front passenger seats, the control heads are mounted on top of the lower dash section and all cables are concealed.
It DOES same some planning and forethought, but the Windstar is not hard to mount radios in.<<
That is true of any car if you're willing to pull half the dash apart as well as rip up the moldings around the area of the install. A van is doubly hard because of the design of the thing. The Mercury Grand Marquis I have now is entirely different--much easier to run wiring.
When I install, it is with a wire snake and very little tearing apart of anything. The Windstar I had is terrible, there is not one straight run in the interior, and the design precludes easy disassembly of the interior of the thing. Also, under the front seat is fine......unless you're using the van as a transporter as I was. There was too much chance of damage to the radio if it was put under there.
>>PS ...
The authors's radio installation in the rear looks like a junk-box and a rat's nest. His is NOT a professional looking installation by any stretch of the imagination, but rather an (unfortunately all too typical) amateurish installation.<<
It could have been done a little neater. but the author does deserve credit--his write up stated he had to clean it up. Stop being so critical--especially when you took a shortcut and 'cheated' with your shortcut 'under the seat' install. Geez, cut the guy a little slack, huh?
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by N4CQR on September 24, 2007
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Amen, Chris
C R A I G
It could have been done a little neater. but the author does deserve credit--his write up stated he had to clean it up. Stop being so critical--especially when you took a shortcut and 'cheated' with your shortcut 'under the seat' install. Geez, cut the guy a little slack, huh?
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by W3LK on September 24, 2007
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That is true of any car if you're willing to pull half the dash apart as well as rip up the moldings around the area of the install. A van is doubly hard because of the design of the thing.>>
The only thing removed was the glove box.
<<The Windstar I had is terrible, there is not one straight run in the interior, and the design precludes easy disassembly of the interior of the thing.>>
Again, this is not my experience and I have had three of them.
<<Also, under the front seat is fine......unless you're using the van as a transporter as I was. There was too much chance of damage to the radio if it was put under there. >>
I don't understand your statement about using the vehicle as a transporter. What does this have to do with equipment under the seats?
<<It could have been done a little neater. but the author does deserve credit--his write up stated he had to clean it up. Stop being so critical--especially when you took a shortcut and 'cheated' with your shortcut 'under the seat' install. Geez, cut the guy a little slack, huh? >>
Under the seat is cheating?
It's not a matter of cutting slack; it's a statememt of fact. The installation looks junky and I am not the only one to say so.
73,
Lon - W3LK
Naugatuck, Connecticut
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by W3LK on September 24, 2007
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<< I also notice that many of the comments come from birds that have never written an article, of any kind.>>
And this has relevance how?
I have been doing radio installs, commercial and amateur, off and on for about 40 years now, so that does give me a little leeway to criticize a poorly done installation.
73,
Lon - W3LK
Naugatuck, Connecticut
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by N7YA on September 24, 2007
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His only mistake was posting on eHam, he should have known that he was going to be attacked.
First off, i never, ever judge a ham based on how clean a job LOOKS, i base it on how clean it operates. seriously, who here is THAT anal retentive? im sure our shacks have wires and tools and crap all over, mine does. i like to tinker with stuff right on the desk, hell, i even do my bills right here! im still a happy ham who gets joy out of playing with my radios.
Kudos to the author for doing something other than sitting on his ass and taking jabs at people over the internet, how clean are some of our posts? His set-up is a bit messy because he is a ham in the true spirit, he built the system into his van...even if its a Ford product, i can forgive him for that, he will have trouble enough when the warranty expires (see? not jabbing at the author).
As for the replies, theres the usual uneccessary jabs and criticizm, and a few good suggestions designed to help improve the set-up (these are good things), but theres also humor, like the ARPS being a nice addition and helpful when the Windstar breaks down...i laughed because it was funny. that was the intent, im quite sure.
These are tense enough times as it is, our hobby is having its own troubles with rapidly growing fissures in the fellowship we have held true with for many years...when a ham does a project himself in the true ham spirit, then decides to share it with his bretheren hams, cant we just read what he wrote...maybe discuss it with him or eachother, tell him 'job well done', and say thanks for doing something positive in the hobby to keep us alive?
I play music for a living, theres a couple of jokes circulating around the pro music scene...how many lead guitarists does it take to screw in a lightbulb? 11...one to actually screw it in, and 10 to stand around talking about how much better they could have done it. When i tell that joke, i have to use 'lead guitarist', i cant say 'how many ham operators does it take' because nobody out there knows we still exist...this is why we should be supportive of eachother, because not only will we look like a bunch of geeks who cant get girls (i know many of you have wives and kids but nobody knows that or cares)playing with an outdated mode of communication, but if any non-ham reads these forums, they will think were a bunch of sociopaths too! If you dont care about that, then you really dont care about our future.
How many lead singers does it take to screw in a lightbulb? one...he holds the bulb and the world revolves around him.
That could also be describing some of us "royalty" hams who seem to think a ham license is a status symbol...absolutely ridiculous! especially these days...we are practicioners of a perceived dying art, so articles like the one presented here are more valid than you think and should not be taken for granted, we need more of these things. I say nice job on the set-up, i dont care if it looks messy, it works and thats all that matters....besides, its his van, he can make it however messy he damn well pleases!
Ok, now heres a few more musician jokes that i have for those of you who are just getting in from work and actually enjoy humor and need a laugh (i lifted some of these in all fairness)...
How can you tell if a stage is level? the drummer is drooling out of both sides of his mouth.
Have you heard about the guitarist who was always in tune?
...neither have i.
~Saint Peter is checking in new arrivals in heaven....~
"What did you do on Earth?"
"I was a surgeon. I helped the lame to walk."
"Well, go right on in through the Pearly Gates"
"What did you do on Earth?"
"I was a school teacher. I taught the blind to see."
"Fine .. go right on in through the Pearly Gates!"
"What did you do on Earth?"
"I was a musician. I helped make sad people happy."
"You can load in through the kitchen."
How do you get a guitar player off of your front porch ?
Pay for the pizza.
How many guitar players does it take to cover a Stevie Ray Vaughn tune ?
Evidently all of them.
What do you call a guitarist who breaks up with his girlfriend ?
Homeless ..
"Mommy! Mommy! When I grow up I want to be a guitar player!"
"Now Johnny, you can't do both!"
How many lead guitarists does it take to change a light bulb ?
None...they just steal somebody else's light
What do you say to a guitar player in a 3-piece suit ?
"Will the defendant please rise ..."
Two guys were walking down the street ...one was destitute ...
the other was a guitar player as well ..
How is an orgasm like a drum solo?
You can tell it's coming but there's no way to stop it.
What do call a successful musician?
A guy whose wife/girlfriend has 2 jobs.
How do you improve the aerodynamics of a trombonist's car?
Take the Domino's Pizza sign off the roof.
What kind of calendar does a trombonist use for his gigs?
"Year-at-a-glance"
What do you call someone who hangs around with musicians?
A drummer.
What does a timpanist say when he gets to work?
"Would you like fries with that, sir?"
What did the drummer get on his I.Q. test?
Drool.
How many drummers does it take to change a lightbulb?
None. They have machines to do that now.
"Hey buddy, how late does the band play?"
"Oh, about a half a beat behind the drummer."
How can you tell when a drummer is at your door?
The knock gets faster.
Why do bands have bass players?
To translate for the drummer.
Did you hear about the time the bass player locked his keys in the car?
It took two hours to get the drummer out.
A jazz musician dies and goes to heaven. He is told "Hey man, welcome! You have been elected to the Jazz All-Stars of Heaven--right up there with Satchmo, Miles, Django, all the greats. We have a gig tonight. Only one problem--God's girlfriend gets to sing."
How do you tell if a bass player is actually dead?
Hold out a check (but don't be fooled: a slight, residual spasmodic clutching action may occur even hours after death has occurred).
How many bassists does it take to change a lightbulb?
None. They're so macho they prefer to walk in the dark and bang their shins.
Why do musicians tour the most in the summer?
So they can visit all their kids.
What's the least-used sentence in the English language?
"Isn't that the banjo player's Porsche?"
How many country & western singers does it take to change a light bulb?
Three. One to change the bulb and two to sing about the old one.
What do you get when you play New Age music backwards?
New Age music.
What does it say on a blues singer's tombstone?
"I didn't wake up this morning..."
What's the difference between a puppy and a singer-songwriter?
Eventually the puppy stops whining.
How many sound men does it take to change a light bulb?
1."One, two, three, one, two, three..."
2."Hey man, I just do sound."
3.One. Upon finding no replacement, he takes the original apart, repairs it with a chewing gum wrapper and duct tape, changes the screw mount to bayonet mount, finds an appropriate patch cable, and re-installs the bulb fifty feet from where it should have been, to the satisfaction of the rest of the band.
How many Deadheads does it take to change a lightbulb?
12,001. One to change it, 2,000 to record the event and take pictures of it, and 10,000 to follow it around until it burns out.
Know how to make a million dollars singing jazz?
Start with two million.
How many jazz musicians does it take to change a light bulb?
1.None. Jazz musicians can't afford light bulbs.
2."Don't worry about the changes. We'll fake it!"
What's the difference between a bull and an orchestra?
The bull has the horns in the front and the a**hole in the back.
....and finally....
Letter from a Guitarist to the "Dear Abby" help column in a newspaper.
Dear Abby
I think my wife is cheating on me.
I am a working musician and, as you would expect, travel a lot.
I have been noticing strange things happening when I get home. Her mobile phone rings and she steps outside to answer it or she says, "I'll call you back later". When I ask her who called she gets evasive.
Sometimes she goes out with friends but comes home late, getting dropped off around the corner and walking the rest of the way.
I once picked up the extension while she was on the phone and she got very angry.
A buddy of mine plays guitar in a band. He told me that my wife and some guy have been to his gigs.
He wanted to borrow my guitar amp. That's when I got the idea to find out for myself what was really happening. I said "sure, you can use my amp but I want to hide behind it at the gig and see if she comes into the venue and who she comes in with". He agreed.
Saturday night came and I slipped behind my Marshall JCM800 half stack to get a good view. I could feel the heat coming off the back of the amp. It was at that moment, crouching down behind the amp, that I noticed that one of the tubes was not glowing as bright as the other 3.
Is this something I can fix myself or do need to take it to a technician?
Thanks - Very Concerned.
...ok, thats enough, i have more if you are interested. remember guys, its a hobby, its fun....lighten up.
73...Adam, N7YA
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Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by K0RGR on September 24, 2007
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The front installation looks pretty neat, but the rear APRS rig looks like a bit of a hazard. In the event of a sudden stop, you don't want anything flying around.
What the folks around here with their Tiny Trakers do is to put the whole thing in a little carry bag, and secure the bag while driving. That way, it does not attract thieves who might think it's a cellphone.
Don't let these guys rib you, if you're doing public service or SKYWARN work, your APRS will probably come in handy. I just find it interesting to see where I managed to get into the APRS network while on long trips. The next version of Tiny Trak will be a full-blown very tiny KISS-mode TNC which should support most of the popular PC and Linux APRS software.
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by K1CJS on September 25, 2007
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>>I have been doing radio installs, commercial and amateur, off and on for about 40 years now, so that does give me a little leeway to criticize a poorly done installation.<<
I've been doing both kinds of installations for about that long as well. Leeway to criticize? No. Nobody has that--even if you've been doing them for a hundred years. Also, you aren't going to do too well or make too many friends if you tell everybody that comes to you for help they've done a poor job--or they're a hacker. Another thing is how do you know what the installer had to work with or what his requirements are for his vehicle are?
When I say a transporter, I mean just that--transporting kids, groceries, building materials--heck, just about anything that may get under the seat. You see, when I plan an installation I usually consider worst case useage, not ease of install by taking shortcuts--such as putting the radio body under a seat where it may be damaged. Some of us actually use their vehicle for everyday living and working--not just as a display of how neatly a radio can be installed.
The bin used by the author isn't the best place to install the body either, but it does get the radio out of the path of probable damage by things shifting around--or kids moving around. How about an adult stretching out and damaging the radio with their shoes? It's better to find an out of the way place to put the thing than putting it where it may be damaged accidently--which led me to say there isn't a good place to mount a remote radio unit and no 'under dash' area to mount a standard transceiver.
The author did a commendable job for his third install--with more experience he'll be fine, and probably better than most because he seems to understand you should get the radio up and out of the way of rolling or sliding projectiles. His stating "the APRS wires are every where and need to be cleaned up." shows he sees the shortfalls of his install and knows what has to be worked on.
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by KF4HR on September 25, 2007
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"Get your nose out of the call book, dork. My name is CRAIG. CRAIG is the name. Not Jim. If you would have have had a QSO with me, you would know that."
DARN! Of the ~3/4 million hams in the United States, I somehow managed to miss having a QSO with you CRAIG! But, ok, CRAIG is the name, got it. (Hummm, or is really James?) In any case, thank you for sharing your wonderful attitude with all of us. Rest assured the world is just dieing to have a QSO with you now CRAIG.
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by W3LK on September 25, 2007
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CJS:
My last post on the subject ...
<< I've been doing both kinds of installations for about that long as well. Leeway to criticize? No. Nobody has that--even if you've been doing them for a hundred years. Also, you aren't going to do too well or make too many friends if you tell everybody that comes to you for help they've done a poor job--or they're a hacker. Another thing is how do you know what the installer had to work with or what his requirements are for his vehicle are? >>
I praise where praise is due and criticise where that is appropriate, too. In this case it was appropriate. The front looks good; the back looks like a disaster area. That is very evident from the photographs. Telling the author it looks great is simply lying to him.
<< When I say a transporter, I mean just that--transporting kids, groceries, building materials--heck, just about anything that may get under the seat. >>
Gee, and you think no one else uses their vehicles for such? That's WHY my radios are under the seats and I have yet to have a radio damaged. I can't say the same thing about the interior wall panels, the headliner and so forth.
<< You see, when I plan an installation I usually consider worst case useage, not ease of install by taking shortcuts--such as putting the radio body under a seat where it may be damaged. >>
Geez, what's with this "shortcut" kick you are on. Unless you put the radio behind the interior panels, under the seat IS the most protected place you can put them - unless you have a trunk and the last time I looked, Windstars don't have one.
<< Some of us actually use their vehicle for everyday living and working--not just as a display of how neatly a radio can be installed. >>
My vehicles usually get about 30,000 miles a year put on them and well over 125,000 before trade, so I think I do use mine just as much as you use yours. None of this precludes doing a professional installation; unless you prefer to the 'junk-heap' look. Personally, I think your sarcasm is childish, but then, that's just my opinion.
I'll hold to my original post's statements. They are accurate, whether you like them or agree with them or not.
73,
Lon - W3LK
Naugatuck, Connecticut
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by W3FHT on September 25, 2007
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"theres a couple of jokes circulating around the pro music scene...how many lead guitarists does it take to screw in a lightbulb?"
I thought that it was "drummers".
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by N6KYS on September 25, 2007
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Now that you have your mobile setup, whatever you do.....DON'T become one of those ARES lunatics. Light bars and other flashers, sometimes tinted windows on a sedan with spartan wheels to look like a cop car, some wearing unifoms of some kind.....THAT is wierd beyond description.
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Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by NE3R on September 25, 2007
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Wow, for what you spent on a VX-7R & FT-7800 you could have went with a Kendood TM-D700 (or 710). There are some things you should work on, like getting the rigs away from the window. It can be tough to mount rigs when the vehicle is used for more than just a radio platform. You want all your seats to fold the way they are supposed to, out of the way of the cargo you want to cary, and in my case, where the kids won't touch it.
Keep working on it, and I hope to see your install after you've added the HF rig!
73 de Joe NE3R
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by N7YA on September 25, 2007
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"theres a couple of jokes circulating around the pro music scene...how many lead guitarists does it take to screw in a lightbulb?"
I thought that it was "drummers".
...The drummers get all sorts of flak, i thought i would send one the guitarists way. ;-)
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Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by WR8Y on September 25, 2007
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How DARE someone try to write an article for eHam - let's get 'em guys!
-------
This place needs a good moderator !
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by K1CJS on September 25, 2007
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"This place needs a good moderator !"
Agreed. It seems to be that the purpose of this site has gone to criticizing the posters of info that is offered as help to others. I'm glad that spirit seems to be confined to here--especially with the anonymous posters that infest this site and the self rightous trolls who congregate here.
Mike saw the shortfalls of his installation--and he said as much. Its too bad that he took the photos offered here before he cleaned it up. Some here want to nail him to the wall because of it.
Because of the reception here of the efforts of people who take the time and effort to post things, those people won't bother in the future. That is really too bad because some of them have info of value to offer. Ham radio is supposed to be a hobby--the perfectionists here have turned it into a religion, and woe to those who won't worship them.
It's too bad. E-Ham used to be a site for the enjoyment and promotion of the hobby. It's now a self perpetuating guru worship site--and heaven help you if you don't worship. You'll be flamed and ridiculed by those gurus till you come into line and genuflect. Well, I won't. Those stodgy perfectionists here can go to blazes.
Mike, good job, and 73.
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Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by W0DKM on September 26, 2007
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Nice article, Very good pictures. Thanks for sharing!
I'm a Master Auto Tech, I work on all makes. The Windstar made after 1998 or so, Not all that bad. This article bashing is shameful.
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Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by KG2V on September 26, 2007
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I'll have to Nth the comment about the front being very well done, and the back being a rats nest.
I THINK (not sure) that there are some spots where you can mount the chassis and the like BEHIND some of the side pannels, and leave only the APRS box out so you can get to the HT - and heck, a small hole, and some velcro, and the HT can sit out, and the APRS hardware can be behind the pannel
Anyway, I've seen a LOT worse (heck - the front in my truck is worse, the back is better)
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Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by K3TJ on September 27, 2007
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N6KYS, I have to agree about light bars, sirens and so called uniforms.
I respectfully disagree that driving an old police car is a bad idea. They are inexpensive and you can most likely get the city/town to leave the radio mounting racks and coax in place. Swap out your antenna's and your radios and your set to go. And for the price, you won't get a better deal. Ask nice and they will even give you the maintanence records.
Perhaps I am predjudice because I teach for the municipal police and can get the "pick of the litter" but you have a ready made four minute installation.
Go to Maryland and the state police cars also have 9 foot whips which work great on HF with a tuner. If you hate whips, take it off and its already threaded to accept the avanti series of antennas.
One last advantage... cops are loath to pull over their own. But thats another story.
Regards, Ed k3tj
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Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by KA0YKO on September 29, 2007
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Great article, Michael. Good job and thanks for sharing it with us!
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by AD6WL on September 29, 2007
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Lessons learned:
Don’t post photos of your project in progress; If the setup is not professional and fully completed then you will flamed here on eHam.
Don’t get involved with ARES.
Don’t share your experience with others.
Don’t write an article for eHam.
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by KB3MMX on September 30, 2007
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A Kenwood D700 would have been a whole lot cleaner and easier to install for the application and price of parts!
--BUT--
An A+ for effort on the install and sharing the project is in order!!
Good Job!!
And thanks for sharing with the group!!
--Chuck
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by N6KYS on October 2, 2007
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>>>>by AD6WL on September 29, 2007 Mail this to a friend!
Lessons learned:
Don’t post photos of your project in progress; If the setup is not professional and fully completed then you will flamed here on eHam.
Don’t get involved with ARES.
Don’t share your experience with others.
Don’t write an article for eHam.<<<<
Oh please spare us the whining. Agreed about trolls, but so much of constructive criticism on here is viewed by guys like you as incivility. You're only happy when you get your head patted and nose whiped.
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by K1CJS on October 2, 2007
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Well, Brad, that may be how some look at is--as constructive criticism, but quite a bit of the time those critical rants are attacks on the article and it premise or as attacks on the writer for his methods, work or conclusions--or even the parts and materials used.
How many times have the words 'idiot', 'stupid', 'as*hole' or their equivalents or other derogatory words used? Most of us know they are NOT used as constructive criticism, but rather as ammunition in those direct attacks.
Hopefully, the people who use such terms for their 'constructive criticism' will get the clue and try moderation instead of baiting. Hopefully.....
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by N6KYS on October 2, 2007
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>>>by K1CJS on October 2, 2007 Mail this to a friend!
Well, Brad, that may be how some look at is--as constructive criticism, but quite a bit of the time those critical rants are attacks on the article and it premise or as attacks on the writer for his methods, work or conclusions--or even the parts and materials used.
How many times have the words 'idiot', 'stupid', 'as*hole' or their equivalents or other derogatory words used? Most of us know they are NOT used as constructive criticism, but rather as ammunition in those direct attacks.
Hopefully, the people who use such terms for their 'constructive criticism' will get the clue and try moderation instead of baiting. Hopefully.....<<<<
Hi Chris,
Absolutely no argument from here, especially with regard to the name calling. There is an element though, both here and on the Yahoo groups, who are spring loaded into a digital thrashing of anyone who doesn't write replies like Mr. Rogers would have....and I mean with a nastiness that's really wierd. They tend to be uninformed and don't seem very bright, but they'll make a big sanctimonious stand on something they know very little about so they feel like have a purpose.
Not writing about you, Chris....you seem like a pretty decent guy.
Cheers,
Brad
N6KYS
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by K1CJS on October 3, 2007
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Thanks, but I'm sure there are those here that don't agree with you. Ah, well.......
73!
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RE: Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by KB8ELK on October 7, 2007
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KB1LMC,
The only mobile I've done was a dual band fm vhf/uhf radio.
It worked fine, but now I'm contemplating a 706 for hf mobile, and I appreciate every article on mobile installation I can find.
Thanks for your post. Feel free to ignore the idiots.
Ron
KB8ELK
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Windstar FT-7800R Mobile Install and APRS
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by AD7DB on October 12, 2007
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Watch out that the RJ45 modular mike connector doesn't wear out from regular use. I had to replace that part on a Kenwood mike once. Since then I use a strain relief and have had no problems since.
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