Where to get 3/8th roof mounts with right angle cable entry?

[G7MRV]

Im looking for a 3/8th through-roof mount to install on my Ford Fiesta. As this would be fitted between the roof and the lining panel, i need something that takes the coax at right angles and so has very little bulk inside the car. I dont seem to be able to find these in 3/8ths. Every type i look at has a SO-239 socket on the back which would need too much clearence, and all the right angle cable entry types seem to be SO-239 for the antenna!

I have a MB-400 trunk lid mount kit, but the only location that will fit is at the bottom edge of the tailgate/hatch, which is far from ideal. The HF antennas i have are all 3/8th mounting.

I use Panorama M8 mounts for VHF and UHF antennas, mounted through the roof, but these cannot handle the loading of HF antennas.

Can anyone point me to a source of suitable through roof 3/8ths mounts? Preferably available in the UK

Thanks

[KJ4OBR]

Why not mount an NMO and use an NMO to 3/8ths adapter? http://tinyurl.com/6n8yo4w you can add a square of sheetmetal between the roof and headliner to stiffen the sheetmetal around the mount if you needed to.


Dave

[G7MRV]

Why not mount an NMO and use an NMO to 3/8ths adapter? http://tinyurl.com/6n8yo4w you can add a square of sheetmetal between the roof and headliner to stiffen the sheetmetal around the mount if you needed to.


Dave

NMO mounts seem to be peculiar to the US. Here in the UK most commercial/public safety antennas are Panorama mounts. Theres no adaptor for these, and i suspect they wouldnt be strong enoug anyway.

I'd rather not use a SO-239 type with adaptor, although its an option if i cant find a 3/8th with suitable narrow clearance.

I will be including an additional sheet of aluminium to add rigidity.

[AJ3O]

I think you are looking for something like these? If not, call the company and talk to Kathy or her husband. VERY friendly and VERY helpful.


http://sauderelectronics.com/All-Brass-3-8-x-24-Lug-Terminal-Type-Stud-Mount-SM2.htm

or

http://sauderelectronics.com/3-8-x-24-Wafer-Stud-No-Solder-WS1.htm

[K0BG]

If you really studied a 3/8 inch mount, you'd know why they're not the stuff of champions. It doesn't take much of a whack from an errant limb to dislodge one. But that's not all.

Once upon a time Antenna Specialists, made one with a 90 degree connection. Problem was, the actual depth below the mounting surface was about twice that of an NMO mount.

Suit yourself, but I wouldn't use on on a bet!

[K1CJS]

Even though NMO may well be most popular in the US, there isn't much needed to get one or two shipped overseas.  The actual value isn't too high, and may well be under the amount that would trigger an import duty charge.