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[K0MF]

When I bought my '18 F150 STX, I didn't give much thought as to where to install a VHF FM radio.  The STX comes standard with a large center console, and I am looking for any suggestions on where and how to mount the radio facing me (built-in front speaker), and how to best run the power and coax cables.

My TM271 2m seems to fit well sitting in the rectangular cutout in the console, but no idea if I can get behind it to route cables without tearing into the side of the console.  There doesn't seem to be any mounting screws.

The aluminum body precludes the use of a mag mount, but I thought I'd put a small whip on the front fender or on a stake mount in the bed...

Any suggestions? 

TNX, Mike K0MF

[K5LXP]

No doubt there are F150 forums that can answer the console ingress questions.  The last couple GM consoles I tore into were as simple as Revell snap together models.  The install options I consider are usually between readily modified cubbies or buying a radio sized to critically fit an available space.  Just comes down to the effort and expense you want to expend doing it.  It turns out 3/4" hole saws are still an efficient and effective way to install an antenna, and the smoke that comes out of a freshly cut hole smells as sweet as ever.

Mark K5LXP
Albuquerque, NM

[K0UA]

 

It turns out 3/4" hole saws are still an efficient and effective way to install an antenna, and the smoke that comes out of a freshly cut hole smells as sweet as ever.

"I love the smell of fresh sawn holes in the morning. Smells like victory" 

There are very few things that will give me the pure joy as drilling a hole in a new car.