Technical
Here are questions that are technical in nature (ie: how to fix something). There are a number of questions we get that may or may not be truck specific so we try to address them here.
How can I reduce engine noise on my mobile CB?
If you have problems with engine noise in a mobile installation, there are several things you can do to reduce or eliminate the problem:
- Make sure you've completely installed your CB and the antenna is grounded properly. Check the amount of noise with and without the antenna connected. If the noise is greater when the antenna is connected, the source is probably the ignition system. If the noise remains unchanged after disconnecting the antenna, the source is probably in the CB's power supply.
- For ignition noise, there are several parts of the vehicle that can act like RF noise transmitters if not properly grounded. Check (and connect to ground on the chassis/frame, if necessary) the engine block, hood, muffler, and exhaust pipe.
- Ignition noise can be further reduced by installing "magnetic suppression" spark plug cables. (These are significantly more expensive than normal spark plug cables.)
- For power supply noise, check if you have a capacitor attached to your ignition coil, alternator, electric fuel pump (especially on late model Fords) and distributor. These can act as filters right at the source of the noise.
- Ensure that your antenna feedline and power lines are as far as possible from any of the noise sources mentioned above, especially the engine block.
- A shielded power cable can help as well. Make sure it is of sufficient gauge to handle your radio's power consumption and that the shielding has a good, strong connection to ground on the vehicle chassis or frame.
- Electronics stores such as Radio Shack sell low-cost power filters for noise-reduction purposes. But remember, you get what you pay for. Most comments on this newsgroup are that they are not as effective as the other measures above.
If you are still having trouble with line noise, try making an RF Sniffer to narrow down where the noise is coming from. Once you can identify the problem, you can usually find a fix for it.
Is there a easy way to change motor mounts?
Yes and no. We do have a tip that will make things easier in the future.
There is a neat trick that you can do to a motor mount that will make it easier to change the next time you have a problem. This trick also makes it much harder for a motor mount to actually break. To read more about this, click on the Manageable Motor Mounts article in the Tips section of the site.
What can I substitue for power steering fluid?
If you are on the trail and are in need of power steeing fluid, you can substitute transmission fluid instead.