Two Way Radios?

[supersix]

Anyone plan on installing a two way radio? This is on my list of future mods.

Here's a good install video:

 

[Ironmike]

My wife has an MXT-275 in her Rubicon, and I’ll likely put the 575 in my Raptor when it arrives.

 

[Rob41]

Even though I haven't ridden with groups, I still like the idea of these radios. I was scoping out the MXT575 on the net last night.

 

[luterdan]

I've looked at that one and the 275. Not sure what is needed

 

[Rob41]

I'm

I've looked at that one and the 275. Not sure what is needed

sure ironmike and others can tell you more, but the 575 is a 50w unit which is going to have more range. If I'm not mistaken, they are around $400 for the 575.

I saw a clean install over at bronco6g where the actual unit was mounted under the console and only a flush mount jack was installed on the side to plug in the hand held controller.

 

[luterdan]

I'm

sure ironmike and others can tell you more, but the 575 is a 50w unit which is going to have more range. If I'm not mistaken, they are around $400 for the 575.

I saw a clean install over at bronco6g where the actual unit was mounted under the console and only a flush mount jack was installed on the side to plug in the hand held controller.

Inside the glove box looked like a nice place too

 

[Rob41]

Inside the glove box looked like a nice place too

Sure is. It's nice when you get the one that uses the mic with all the controls. When not in use you stash that away too.

 

[Ironmike]

More range is always better. 575 has about three times more range than the 275 (for not that much more cost), so that’s what I’ll put in the Raptor. Will make an install-time decision about where to stash the head unit once I’ve surveyed the interior. Console, glovebox, under seats…all good locations generally.

 

[luterdan]

More range is always better. 575 has about three times more range than the 275 (for not that much more cost), so that’s what I’ll put in the Raptor. Will make an install-time decision about where to stash the head unit once I’ve surveyed the interior. Console, glovebox, under seats…all good locations generally.

Under seats could get wet....

 

[Ironmike]

Under seats could get wet....

Unlikely

 

[Rob41]

@Ironmike, I see Midland has a couple different antennas for these. One is longer (I think 6db gain?) and the other is a stubby that looks to be about half the diameter of a beer can and is 3db gain if I'm not mistaken.

Since I intend to go with the MXT575 (50 watts), I'll use the longer 6db unit. In either case, do you know if the antenna are easily removable or are they a PITA to remove and replace?

 

[luterdan]

I know the stubby just screws onto the base. It's a clip for the edge of the hood or an enclosure

 

[Ironmike]

@Ironmike, I see Midland has a couple different antennas for these. One is longer (I think 6db gain?) and the other is a stubby that looks to be about half the diameter of a beer can and is 3db gain if I'm not mistaken.

Since I intend to go with the MXT575 (50 watts), I'll use the longer 6db unit. In either case, do you know if the antenna are easily removable or are they a PITA to remove and replace?

very easy to install, configure, replace, etc

 

[Ironmike]

Here's a recently started 6G thread on the topic of mounting the 575. Might be worth following for those interested in this radio. Apparently the larger head unit complicates things.

MXT575 Mounting Ideas

 

[CJohnson2000]

Installing a two-way radio is a great mod to have on your list! I recently put one in my setup, and it’s been awesome for trips and off-road adventures. I used a uhf two way radio from Radio Warehouse, and the install was pretty straightforward once I watched a good video guide.

I found that having a solid radio setup really helps with communication, especially in areas where cell service isn’t reliable. The video you shared looks helpful—I bet it’ll make your install a breeze!