Expedition Modded Jeeps - Let's see 'em!!
04-27-2016, 01:55 PM
#5901
JK Enthusiast
Yes and no. That is, in that video everyone is on CB. However, here in the OK area we organized a ham radio class for overlanders, so have a bunch who are adding mostly two meter rigs to their vehicles. I (being an old Tech licensee back when Morse code was required) was grandfathered to a General license, so can also use HF voice. So I'm working on integrating a DC to daylight radio that will cover the ham bands from 160 meters to 75 centimeters. Intent is to have 2 meters and 75 centimeters when driving--that's where most of the repeaters are--and have the lower frequencies for long range communications when camped. Right now I don't intend to add an HF antenna to my Jeep. Instead I will carry a Budipole and erect it in camp when needed. I have most of the parts right now, but not sure I'll have it up and running before my Alaska trip. May have to wait until after that.
04-28-2016, 01:47 AM
#5902
JK Jedi Master
For me, the primary interest is having an emergency long range radio, which is why the general class license is nice. I've checked a couple repeater maps of some of the areas I travel, and there just aren't any. So the higher frequencies (which are line-of-sight) at which technician class licensees can operate voice, are not as useful in those situations. A tech class could operate Morse code on the HF frequencies, but he'd have to know it (I do, though I'd need to brush up on speed skill), and he'd have to be hauling the gear for it. Of course, in a genuine emergency situation anyone can operate any radio frequency in any mode. But, that wouldn't include a lot of situations where you'd like to just call for some help or advice--not true life or limb emergencies.
Bottom line, I think when you have a group of five or six vehicles, having one or two licensed general (or higher) class hams with HF radios is a nice add. However, today's tech also permits several satellite-based solutions that don't require special licenses. I have friends who have rented satellite phones (pretty expensive, especially if you actually talk over it) and rescue satellite beacons (generally must buy hardware and pay an annual subscription fee).
04-30-2016, 04:19 PM
#5904
Front Runner Outfitters had an open house today and a scratch and dent sale to go with it. I scored a JKU Cargo Slider for $150.00. Yes, that is correct, a savings of $320.00. It took as long for me to unload the Jeep as it did to install it. I was wanting just a fridge slider but I just couldn't pass up this deal. What was wrong with it? UPS or FedEx had dropped the box and two of the mounting feet were bent. Less than a minute to straighten both. What a great find!
http://www.frontrunneroutfitters.com...gler-mkii.html
http://www.frontrunneroutfitters.com...gler-mkii.html
Last edited by kmrtnsn; 04-30-2016 at 04:27 PM.
05-01-2016, 02:00 PM
#5909
I got out and was able to do some camping this weekend. Nothing special just a quick getaway with some friends. Forgot to take any pics until I was leaving. Packed up and headed home.
05-01-2016, 03:27 PM
#5910
JK Newbie
Picked up a jumping jack, enough room for the whole family, will be using it in a couple weeks for May long weekend and throughout the week exploring southern BC.
