I might be way off base (unit) here but...

Are you trying to use a 2 Meter 5/8 wave amateur band (HAM) antenna meant for 144-147MHz on a CB radio that operates from 26.965 -27.405MHz? That won't work. You will never be able to tune that in.

Bigger is not necessarily better when it comes to antennas. Sure, for CB a full-wave 36' tall antenna is the best you can do if you are using the earth as your ground plane (fixed tower). Many say you should use a 108" 1/4 wave (note: antenna is either 102" or 104" with the remainder of the 108" made up of the spring). An antenna's effeciency is ultimately a function of its resonance. That's why you can have a fairly effecient 8" on a hand-held. Any CB antenna shorter 36 feet (full wave) and grounded directly to the earth (fixed) is a compromise.

And speaking of ground plane or "couterpoise" as it is also known... trying to transmit without a proper counterpoise is like trying to clap with only one hand.

 

You are correct that steel belted radials have steel in them but because the steel is:

1) not grounded to the body/frame/counterpoise and
2) hopefully not of such a length as to be electrically resonant at CB radio frequencies,

the steel belts should not interfere.

 

All I ever read or heard so far, says that tires do pose a problem.
The last one who said it is an expert on Rx/Tx.
But... I'm open minded to learn something new and change my mind.
When I eventually get to mount my antenna, I'll compare behind/above the spare...
I do hope you're right, as this means that the antenna will be lower.

 

nope, 2 meter rig was on 2 meter firestick.

 

Which model Firestik are you using? I have never heard of a Firestik 2 meter for CB. If it is a 2M-4 it's the wrong antenna for CB. That's a great HAM antenna.

If the model starts with KW, FS, FL or RP then it is a CB antenna and will work just fine (for CB).

CB and HAM (along with Muti Use Radio Service, and Railroad) operate at very different frequencies and the antennas are not compatible. An antenna has to be resonant to the wavelength it is transmitting.

Am I still misconstruing what you are saying?

 

Nothing?

Some Firestik mobile models and usage:
CB (27MHz) 11M typically used for short-distance CB, no license up to 4 Watt (more watts more distance)
Firestik
Firestik II
Firestik II USA
FireFly
RoadPal

HAM (144-148MHz) 2M local communication up to about 100 miles
5/8 wave
1/4 wave

HAM/voice (28-29.7MHz) 10M CW & SSB worldwide communication, especially with the help of sun-spot inonization
5/8 wave

 

Ya I think you misunderstood him lol

He was having issues with a firestik meant for 2m, with a 2m radio, not CB related at all.