If you want to spend your time clarifying everyone when they speak up use SSB.
SSB is more suitable for long range 1 to 1. You can get a better CB or maybe a better mic.

 

All you need is the entry-level tech license, and you are correct, code is no longer required.

 

I agree with almost everything said already. I have an old Cobra 148 GTL with SSB I bought for $50 and I love it. It's great for getting off the main CB channels, away from the cludder. Limited to 4 Watts on the AM channels, you get 12 watts (PEP) of output with SSB. That means you can reachout further if you need to talk with someone else with a SSB radio.

Since not everybody that wheels has a HAM License, the CB can connect to anyone else for minimal cost and effort. Just lend them a handheld with an externally mounted antenna, and you're talking with no license requirements. And you can take a handheld on a hike while someone stays with the cars and use the vehicle mounted radio as a base.

Having said that: I wish everyone would get a technician class HAM License and we could all talk on 2 meters VHF (144-148 MHz). That would be the best situation.

 

My "Cool Tech Ultramount CB Ant. Kit" should be here by Saturday. I'll post a few photos of my setup when I get her done. Thanks for all the replies, now you guys got me thinking about getting my HAM lic. and putting in a 2meter. I have a old one of those also, a handheld Kenwood TH-215A.

 

I have both. I have a Uniden Pro510 mounted over the mirror and a Kenwood TM-271A on the side of the transmission hump. Great set up!

 

Sorry I came in the end of this post but
FWIW, Iv got a Cobra 18 WST II which has the weather channels built into it sitting on the drivers side of the counsel and running into a Ultra mount with a 4' Firestik and a Yaesu handheld on one of the dash vents..

Also have an old Cobra SSB in the garage that I thought about putting in the Jeep but there isnt as much usage as there was.

 

If you don't want to take the time to put the SSB rig in the jeep just to not hear anybody, try just setting it up in the garage at first with a wire if you don't have an extra antenna. You live in a pretty populated area, I would be willing to bet that if you listen in on channel 30-40 you'll find a few guys still using it.

 

Dave, I m thinking about putting it back in anyway as it has been reworked a little.
The unit in there now is a Cobra 18 WSTII with the weather bands but Iv got the HT for that.
Might be an interesting combo.
The way they are set up it wouldnt be hard to change out.