Squash1247

Hi All,

I recently completed a project where I installed an Icom ham radio in my truck. Below is the brief summary of the install along with a few pics.

I wanted to install a radio in as "stealth" a way as possible. With traditional ham radios this can be difficult if you're not using a detachable face model. I choose to go with an Icom IC-208h for this very reason. I've had this model in my previous truck so I had some experience with it.

Here are the details:

-Icom base unit installed in center console
-Detachable face installed in Sunglass holder
-Antenna NMO mount in roof near third brake light
-Power run to new fuse block installed with Upfitter switches (no I did not use a switch for power as its not recommended).
-External speaker installed in center console tray with ability to pull out if needed.

Uses for the radio:
-Primary: scanning railroad frequencies
-Secondary: Off-road communication
-Tertiary: Emergency

Here are the pics:

Squash1247

Antenna:

Squash1247

Upfitter switches: For those interested

Mustangdavey

Very nice install. I thought about the sunglasses case for my Yaesu FT-857D, but still didn't put a rig in my new truck yet. How did you route the cable through the headliner?

desync0

I 2nd the nice install!

Makes me want to get the remote kit when I get around to putting in my Kenwood.

Squash1247

Its pretty simple, I pulled the dome light assembly down which also contains the sunglass holder. Once I did this i was able to feed the cable through a small gap. I also had to pull the sun visor down and the clip that it snaps into. Then i simply pulled the a-pillar cover off and routed the cable around the air bag. was quite simple once I stated pulling it apart. Hope that helps!

JB

gturcotte

Very nice install. I'm thinking of installing a ham radio in my truck, I sold all my ham radio gear 2 years ago. I may buy some equipment.

I really like those Auxiliary switches. Are these the F250 OEM?

Where did you get it and how much?
Is the installation plug and play? The main concern is where to get the power.

Good job!

68ss396

Here is my kenwood radio in my work truck. I too scan the railroad frequency. I work for the railroad.

Squash1247

The switches are from Tasca Parts and yes they're for a 2011 and up F250. I had to make my own fuse block as the connector on the harness does not plug-n-play with an F150. I think I paid $145 for the switches and the harness delivered off ebay. I will attach a few pic of where I got power but like I said, it was not plug-n-play but once I figured our where the wires needed to go it was relatively simple. I used a couple different wiring diagrams to figure out the wire color, etc.

I can try to walk you through the process if you're interested in doing it yourself.

Pic 1 shows the quick connects that I put in coming form inside the cab where the fuse bock and harness are located. I have an extra set available for the Aux 2 switch. Aux 1 goes to my Rigid fog lights.

Pic 2 shows the fused #8 wire that runs from the battery to the fuse block located in the cab behind the passenger side kick-plate.

Pic 3 is the fuse block i used. Worth the money.

If you would like more pics I can get them.

BWilliams

VERY interested. Did you just cut a piece of ABS or kydex and stick it there, or how was they mounted?