Category Archives: Building
Overhaul Phase 3: Amps, Feed Lines, and January VHF Contest
I had shared that the amplifiers I was shopping had been on perpetual back-order since 2020. The supplier continually moved the availability back another few months each time that their expected ship date approached. I found another brand of amps … Continue reading
Rooftop Antenna Tower w/Rotator!
If you’ve been watching my site, then you’re aware that I’ve been slowly building a VHF contest Rover. I’m documenting my process on my new “Rover” page. My coverage there is brief; so, this entry will share more details about … Continue reading
Electronics Overhaul!
I receive a lot of compliments regarding the level of detail and workmanship on my electronics panel. However, something interesting happens over the course of time as equipment is either added or changed, in this car as well as two … Continue reading
Adapting the Factory Antenna Hole to NMO
When it comes to automobiles and ham radio, there are those who will do whatever it takes to make their radio station operate at its best and those who will compromise the radio’s performance for cosmetic reasons. With my Mk3, … Continue reading
Ham Radio Updates
I’ve been neglectful, but busy. I’ve enjoyed making YouTube videos and publishing every week. However, spending so much time making videos meant that the writing on my website had fallen behind; plus, the more time I spend creating, the less … Continue reading
Orion-Tr Smart 12|12-30 360-Watt DC-DC Charger
A car’s alternator is NOT appropriate for charging LiFePo4 batteries. First, it’s output voltage is not quite correct; nor, is it intended to charge two batteries (starter and aux) with differing chemistries at the same time. Next, and perhaps more … Continue reading
100-Ah Lithium Iron Phosphate Secondary Battery
This year is the first time in many years that I spent a lot of time using my ham radios. As much as I like to drive, operating on the HF bands often requires log work, especially during contests or … Continue reading
Scorpion SA-680 Black Widow 10-80m Antenna
I had a long weekend commute on quiet highways from 2006-2009. Surfing the HF bands was a great way to help the drive pass. I was using a Yaesu ATAS-120A at the time. Performance-wise, it can be described as “adequate, … Continue reading