RF Grounding and Bonding

[N3AJF]

Hi all,

Searched and couldn't find anything about this topic.

I'm a ham radio operator, and I'm interested in installing a HF radio in my Maverick. It is likely that the RF ground will not be sufficient, and some work will need to be done to run some grounding braids.

Was wondering if anyone has gone through the process of grounding and bonding?

Also, what is the right materials to use to avoid galvanic corrosion?

Please note than an electrical (DC) ground and an RF ground are not the same.

Thanks.

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[canuckford]

Are you planning on using the HAM radio while in motion?
I've never had a HAM radio but I knew someone who did, however it was a base station (in a house).
Just read up a little about your question and found that not all HAM antenna's require earth ground, but if yours does, I read people tieing to the chassis, using tinned copper braid.

 

[SafetyGuy]

This thread may be of assistance, and also someone who may be able to help...

Hope this is of assistance,

Andy

 

[N3AJF]

Are you planning on using the HAM radio while in motion?

Yes.

I've never had a HAM radio but I knew someone who did, however it was a base station (in a house).
Just read up a little about your question and found that not all HAM antenna's require earth ground, but if yours does, I read people tieing to the chassis, using tinned copper braid.

It's important for HF operation because on bands like 20m, 40m etc, even a quarter wave antenna is impractically large to mount vertically on a vehicle. It's really not so much a "ground plane" as it is a counterpoise - effectively the truck itself becomes part of the antenna which lets you use a shorter antenna (base or center loaded). This is why bonding is important because it ensures the truck is acting as a single counterpoise - better radiating efficiency and less noise.

This site will tell you all about it: KØBG.COM

My question was less about whether I "need to" - I will - more that I want to avoid issues with galvanic corrosion.

 

[N3AJF]

This thread may be of assistance, and also someone who may be able to help...

Hope this is of assistance,

Andy

I literally posted in that thread with my own current setup. That thread is not a HF install and as such there's no mention of the topic of grounding or bonding...

 

[canuckford]

Got it, I do remember back in the CB days, it was recommended to put the antenna at the center of roof for this reason.

 

[N3AJF]

Got it, I do remember back in the CB days, it was recommended to put the antenna at the center of roof for this reason.

Yes this is the ideal case. Unfortunately, that isn't always practical especially when you have multiple antennae or you simply don't want to cut a hole in the roof (or use a mag mount).

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