CB & Center Console

May 1998

Background | Installation | Cost | Postscript

Background

After completely stripping and refinishing the interior, I needed to install the new CB. In the process, I decided that I also needed some kind of center console to hold most of my stuff.

Installation

I found a Rubbermade tool box that fit perfectly between the front seats. It was large enough that it would hold most of my tools and it could accept a lock if neccessary. It was also water proof which is a good thing in an open Jeep.

This set up worked great and gave me a place to mount the CB where it is easy to reach and out of the way. I chose the same CB I used in the XJ: The Uniden Pro 520XL.

The antenna is mounted on the rear bumper and goes up right next to the fuel filler cap. For a quick and dirty solution, I used the 4' fiberglass antenna that came with the Jeep. After a little testing, I was not happy with the antenna and replaced it with a 4' Wilson Silver Load. The reception is much better now.

Cost

CB

$50

Antenna

$20

Speaker

$20

Total

$90

Console

$15

Postscript

5/98: After a little time driving around, I decided that I needed to do something about the volume on the CB. With the speaker facing the console and the wind noise with the top off, I couldn't hear anything on the radio. Luckily, these models have a jack for an external speaker. I bought a 4" speaker from Radio Shack and built a wooden box to hold it. I then mounted it to the roll cage just behind the drivers seat. I can hear it great now.