MMMMM HAM

[Bult4mud]

I know there is a bunch of Ham operators on here maybe we should make a list so when we are on the trail or what have you we know eachothers call signs??

KD8HLT

[WhiteRhino]

KD8EGK

[Bult4mud]

so just one other nerd on here

[phittie1100]

I had a member call me before the Quarterly asking about frequencies and repeaters in the WB area - all Greek to me, but I didn't have a spot either here or over on GL4x4 to steer him to to get the information. Is there a website for loacal HAM users with that kind of information, or some other source?

[WhiteRhino]

I know there is a bunch of Ham operators on here maybe we should make a list so when we are on the trail or what have you we know eachothers call signs??

KD8HLT


hahaha........... a policeman's call sign is KD8-HALT:lmao:

[JerryD]

hahaha........... a policeman's call sign is KD8-HALT:lmao:
That's pretty good! I recently changed mine, but I may be changing it yet again...

N2JPZ ;)

[kb8ymf]

Great idea on the list. Previous club I belonged to had a business card size list that had everyone's call sign on. We should do that plus add the repeator freq's we would normally use in the areas we wheel in.
For instance WB would be 146.94, it's also ironic that in Canada, Gitchee Gumee area is ALSO 146.94. I think Gaylord is 147.180 but will have to check. Bay City area, i.e. travelling TO our wheeling spot is 147.13 which used to be a pretty high profile machine. There's also the LINK system in MIchigan which is primarialy on the west side of the state but will hook you up from South Bend Indiana to the UP?
jim-kb8ymf

[Deathdealer]

KD8HLU - I will probably be going to my dad's old call sign sometime in the future tho

[lgottler]

Losers.....I have Verizon Wireless on my work phone. So I get helicopters, trucks, guys that pop up out of man hole covers and I even think I saw a tank in one commercial. Beat that!

[JerryD]

Losers.....I have Verizon Wireless on my work phone. So I get helicopters, trucks, guys that pop up out of man hole covers and I even think I saw a tank in one commercial. Beat that!
http://www.asu.edu/clubs/amateur_radio_society/events/contests/collegiateqsoparty04/chicks_dig.jpg

'nuff said.


:thumb:

[WhiteRhino]

http://www.asu.edu/clubs/amateur_radio_society/events/contests/collegiateqsoparty04/chicks_dig.jpg

'nuff said.


:thumb:

Lucas, I think he called you.:lmao:

[lgottler]

Well, I have no problem with that because of the pic. I apologize....:)

[brewmenn]

KD8JTZ.

but that might change.

[JerryD]

KD8JTZ.

but that might change.
:thumb:

[JerryD]

So, I did some searching a while back, and to summarize this post and those I found...



K1QD ...... OldSailor ..... Bob
KB8YMF .... kb8ymf ........ Jim (KB8YXZ's OM) :)
KB8YXZ .... not online .... Kim M.
KC8AMH .... GL08JK ........ Steve
KC8TWL .... kc8twl ........ Chris
KC8LSM .... signman ....... Paul
KD8CDQ .... Brian ......... Brian
KD8CXP .... Zookeeper ..... Ari
KD8DWY .... Ironwoman ..... Kim
KD8EDH .... DDS4X4 ........ Doug
KD8EGK .... WhiteRhino .... Jim
KD8HLT .... Bult4mud ...... James
KD8HLU .... Deathdealer ... Kirk
KD8JTZ .... brewmenn ...... Bruce
KD8NFX .... oz97tj ........ JR
KD8NHC .... Greenway ...... Gary
KD8OOL .... rtikql8 ....... Rob
KD8PAV .... phittie1100 ... Paul
N2JPZ ..... JerryD ........ Jerry
WB8AVK .... Papa .......... Jerry
WG8A ...... Capt_Nemo ..... Dan


Common Trail Frequency
CB - Ch. 4
2M - 147.47 No PL

Repeaters
Drummond Island, DeTour
146.64 No PL (Fringe)

Mounds
147.38 88.5 PL

Ogemaw County
145.41 91.5 PL
146.94 103.5 PL

Rocks and Valleys
147.2 No PL

St. Helen
145.45 No PL

Silver Lake
145.31 PL 94.8 or 145.33 PL 94.8 (Linked System)

Consult the following sites for additional repeater information:

West Side Linked Repeater System (http://www.w8hvg.org/repeatermap.htm)
Michigan Area Repeater Council (http://www.miarc.com)
and the K5EHX Repeater Search Engine (http://k5ehx.net/repeaters/qrepeater.php)


That's all I could find from previous posts. I think everyone who's posted in this thread that ISN'T a licensed ham needs to get their ticket and learn to love their basement.

Update: 11/19/10 - Added business card template in PDF.716

I've also attached a zip file that has MS Publisher files for the business card size and Avery 5388 Index card size. Having problems with Acrobat on this machine at the moment.

[DDS4X4]

Pat K

[Bult4mud]

THanks for doing that
Id think im gonna print that out and laminate it..

Dont forget OLDSAILOR - K1QD

[JerryD]

Pat K
I thought I saw somewhere that Pat hadn't done it yet & he just uses Kim's license (only under the supervision and in the presence of Ironwoman, of course).

Maybe he'll chime in...


Dont forget OLDSAILOR - K1QD
Whoops! I did! But I've updated the list in my post to include him now.

[WhiteRhino]

I thought I saw somewhere that Pat hadn't done it yet & he just uses Kim's license (only under the supervision and in the presence of Ironwoman, of course).

That is correct. Pat is only allowed to talk when his wife lets him.:lmao::lmao::lmao::lmao::lmao:

[phittie1100]

I think everyone who's posted in this thread that ISN'T a licensed ham needs to get their ticket and learn to love their basement. (Paul, Lucas...)

Someday soon...prepping for a different test this winter for a little bit different kind of license. I need to find one of those "HAM in a day classes".

[kb8ymf]

Paul,
'You don't need no stinking classes...' Neither Kim or I did, neither did WR or some others. Just buy the book, read at your own pace. Take the online test's. Get 80-90% correct answers, then go take the test. Many of us here willl get you pointed in the right direction for tests. The Flint club has them all the time, my club in Lapeer has them every month that has a 5th Saturday. That way it's all on your schedule.

Also, The list with callsigns and screen names should also have everyone's first name.
jim

[JerryD]

Also, The list with callsigns and screen names should also have everyone's first name.
jim

done

[Bult4mud]

WOW JERRY THANKS FOR ALL THE HARD WORK

[WhiteRhino]

WOW JERRY THANKS FOR ALL THE HARD WORK

Ditto!:thumb:

[kb8ymf]

Ditto!:thumb:

yep, Thanks Jerry.
One addition, although not a user here is my wife. KB8YXZ...Kim. She'll be @ Sno-fari.
The other thing I thought about including is the repeater sys up there. West Branch 146.94 PL ?? and another one that slips my mind right now. Plus there is a standard standby freq that a few of us have used which is 147.47.
Need to try and get the info before hand so we can let everyone know.
j-kb8ymf

[JerryD]

yep, Thanks Jerry.
One addition, although not a user here is my wife. KB8YXZ...Kim. She'll be @ Sno-fari.
The other thing I thought about including is the repeater sys up there. West Branch 146.94 PL ?? and another one that slips my mind right now. Plus there is a standard standby freq that a few of us have used which is 147.47.
Need to try and get the info before hand so we can let everyone know.
j-kb8ymf
I've added her. And my wife became offended when called an XYL once she learned the original meaning (http://acronyms.thefreedictionary.com/XYL). ;)

I think an informal agreement on a "common trail frequency" might be a good thing. I don't have my repeater guide handy, but 147.47 simplex sounds as good as anything else! If I have time later tonight (busy with Cub Scout Christmas party) I'll take a peek at the directory and verify if no one else does before then.

UPDATE: Added a pdf to the post with the listing. Print it out on a 3x5 card

2nd Update:
Checked the Michigan Area Repeater Council website (www.miarc.com), here's what they have for 2M in Ogemaw county...

145.410, PL 91.5
146.940, PL 103.5

[DDS4X4]

I am having HAM for Christmas.

Radio ordered and on it's way ... Merry Christmas to ME.

[DDS4X4]

We are on the air ... now to listen and learn this weekend at Snofari!

Kilo, Delta, Eight, Echo, Delta, Hotel out

[JerryD]

We are on the air ... now to listen and learn this weekend at Snofari!

Kilo, Delta, Eight, Echo, Delta, Hotel out
:thumb:

"Uh, yeah 10-4 Pig Pen, fer sure, fer sure
By golly it's clean clear to Flag-Town, C'mon "
What radio/antenna did you end up getting?

[kb8ymf]

:thumb:

"Uh, yeah 10-4 Pig Pen, fer sure, fer sure
By golly it's clean clear to Flag-Town, C'mon "
What radio/antenna did you end up getting?

I was steering him towards the Diamond SG7500. Not sure if that's the one he got. It's dual band so he can upgrade the radio in the future without getting a new antenna, it's got a decent gain, no curly in the antenna to snag tree branches, and it's pretty short relatively speaking.
Same one I've used for years.
j-kb8ymf

[Jarhead]

Hey, while all of you are figuring out what type of equipment to get in all - who can I pay to go take a test to get my license so I can stay on task douoing Association Business :sniff:

[signman]

http://www.radioreference.com/ go to the data base, then the state and then county by county:rolleyes:http://www.braarc.net/ if you were nice I might even put you up for the weekend and go wheelin on Sunday, but ya gota do it yourself
oh ya KC8LSM

[JerryD]

<snip> oh ya KC8LSM
Updated post and card. Any more HAM:s and we'll need to go to a larger card. ;)

Oh, and Bob? That BR link offers a 1-day workshop. :poke:

I don't think anybody's gonna share your "pain"....

[DDS4X4]

The solution was take your test years ago, BEFORE you accepted the head office job.

Sorry for your planning.


Please note, the above comments were made in jest!

[DDS4X4]

ICOM V8000 mobile
Diamond SG7500A antenna with Mazzola/Saul custom spring mount
ICOM V85 handheld


Jerry,
You over by GR?

[JerryD]

ICOM V8000 mobile
Diamond SG7500A antenna with Mazzola/Saul custom spring mount
ICOM V85 handheld
Gee, an MS Customs original, huh? Musta been costly. :D That V8000 packs quite a punch! I have a Kenwood TM-D700 because of APRS and the remote head, but it's max is 50w.

Great ... watt-envy...


Jerry,
You over by GR?

Yep, about 15 NE of town.

[rentalrider]

Gee, an MS Customs original, huh? Musta been costly. :D That V8000 packs quite a punch! I have a Kenwood TM-D700 because of APRS and the remote head, but it's max is 50w.

Great ... watt-envy...


Yep, about 15 NE of town.

:blahblah:I've always wanted to get into this, but for the record I now know how my wife feels when I start discussing pinions, gear ratios, backpressures, etc, etc... that last post was like clicks and grunts to me! :confused: :woot:

[JerryD]

:blahblah:I've always wanted to get into this, but for the record I now know how my wife feels when I start discussing pinions, gear ratios, backpressures, etc, etc... that last post was like clicks and grunts to me! :confused: :woot:
It's not that bad...

"Yep, about 15 NE of town."
I was explaining to Doug that I reside approximately 15 miles northeast (NE) of Grand Rapids (GR).

See? It's easy.
*grunt*
:poke:

[kb8ymf]

That V8000 packs quite a punch! I have a Kenwood TM-D700 because of APRS and the remote head, but it's max is 50w.

Great ... watt-envy....

Even more than you'd think. Advertised @ 70 and WR was putting out 80+

[DDS4X4]

Jim M,

Don't forget to send me the link for antenna parts ... seems I broke the tip off mine already ... maybe I'll buy 2!

I'll get a medium spring on its way.

Must have been from plowing the right sides of the trails!

Thanks for all your help in getting set up.

The mobile and HH worked GREAT ... just need to get more familiar with all the settings.

Thanks!

[JerryD]

Hey all, was surfin' the board (hadn't done that in a while) and found another member GL08JK (Steve) --- KC8AMH. Added him to the list in the previous post. Anybody else get their ticket? I know Paul said he wanted to, did he? Or has he been too busy counting beans? :poke:

Well, any other hams, post up your call!

[GL08JK]

Hey all, was surfin' the board (hadn't done that in a while) and found another member GL08JK (Steve) --- KC8AMH. Added him to the list in the previous post. Anybody else get their ticket? I know Paul said he wanted to, did he? Or has he been too busy counting beans? :poke:

Well, any other hams, post up your call!

Somewhat new to the board over the last several months, but not new to ham...lol. Just checking in...Steve KC8AMH

[Greenway]

Time to resurrect a dead thread.

I got the Diamond SG7500A antenna now I need to see a Mazzola/Saul custom spring mount for it.

[DDS4X4]

I can get some picks and maybe some parts numbers from ???
I managed a straight bolt up instalation with a combination of SS antenna mounting parts for a CB.
I'll have to dig out the details.

[JerryD]

(Well, it's time to get rid of the "you haven't posted in a while" nag up at the top...)

I updated the post to include Oz & Gary... still waiting on Paul and a few others that say 'yeah, I been meanin' to...' :poke:

I also added a few of the repeaters that cover some of the common areas in the LP.

Cheers all....

[phittie1100]

Yeah, I have been meaning to but.....

[rtikql8]

A couple MSG'ers are hams now... :woot:

I just passed the test today and Dan Smith passed a month or so ago. I'll post a call sign as soon as I know it.

Can't wait to get on the air and get comfortable with the rig!

We will be playing with them at DOA this year too!

[WhiteRhino]

Congrats Rob.

[DDS4X4]

Congratulations to you new HAMs :thumb:

[kb8ymf]

A couple MSG'ers are hams now... :woot:

I just passed the test today and Dan Smith passed a month or so ago. I'll post a call sign as soon as I know it.

Can't wait to get on the air and get comfortable with the rig!

We will be playing with them at DOA this year too!

Congrats guys. You DO have to start needling the girls to get their license also. Kim is used ALL THE TIME when have things going on.

j-kb8ymf

[rtikql8]

Another name for your list...

Rob Pionk - KD8OOL :thumb:

[rtikql8]

Any writeups / pics of that antenna mod to add a spring for the 7500? plus I would like to see how everyone is mounting there Ham antenna in relation to their CB antenna on a Jeep (JK specifically)

Thanks in advance for any info!

[JerryD]

Another name for your list...

Rob Pionk - KD8OOL :thumb:

:yourock:

Added to the list! :thumb:

[Capt_Nemo]

My call sign in WG8A

Dan Smith

[OldSailor]

Any writeups / pics of that antenna mod to add a spring for the 7500? plus I would like to see how everyone is mounting there Ham antenna in relation to their CB antenna on a Jeep (JK specifically)

I can't help with the JK, but most Jeeps will have about the same radiation pattern.

I have a CJ7 that has a Wilderness rear bumper, tire carrier, and cargo rack combination. Don't have pictures, but will try to take some tomorrow. I have my CB antenna (a 4-foot fiberglass one) mounted on the top back (forward plane) of the tire carrier on the driver's side. My 2-meter antenna (42" 5/8-wave base load) mounted on the same place on the passenger side. That seems to work well and they don't seem to interfer with each other. VSWR on both antennae are OK. Both antennas stick up about 18 " to 24" above the top of the soft top. I have a 12" 1/4-wave 2-meter antenna that I replace the long antenna with if I don't need the range and there is a lot of overhanging tree branches--the "shortie" antenna is below the top of the soft top.

[JerryD]

Got you added to the list, Dan! :thumb:



I can't help with the JK, but most Jeeps will have about the same radiation pattern.

I have a CJ7 that has a Wilderness rear bumper, tire carrier, and cargo rack combination. Don't have pictures, but will try to take some tomorrow. I have my CB antenna (a 4-foot fiberglass one) mounted on the top back (forward plane) of the tire carrier on the driver's side. My 2-meter antenna (42" 5/8-wave base load) mounted on the same place on the passenger side. That seems to work well and they don't seem to interfer with each other. VSWR on both antennae are OK. Both antennas stick up about 18 " to 24" above the top of the soft top. I have a 12" 1/4-wave 2-meter antenna that I replace the long antenna with if I don't need the range and there is a lot of overhanging tree branches--the "shortie" antenna is below the top of the soft top.

You don't have either one spring-mounted, do you? I assume the at least the 2-meter isn't because you swap out to a shortie, but one shouldn't assume. ;) Just curious...

[OldSailor]

Neither one of them is spring mounted. The fiberglass CB antenna is fairly flexible, and the 2-mtr antenna has the whip formed in the shape of a coil for about 2 inches just above the loading section. In any event, spring loading wouldn't serve much use, since the antennas are mounted to the forward aspect of the tire carrier. Thus, as soon as they are bent rearward a few inches, they contact the top of the cargo carrier.

I'll try to take some pictures today. Then, I'll have to figure out how to post them on this forum.

[DDS4X4]

Now that Kevin has me off the BLOCKED list and I read his note why I couldn't access this thread because of the ...
I will attempt to post my install pics. Both CB and HAM are spring mounted.
I can provide the antenna Make(s) and model(s) upon request.
This 2-M antenna was tested in the UP and Canada and is very flexible and survived the branches!
All mounting parts are SS and ordered from Firestik Antenna Company www.firestik.com


Obvious FAIL, I can't seem to manage the MANAGE ATTACHMENTS. HELP???

Somebody must have FIXED something, now it works ... I think?

:woot::woot:

[WhiteRhino]

Doug, how big are your attachments? They have to be resized down to 1024 x 768 or maybe 800 x 600.

[oz97tj]

I find its easiest to load your pictures in a free account on photobucket and just post up that way.

[Greenway]

Any writeups / pics of that antenna mod to add a spring for the 7500? plus I would like to see how everyone is mounting there Ham antenna in relation to their CB antenna on a Jeep (JK specifically)

Thanks in advance for any info!

For some reason these pictures are getting chopped down so just the CB antenna shows. For the full pics, go to my photobucket antenna page. (http://s620.photobucket.com/albums/tt285/tomjefferson/Jeep/Antennae/)

I didn't put a spring on the 2 meter because it's braced front to back by the roof and the spare tire.

http://i620.photobucket.com/albums/tt285/tomjefferson/Jeep/Antennae/P3230013.jpg

http://i620.photobucket.com/albums/tt285/tomjefferson/Jeep/Antennae/P3230003c.jpg

http://i620.photobucket.com/albums/tt285/tomjefferson/Jeep/Antennae/P3230005c.jpg

http://i620.photobucket.com/albums/tt285/tomjefferson/Jeep/Antennae/P3230006c.jpg

http://i620.photobucket.com/albums/tt285/tomjefferson/Jeep/Antennae/P3230008c.jpg

[DDS4X4]

For my pics, now you can see them at Post # 58. :thumb:

[phittie1100]

Paul's pre-purchase questions:

Are all of you that are running the Diamond 7500 still happy with your purchase? Doug seems to break his often, but might be due to his mounting location. Anyone running anything sturdier, I am not known for my finesse offroad driving skills. Any tips on mounting?

Everything is on sale right now, putting several dual-band radios in my price range. But most seem to lack the peak power (45-50 watts) output of some of the single band radios (75 watts). If I have to choose cake or pie, which one?

[JerryD]

Holy Cow! Did you finally sit the exam? *gasp* ;)

Can't say about the antenna, but 50 watts is plenty of power for most situations. Antenna will matter; for 2M, a 5/8 wave (~48" length) is probably too big for the trail, but would likely reach out further. A 1/2 wave (I think the 7500 is 1/2) is better among the branches, and is most likely more than enough for probably 99% of trail runs. I don't feel that power is what limits most mobile 2M operation, it's more antenna and antenna mounting.

I like a full dual-band operation radio for a few reasons, but one area it shines is when I monitor/utilize one side and keep the other side dedicated to a certain repeater or different band.

My .02...

EDIT: clarification

[oz97tj]

I have a Diamond NR770. Its basically a metal whip with the curly thing in the center of it. It's also got a built in spring mount in the base of it that will give way if need be. It's very flexible and I don't see breaking it.

Jim M. has talking about getting stuff caught in the curly section, but if it's mounted on the back of the vehicle on your tire carrier (center of vehicle) with the top sticking above the roof, you don't have the problem. Mine only sticks above my roof line about 8 inches now and I get good range. I am thinking about raising it for more distance, but I could raise it up another 15 inches before that curly part would be a concern.

[OldSailor]

I have the Diamond NR770 antenna on my CJ7. If I remember correctly, it's about 40" long. When I had it mounted so that about 2 feed stuck up over the roof line, I would break it just about every other trip (other than on the dunes). I've since moved it lower on the Winderness Spare tire carrier/rack, so that now only about 6 to 8 inches sticks up past the roof line. I've only broken it once since then.

BTW, that NR770 is a 5/8-wave antenna. Diamond also makes another antenna of the same type that is only a 1/4 wave long -- the physical length is about 12 inches. It works surprisingly well (with a 50-watt tranceiver) and the top of it is actually a few inches below the roofline. I can't remember the model number, but it's on Diamond's Website. BTW, Universal Radio in Ohio (a suburb of Columbus) can get any Diamond antenna to you in a couple of days here in Michigan.

[DDS4X4]

CONGRATS on passing ... you HAM you!

The Diamond 7500 is a GREAT antenna, you nailed my problem - mounting location, but that worked for me/balanced out where my CB antenna was. I have not had a problem on the trails sionce I have switched to the single SS whip. It still gets out BUT I have not tested it for long distance, as Jim M has suggested. The testing is on the list, just haven't made it a priority. I still carry the 7500 as a spare.

I have not checked out the 770 as JR suggests, again mounting is key for trail use. With access to my liftgate to open, center mounting doesn't seem practical on WJ/XJ.

Catch ya on the air sometime.

[DDS4X4]

Our friend in Flushing, MI has done a fine job in keeping me supplied on short notice.
He is the one that made the suggestion regarding going to the SS whip, seems he sells them to bear hunters that like to run the forest roads (aka - tree branches).

DENTRONICS
w8qwl@juno.com
6102 Deland Road
Flushing, MI 48433
Voice:810-659-1776
Fax:810-659-1280

But Columbus, OH is where I picked up my radio(s).

[WhiteRhino]

I also have the 7500. It has always had a spring mount and I have broken it twice. I now have a spare in my trailer. When I broke the first one, it was mounted on the rear corner of my jeep. I then moved it to the center of the tailgate and never had a problem for a very long time. Then, I mounted my spare tire rack and didn't relocate the antenna and I pinched it. Really that was my stupid fault since I have an alternative bracket on my spare tire rack. I just didn't bother to move it. Shame on me. I have not tested any other antenna so I can't suggest an alternative.

RE dual band or single band and output power. For me, I don't see the need for the dual band "IF" your intended purpose is getting long range with your wheeling friends. (which was mine) I would rather have the reach. My radio is a 75 watt that tests almost 90 on the meter. I've communicated with KB8YMF a VERY long ways in Canada through rough terrain. To me, that's more important. However, if you're planning on doing more of the social HAMMing, maybe the dual band is for you.

[oz97tj]

How the heck did you break the 770? I've "tested" mine by bending the darn thing completely back and it just springs back. If you pull it far enough, the spring deal in the base pops out so it doesn't break. With it mounted the way it is now, it barely ever even touches branches. Did you have it mounted in the center of the vehicle, or two one of the sides?

Gary Greenway and myself stopped at Dentronics one day. Real nice guy. He wasn't actually open when we were going by, but he allowed us in anyway because we were passing through and I called first. It helps that his shop is the backside of his garage.

As for reach, I have the Yeasu 8800R dual bander with 50 watts. I haven't really screwed with it in Canada like Jim K. has, but I've transmitted on repeaters a couple times that were a good 30 to 40 miles away. I'm not setting any records there, but I was happy with that. When I was learning about the radios though, there was always talk of hitting satallites and such. Has anyone done this or know how to? I would think if we could do that than the extra 25 watts of power wouldn't be needed anyway. So, how the heck does that work out?

[JerryD]

... I would rather have the reach. My radio is a 75 watt that tests almost 90 on the meter.

Well, you could have both and add an amp (http://www.mirageamp.com/Product.php?productid=B-320-G) to the mix...

[shawn]

Does anyone think it is possible I can study and pass the test before SnoFari? What book do I need to use to study for? Are there practice questions I need to use? Would like to get a set up going before Snofari, they come in quite handy on these runs.

[phittie1100]

Passed the test last week, just waiting for the FCC to do its thing.

Unfortunately Jerry that amp would not leave me with enough cash to plug anything into it!

I am leaning toward the dual band rigs vs the higher output. Quick and easy access to local simplex frequency and a repeater would be a plus on trail runs. Another consideration is long-range emergency communications, especially for our annual fishing trip to Ontario where we are 10 miles from a road...but only 15 air miles from the repeater in White River, so I think the lower power output on the dual band radios in my price range should still do the job.

[phittie1100]

Does anyone think it is possible I can study and pass the test before SnoFari? What book do I need to use to study for? Are there practice questions I need to use? Would like to get a set up going before Snofari, they come in quite handy on these runs.

I used hamtestonline.com - $20 subscription, includes interactive study guide plus practice tests that remember you - you can set up a practice test that only hits the questions you struggled with during the study guide portion, for example. I started 14 days before I took the test, spent maybe .5-1.0 hrs per day. I flunked P2 in college - Electricity and Magnetism - and still passed, so anyone can. The class I tested with in Davison had a 12 year-old in it.

[oz97tj]

I used hamtestonline.com - $20 subscription, includes interactive study guide plus practice tests that remember you - you can set up a practice test that only hits the questions you struggled with during the study guide portion, for example. I started 14 days before I took the test, spent maybe .5-1.0 hrs per day. I flunked P2 in college - Electricity and Magnetism - and still passed, so anyone can. The class I tested with in Davison had a 12 year-old in it.

I also used hamtestonline. I did read a book about 6 months earlier but never took the test. So I went to that site and took a bunch of free practice tests until I was passing them all.

If I had it to do all over again I would study for the general too. You pay the same fee to take one test or all three. And from what I understand, general isn't that much more to learn. I looked at the general test but seeing as I wasn't prepared, it might as well have been written in swahili.

[WhiteRhino]

To me, the amp in the jeep is just another big dollar thing to worry about. I'm all about simplicity. With that, again, if you're only planning on using the HAM as a high powered CB, going for the higher licensing doesn't make much sense.

I studied with a book........... which reminds me, it's loaned out right now. Time to send an email reminder.

[JerryD]

Congrats on passing, Paul!

Jim, I agree. Even if the cost of the amp were insignificant, you're adding complexity that is best left at base camp or back home. In fact, a single band 2M that has very basic controls, fan-less operation and is rugged might be best for a trail vehicle. Having a bunch of features and endless menus to change things can be a nuisance if not a distraction.

[oz97tj]

To me, the amp in the jeep is just another big dollar thing to worry about. I'm all about simplicity. With that, again, if you're only planning on using the HAM as a high powered CB, going for the higher licensing doesn't make much sense.

I studied with a book........... which reminds me, it's loaned out right now. Time to send an email reminder.

The test question pool changed this summer so your book may be outdated now

[DDS4X4]

But the basic knowledge to pass the test would still be in the book.
Another study guide.

[Greenway]

I passed Oz's book on to GerkTJ. We need to bug him to get around to it.

[oz97tj]

But the basic knowledge to pass the test would still be in the book.
Another study guide.

True. I just know it helped to know what questions asked. Who wants to know more than they need to? lol

[phittie1100]

KD8PAV

[oz97tj]

KD8PAV

Woo Hoo!!!!!

[JerryD]

:thumb:

Updated the list, too.

[JerryD]

... Previous club I belonged to had a business card size list that had everyone's call sign on. We should do that plus add the repeator freq's we would normally use in the areas we wheel in...

Updated list and added a PDF that can be printed on business card stock (2x10 per 8"x11")

[phittie1100]

The card-sized file is a great idea, thanks Jerry!

[DDS4X4]

See referenced PDF at Post #15 on Page 2 of this thread.

Thanks!

Now if my old eyes will be able to read it??

Previously I have printed the list and re-sized it, then attached it to the back of my driver's visor, for reference "On the Trail".

[JerryD]

Doug, I prefer the index card myself. I'm having problems with Acrobat so I can't make an easy printout, but I've uploaded a zip file with the Microsoft Publisher files. However, it doesn't seem to be posting. Maybe it's moderated since it's a zip.

Cheers,
Jerry