CB Antenna - parts list clarification needed

[60mg]

So I got me a present for new year -a Cobra 19dx IV. Now came the time to buy an antenna for it but as I started looking at what's out there it became confusing to me what parts I do and don't need. Mounts, adapters, wire extensions (that are for some reason requiring some more extra parts to make it work), etc. so the question is - what do I actually need to hook it up considering that I'll need an cable extension of about 15-18 feet. Any ideas, recommendations, suggestions? Thank you guys in advance.

 

[JPNinPA]

Firestick II are good antennas - 2 to 4 ft is good. Smaller is harder to tune than longer but less likely to catch trees.
A Heavy Duty Spring - Let it flex should it get caught on anything like trees.
Rear brake light mount - common mounting point.

There are packages like this - http://www.rightchannelradios.com/firestik-cb-antenna-110/firestik-fs-cb-antenna-kit-single-antenna-296.html

1.) Avoid running antenna wire where it will be flexed, or pinched, sharp turns or rubbed. Any extra wire do not make a circle out of it. These things will change the performance or the radio and can lead to damaged components.

2.) The mount needs to be grounded to teh tub. This may mean sanding some paint off the mount or tub. Mant times the mounting screws do a good enough job.

3.) Be sure to tune the antenna after you have it all set and prior to using the radio. You will need or borrow a SWR meter. Use a Multimeter to verify the antenna tip is isolated from the mount. See link below on testing continuity.
4.) Also wire the power and ground for the radio directly to the battery with an inline fuse. Minimizes noise.

Here is a good site with good amount to read if you want to learn. - http://www.firestik.com/Tech_Docs.htm

 

[NiteDog]

Another great source for CB/Ham radio info found here:

CB Radio Antenna Installation
He also has some great write ups on multiple Jeep topics. 8)