Mobile FRS Radio

[KG PackRat]

What radios can be modified to work on the FRS or GMRS radio frequencies, if any? Also, if this can be done, is there a way to make it work with the "security" codes used on some radios?

[Pocono Redneck]

FRS/GMRS are UHF radios operating from 462-467 Mhz

Any UHF radio that covers those freqs can operate on them. I have my GMRS license and use Icom F221's for base and mobile which put out 45 watts (max allowed is 50 on GMRS if you are licensed) There are other radios you may find to be better, but these are loud and clear.

FRS channels allow only 1/2 watt!

A GMRS license costs like 75 bucks for five years --BUT it covers your entire family including even your Parents, grandparents, children, grandchildren (and your spouses family too)

More info here [Please login or register to view this link]

Those privacy code things are worthless--I wouldn't worry about them. When you set those codes, all you can hear is someone transmitting using that code--but everyone else can hear you and them too.

[DX_MONKEY]

See similar thread down in the Misc Radios Forum. Alinco's 440 ham rig will work on the freq's and you'll have a great, fully field programmable radio that does 35 watts in several power steps.

Also get any decent ham 440 gain mobile antenna and retune it for the FRS range. Not hard at all but you'll need a UHF SWR meter to tune it or something like an MFJ 269 Antenna Analyzer.


good luck

[Pocono Redneck]

If you buy a midland antenna for that freq range it tells you right on the package what length to cut the stinger to so you wouldn't even need a meter to check it. I did that with mine over two years ago and it's been working great.

[DX_MONKEY]

Well there ya go. Great tip ! What model Midland antenna is that PR?

Thanks!

[shadow]

i use a Yaesu ft-50r modified to rx/tx on FRS. dunno how much wattage it pushes but its got awesome distance.

[Pocono Redneck]

Well there ya go. Great tip ! What model Midland antenna is that PR?

Thanks!

I hadda root around for the paperwork...

It's a Midland 5/8 over 1/2 wave 5 dB gain model 18330B

It covers 445-475 MHz and the directions gave several sizes to cut to for certain freq brackets...I think there were 4 or 5 choices but I seem to have misplaced that piece of paper. I do remember cutting it right between two recommended lengths because of how the brackets fell.

[WEASEL]

Any antenna you buy for that frequency band will have a cutting chart supplied with it. Manufacturers like Antennex, Radial Larsen, and Maxrad are all good ones. The chart will get you close, but you may still have to fine tune with a watt meter.

[Pocono Redneck]

I know you were talking mobile..but if you ever think about a base setup I use a Tram 1486 antenna and it works very well.

6.5 dB gain
3x5/8 Wave length

My setup works quite well except for the fact that up here in the mountains HF blows away UHF... UHF is better suited to flatlands or city/suburban use than it is in the mountains unless you want to play the repeater game.