Unable to fix high SWR readings on new FireStik antenna

[DadJoker]

I recently bought and attempted to install a new Uniden PC78LTX CB in my 2017 Ram 1500 BigHorn truck, using this kit from Right Channel Radios (with the 4' FireStik Firefly and quick connect). I hard wired the power to the power for the cigarette lighter using a snap lock tap connector. It powered up fine, but when I went to check the SWR (both with the internal meter in the CB and an external meter), it was way high (above 3). I checked with RCR, and found out that I had the nylon washer installed in the wrong place on the hood mount; I had it on the bottom of the mount, and it needed to be on the top, with the lip side down. After fixing that, it seemed to be fine for a bit, but after turning off the vehicle and coming back later, it was back to being way too high.

Then, the next time I came out and turned it on, the radio wouldn't power up at all. Occasionally, when checking the SWR the ANT light would come on , but I never left it on for more than a second.

My questions:

Is there anything else I can check/change to fix the SWR on my antenna? From what I've seen, many other people have used that kit successfully, so I doubt the problem is the equipment.

Since the CB won't power on, is it likely that I fried it with the high SWR readings?

Thanks.

[Bombero]

Hey….

Did you check for a blown fuse in the power source?

Bombero

[Gold Diamond]

1. Check for 12 VDC at the radio's power cord connector.
2. Check the center pin of the PL-259 antenna cable with a volt-ohm meter. The resistance should be infinity. Connect a 50 ohm dummy load to the radio's antenna input and key on. SWR should be near 1:1 or so.
3. If the radio's power cable contains an inline fuse check that the fuse is good or replace with a similar fuse for a test.
4. If all of the above are good to go then an radio internal fuse or protective component could be open. An inspection of the radio's circuit board could reveal a hot spot however not always.

[443 Arizona]

on some vehicles, the cigarette plug is not fused so if you created a short looking for a ground then you may have really toasted something.
SWR that you are describing makes me think the coax is not making a ground at the antenna mount