Another week, another question regarding mobile CB antennas. A few days ago, I received the following e-mail:
“What can you tell me about power antennas for CB radios? I would like to get one for my vehicle so when not in use it is safely tucked away. Thanks, Bob.”
These were offered as optional equipment on cars of the late 1970s and early 1980s. It was part of a package which upgraded the standard car radio to an AM/FM stereo unit with built-in CB radio. Some also included an 8-track or cassette tape player. The antenna was usually mounted on the right front fender, retracting into the fender when not in use. It looked like a standard radio antenna except for a gray plastic “capsule” in the middle. This capsule protected the loading coil which made the antenna electrically longer so that it could be used on the CB frequencies. Performance was so-so. Using the same antenna on three very separate frequency ranges (AM, FM, and CB) compromised it’s abilities. In addition, the mounting location gave this antenna a slightly directional signal pattern. A quality dedicated CB antenna mounted on the trunk lid or roof of the vehicle would easily outperform these all-in-one models.
General Motors in particular installed quite a few of these in their intermediate and large cars. I’m trying to find a photo but no luck so far. As for where to find one for your vehicle, I’m not sure. Does anyone know if these are still being sold as aftermarket equipment? If so, please let us know. Thanks for writing, Bob!