Thread: Replacing UHF coax cable.

Due to circumstances that were entirely within my control but not paid attention to the coax running from the spring base has been violently detached from itself.

The underside of the base has a hollow bolt with the coax running up into it. Before I dismantle it it it possible to replace the cable or do I just need to buy a whole new setup? If it can be done what is the method of connection to the base inside the section where the antenna (GMC fibreglass screw in) meets it. Does this part come out from the underside?

I was under the impression that the cable should remain at its full length, so didn't cut it down to size just soldered the crew end on for the unit. I know that joiners etc will induce loss into the line but I'd like something to enable simpler removal of the bar if required (as it has been lately) so is there a joiner that's less lossy than others?

You should be able to re-terminate the coax onto the base. For brevity, a good explanation can be found here View topic - Replace the cable on elivated feed antenna. | Australian 4WD Action

You'll need some time and a decent soldering iron - make sure it's hot enough as you don't want to leave a mess where you have to re-terminate the centre conductor.

As for joiners, the type that's actually on the back of the radio is the main one to steer away from... You can shorten the cable as much as you like (the shorter the better). A good joiner for this purpose would be a TNC type, the best being an N-type. The TNC is a bit smaller diameter and will work fine for UHF CB. It is really important to make a good termination, so use either a 'clamp' style connector or make sure you crimp with the correct size die. Afterwards use some self amalgamating tape (aka bi-seal or pib tape) and then electrical tape to seal the connection.

This is all a fair bit of effort so make sure it's something that will actually benifit you enough to warrant your time.