David,
You can remote the power pot off the bottom of the board, and have front panel
power control. Mount an L bracket under the front foot, and use ribbon cable
to bring three leads out the back of the radio between top case, and back
panel. Put same value pot, but with shaft and knob up fornt where you can use
it.
Other versions of this mod put a toggle switch on back panel, and switch in
resistance to reduce power to 25 watt step. Can get miniature switch to mount
in existing slot in back, or drill one hole.
GMC RFI: Yes, a friend works for a company that modifies fleet cars for State
radio use in them. Stay away from side of GMC that has the computer mounted.
This was the passenger kick panel under dash in "86, am not sure if it stayed
same in later years, probably did. You may have to reduce power, or add
ferrite beads or clamp on chokes to every wire leaving computer. Might try
first to put a Scout in set to 5 watts and move it around GMC on cigar lighter
power cord, to see where it can run as you increase power. Might even be able
to run OK at 50. GMC had a brochure you could get from District managers on
operation with mobile radio. But check with big dealer first. Need to get
power direct from vehicle battery for permanent installation, and keep away
from side of car carrying computer wires, or shield power cable. Fuse both
sides of rig cable. Make sure to ground radio well to fire wall, as this is
often ground reference of vehicle.
As GM sells lots of cars to Police Depts., I am sure they have a kit for
mobile radio use. Might check their web site for FAQ on mobile radios.
73, Stuart K5KVH
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