Setting up a car radio scanner often involves installing an external antenna for optimal reception. NMO (New Motorola) mounts are a popular and reliable choice for securely mounting these antennas to your vehicle. Known for their durability and waterproof nature when properly installed, NMO mounts are a favorite among radio enthusiasts. This guide will walk you through the essential steps for installing an NMO mount, ensuring a robust and weather-resistant setup for your car radio scanner.
Understanding the NMO Mount Advantage
The NMO mount has been an industry standard for decades, prized for its robust connection and waterproof design. If you’re aiming for a professional and long-lasting installation for your car radio scanner antenna, the NMO mount is an excellent choice. Its design ensures that even when the antenna is removed, the mount itself remains waterproof, protecting your vehicle’s interior from water damage.
Step-by-Step NMO Mount Installation
Installing an NMO mount requires careful execution to ensure a secure and waterproof seal. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the process:
-
Drilling the Hole: The first step is creating a 3/4 inch hole in the desired location on your vehicle’s roof or body panel. Precision is key here. Ensure the location is suitable, away from obstructions, and provides a good ground plane for your antenna. A correctly sized hole is crucial for the NMO mount to fit snugly and securely.
-
Feeding the Coax Cable: Before inserting the mount, feed the coaxial cable through the hole from above. It’s important to remember that NMO mounts are designed to be installed from the top down. Attempting to install from underneath will not work due to the mount’s construction.
-
O-ring Inspection and Placement: The NMO mount’s waterproof capability relies heavily on a small o-ring. Locate the o-ring on the mount’s ring component and ensure it is properly seated in its groove. This seemingly small detail is critical; a misplaced or damaged o-ring is the most common cause of leaks in NMO mount installations. Take your time to verify its correct placement before proceeding.
-
Securing the Mount – Utilizing the Tooling Holes: On the part of the mount where the coax cable attaches, you’ll notice two small holes. These are designed to accommodate a specialized tool that prevents the mount from spinning while you tighten the retaining ring from underneath. If you don’t have this specific tool, needle-nose pliers are an effective alternative. The tips of needle-nose pliers fit perfectly into these holes, providing the necessary counter-torque to hold the mount steady.
-
Tightening the Retaining Ring – Avoiding Over-tightening: Once the mount is in place from the top, you’ll need to tighten the retaining ring from inside the vehicle. The goal is to compress the o-ring to create a waterproof seal and ensure the metal ring makes firm contact with the vehicle’s metal. However, over-tightening can damage the mount. Avoid excessive force; tighten it firmly until you feel resistance and the mount is secure, but do not wrench it down with excessive force.
-
Wrench and Alternatives: While the ideal wrench size for the retaining ring is 15/16ths, channel-lock pliers can also be used effectively. Channel-lock pliers offer adjustable grip and can provide sufficient leverage to tighten the ring securely. Regardless of the tool you choose, focus on achieving the correct tightness rather than maximum force.
Essential Tips for a Successful Installation
- Research and Preparation: Before you begin, thoroughly research NMO mount installation. Numerous online resources and videos can provide visual guidance. Familiarizing yourself with the process beforehand will make the installation smoother and reduce the chances of errors.
- Professional Installation: If you are uncomfortable drilling into your vehicle or unsure about any step of the process, consider seeking professional installation. A car audio shop or mobile electronics installer will have the expertise and tools to ensure a correct and reliable installation.
- Testing for Waterproofing: After installation, it’s wise to test for waterproofing, especially if you live in an area with frequent rain or snow. A simple water test can confirm the integrity of your seal.
Conclusion
Installing an NMO mount for your car radio scanner setup is a straightforward process when approached methodically. By following these steps and paying attention to detail, particularly regarding the o-ring and tightening, you can achieve a professional-grade, waterproof, and durable antenna mount. This robust setup will enhance your car radio scanner’s performance and provide years of reliable service. Remember to take your time, double-check each step, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if needed. Enjoy improved reception and scanning with your newly installed NMO mount!
