Random length antenna

[Billofthenorth]

For those that don't know a random length antenna is just a length of wire that you can attach to your portable radio with an alligator clip, it can work great to bring in stations you normally don't receive in some areas. We do this when up north at the cabin where otherwise all we could get are a couple of country and western stations.

I understand that with a tuner you can use one on a vehicle radio and some people prefer these in their home to a regular receiver. Could this be done in a vehicle, since Jeeps don't have a lot of great antenna mounting spots I've always wondered if a RLA might work following along the lines of the roll bar where it would be up and more or less out of the way.

Has anyone tried this and if so what results did you get?

I'm talking about receiving a signal only not broadcasting.

 

[BusaDave9]

Instead of a random length antenna I would use a good antenna made for the frequency range you are interested. They are normally 1/4 wavelength in length. You also need a good ground. The antenna cable should have a grounded shielding. A rongdom length antenna is better that nothing.
You can mount it high for best reception. It's also best if it is not along side the metal body. The oem antenna location is good. I have a CB antenna mounted on my front bumper.

 

[PaRenegade]

I think he's looking more for am / fm reception than any cb or ham signals.

 

[BusaDave9]

I think he's looking more for am / fm reception than any cb or ham signals.

Yes, I realize that.
The only difference between antennas is the length matches the frequency they are most efficient at.

Well, there are also directional antennas (Yagi Uda) but they can't be used on a vehicle

 

[PaRenegade]

oops. I guess I seen the CB antenna comment in your last sentence and thought that's what you were referring to. My bust.