Do It Yourself Shorty Antenna

So you guys want a shorty antenna but don't want to dish out the $20 + shipping on ebay for one. Well, there's good news and even more greater news. You can make one yourself, and no it wont mess up your radio signal strength(*added* for the most part not noticeable).

*Note* If signal strength is a concern for you. You can purchase a GAsFet pre-amp for under $100 that will boost the strength. Again only if you THINK YOU need to boost the signal strength.

Shorty Antenna Mod

Tools:
Ruler
Marker (sharpie)
Tape
Large Pot (the kind to cook in)
Water
salt
Garden Shears (or dremel)

Here's a view of the antenna

1. Measure the antenna to the desired length you want it to be and mark it with your sharpie (marker). Remember the antenna tapers from top to bottom. So dont make it too short. I measured mine to be about 13inches

2. Next tape off the section so you know exactly which part to cut.

4. Now comes to boiling the rubber end (rubber cap). Fill your pot with about just enough 4inches of water. Then add your salt. Add about 2-3tbl spoons full. This will make water boil at a higher temperature, thus reducing cook time. Then put in the rubber end (cap) into the water and wait to boil. This process can take up to about 15 minutes, the rubber cap just needs to get soft enough to be pulled out.

5. Periodically check on the rubber end and trying to pull it out. Be sure not to be forceful about it. Eventually it will just be easy to remove. Once it comes off, put back the rubber tip into the boiling water. This will soften it up even more. Now take the other half of the antenna and apply the softened rubber cap.

Now just clean up. This should hopefully give you a pretty good result.

How-To Courtesy Of TF Member FadedFocus