Overview of the FireStik II 2 foot CB antenna

The FireStik II is one of the most popular 2 foot CB antennas on the market, and for good reason. This compact antenna packs a punch when it comes to performance, making it a top choice for truckers and off-road enthusiasts who need a rugged and reliable short antenna.

So what makes the FireStik II so great? First off, it’s constructed from heavy-duty fiberglass, giving it the strength to withstand harsh driving conditions without snapping. The thick fiberglass rod also provides excellent whiplash rejection, protecting the antenna from damage if tree limbs or other objects hit it at high speeds.

The FireStik II utilizes an exposed radiating tip, unlike some other short antennas. This gives it lower SWR, helping maximize power output. The exposed tip does make it slightly more vulnerable to damage, but it’s a tradeoff most users are willing to make for better performance.

Tuning is easy with the FireStik II’s included coil. You simply slide the coil up and down to find the lowest SWR reading, optimizing the antenna for your vehicle and setup. Once tuned, the exposed coil helps shed built up static as you drive, keeping reception clear.

Now that we’ve covered the key benefits and features of the FireStik II, let’s discuss the best way to mount this compact 2 foot CB antenna on your truck or Jeep.

Benefits of a short 2 foot antenna like the FireStik II

Before we get into the mounting specifics, it helps to understand why you’d choose a short 2 foot antenna in the first place. Here are some of the biggest benefits of going with a stubby antenna like the FireStik II:

• Better off-road clearance – Having a shorty antenna reduces the risk of catching branches or obstacles when operating off-road.
• Less likely to get damaged – Without a large whip antenna sticking up, there’s less chance of your antenna snapping off.
• Better highway stability – A 2 foot antenna experiences less wind noise and flutter at highway speeds compared to a tall antenna.
• Easier tuning – Short antennas tune easier than large whips since they have a smaller range of adjustment.

Of course, the downside is that a short antenna sacrifices some range compared to a big 4+ foot whip. But for many users, the improved durability and clearance is worth the tradeoff. If that sounds like you, read on to learn how to mount your new FireStik II.

How to choose the right mount for your FireStik II antenna

Firestik offers two different mounting options for the Firestik II antenna: an 18″ magnetic mount and a permanent mount with a 3/8″ x 24 threaded stud.

The magnetic mount is great if you want something temporary or need to frequently switch between vehicles. It uses a tough magnet and rubber base to adhere firmly to any metal surface while driving. Just be aware that magnetic mounts can lose some signal strength versus a direct permanent ground.

For a more permanent and higher performance setup, the threaded stud mount is the way to go. You’ll need to drill a 3/8″ hole and install the mount directly to your vehicle’s surface. This gives the antenna a reliable metal ground, helping maximize range. Use a rubber grommet to prevent metal on metal contact.

Regardless of which mount you choose, try to pick a location that’s as high and centered as possible on your vehicle. The roof is ideal. You also want to select a flat, horizontal surface if possible. This helps optimize the antenna’s radiation pattern.

Tips for mounting the FireStik II on a truck

Once you’ve selected the right antenna mount for your needs, it’s time for installation. Here are some top tips specific to mounting the FireStik II on a truck:

• Consider a bed or headache rack mount – If mounting to the roof isn’t practical, a pickup bed rack is a good alternative to keep the antenna upright.
• Use edge protection – Add rubber strips or trim to contact points to prevent antenna vibration damage.
• Leave room to tune – Make sure the mount has space to slide the loading coil for tuning adjustments after installed.
• Watch for tire clearance – Ensure the antenna is located away from any contact with the cab when off-roading.
• Add a fold over mount – For removable or multi-antenna setups, a fold over mount like the Firestik FS-FB lets you swap antennas quickly.

The most important rule is to securely mount the antenna and loading coil. Use good quality hardware secured tightly. You don’t want your new investment bouncing off on the highway!

Running the coax cable and grounding the FireStik II

Properly installing the coaxial cable and ground wire is critical for achieving peak performance from your new FireStik II antenna.

Use high quality, thick coax designed for CB radio. RG-8X or RG-58 are good minimum specs. Run the coax safely through the vehicle, securing it properly without kinks and away from heat sources.

Attach one end of the coax to the stud mount or cable coming from the magnetic mount. Use connectors designed for CB frequencies and weatherproof them for durability.

At the other end, install a PL-259 connector to attach to your CB. Leave some slack near the radio to prevent accidental yanks.

You’ll also need to connect a ground wire from the antenna stud to your vehicle frame or battery ground. Use a short, thick gauge wire or braid and secure the connections properly. This completes the electrical circuit for your antenna.

Adjusting the tuning on the FireStik II for optimum performance

One of the great features of the FireStik II is the adjustable loading coil used for tuning the antenna for lowest SWR. Here are some tips on adjusting it properly:

• Use an SWR meter – Tuning without one is guessing. Adjust for lowest SWR reading on your operating channels.
• Tune with coax attached – For proper tuning, make adjustments with antenna fully assembled and connected.
• Find the sweet spot – Slowly slide the coil up and down while checking SWR until you find the lowest reading.
• Remember the position – Mark the coil position with tape so you can retune precisely later if needed.
• Tune at desired height – Tune the antenna mounted at the actual in-use height for proper results.

Taking your time to tune for a low SWR of 1.5 or less will maximize your CB radio’s performance. The tuning coil gives you flexibility to optimize SWR in different mounted positions.

Maintaining the FireStik II antenna over time

To keep your FireStik II antenna performing its best for years to come, follow these maintenance tips:

• Inspect for cracks – Check for any cracks in the fiberglass, especially after impacts or drops.
• Clean with soap and water – Use a mild detergent and soft brush to remove dirt and grime buildup.
• Check connections – Ensure coax connectors and ground connections are tight and corrosion-free.
• Confirm SWR – Periodically check SWR to confirm the antenna tuning has not drifted.
• Replace loading coil – If damaged or corroded, replace the coil to maintain proper tuning.

With occasional cleaning and checks for damage, your rugged FireStik II should provide years of reliable performance.

Troubleshooting common issues with the FireStik II

If you experience performance issues with your new FireStik II, here are some common problems and solutions to check:

• High SWR – Retune the loading coil and ensure tight coax connections.
• Intermittent performance – Check and re-solder all electrical connections.
• Poor reception – Test coax for damage and confirm antenna mounting location.
• Noise/static – Examine mounting stud for rust and clean contacts.
• Physical damage – Replace any cracked or bent antenna parts.

In most cases, issues can be resolved by revisiting your mounting and tuning steps. But if problems persist, don’t hesitate to contact Firestik support for assistance dialing in your antenna.

Modifying the FireStik II for increased range

The FireStik II provides excellent performance for a compact 2 foot antenna. But some users want to push the limits and increase its range capabilities even further.

Here are some popular modifications and add-ons to boost FireStik II range:

• Add a signal amplifier – An inline amp can provide power gain before the coax losses occur.
• Install a larger coil – Swapping in a longer loading coil can help optimize longer range.
• Pair with side or top mount – Combining the FireStik II with a directional antenna can increase range.
• Change the whip – Replace the standard tip with a longer or fiberglass upgrade whip.
• Consider a taller antenna – Moving up to a 4+ foot Firestik may offer substantially more range.

Just keep in mind that as you increase power and range, you may face new issues like dealing with increased noise or interference. But experimenting with FireStik II modifications can definitely help push your CB radio limits.

So for both expert radio operators and CB newbies, the FireStik II remains one of the most versatile and highest performing short 2 foot antennas. Durable construction, flexible tuning, and trusted quality have made FireStik a top choice for truckers and off-roaders for decades.

Hopefully this guide has provided helpful tips for choosing the right mount, installing your new antenna properly, tuning for peak performance, and maintaining your FireStik II for years of trouble-free service.

Benefits of a short 2 foot antenna like the FireStik II

Before jumping into mounting this compact antenna, it’s worth understanding why you’d want to go with a shorty like the FireStik II in the first place. What are the key advantages of a stubby 2 foot whip over a tall fiberglass pole? Let’s break it down:

• Clearance – Less chance of catching tree branches and obstacles when wheeling off-road or overlanding. Those extra feet make a difference on the trails.
• Durability – Without a long lever arm, there’s lower risk of snapping off your antenna on brush or in a car wash. Short and stout beats tall and fragile.
• Stability – At highway speeds, a shorty experiences less wind noise and flutter. Helps maintain solid radio contact when cruising down the interstate.
• Tuning – Compact antennas are easier to dial in. You can quickly slide the adjustment coil to tune, without a wide tuning range to finesse.

Now the compromise is losing some power and range versus a big 5 foot fiberglass whip. But that’s a tradeoff many wheelers and off-roaders happily make for the benefits above. If you value clearance, durability, and convenience, the FireStik II is a great way to go.

For truckers or highway cruisers needing every last mile of range, maybe stick with a big ol’ whip. But for the Jeep and trail rig crowd, a stout 2 foot antenna like the FireStik II is a smart way to keep your CB radio intact and sounding great. Those are the key benefits that make short, tough antennas popular on the trails. Now let’s get into specific tips for mounting this beauty up right.

First thing’s first – you’ve got a couple choices for how to mount your new FireStik II. There’s a temporary magnetic mount, good for quickly swapping between vehicles. But for best performance, I recommend the permanent mount with threaded 3/8″ stud.

The reason is that direct metal-to-metal contact gives you a solid ground connection through the mount. Mag mounts work OK, but they can introduce noise compared to a direct ground. So if this antenna will live primarily on one rig, opt for drilling and installing the permanent mount.

Now in terms of location, you want to follow the same basic rules as a full size whip. Try to get it as high and centered on the vehicle as possible. But avoid mounting it off the side mirrors – the goal is keeping it away from wind noise and obstruction. Roof, bed rack, or upper rear bumper area is ideal.

Use quality coax like RG8X and weatherproof all the connections. Install a proper hood over the PL259 connector. Run the coax safely through the vehicle – no pinches or kinks. And don’t forget to attach your ground wire from the antenna stud to the body or battery ground. Solid electricals are key.

Finally, set aside time to properly tune that adjustment coil for lowest SWR across your most-used CB channels. A couple tips here – always tune with the coax attached and antenna fully assembled in its permanent mounting location. And mark the coil position so you can easily retune later if needed.

Installing your new FireStik II by following these tips will ensure you get the most out of this tough little 2 foot antenna. The right mount, clean electrical connections, and proper tuning helps optimize durability, power transfer, and reception. Get it dialed in right, and this antenna will serve you well for years of off-road adventures ahead.

How to choose the right mount for your FireStik II antenna

Mounting the FireStik II properly is crucial for getting top performance from this compact 2 foot antenna. You’ve got a couple solid options from Firestik – let’s compare them so you can decide on the best mount for your particular setup and needs.

First up is the magnetic mount. This is a good temporary option or if you’ll be swapping the antenna between multiple vehicles. The tough magnet along with a rubber base grips firmly to any metal surface. It adheres tight and won’t come loose, even at highway speeds.

For more permanent installing, go with the threaded stud mount. This bolts directly to your chosen mounting surface using a 3/8″ hole. Using a grommet prevents any metal on metal contact. The direct contact gives an ultra reliable ground connection for better efficiency.

So which is better for your FireStik II? Here are a few things to consider:

• Ease of install – Magnetic mount just sticks on, removing the need to drill holes.
• Grounding – Stud mount provides lower resistance connection to the body.
• Durability – Stud mount withstands vibration and impacts better long-term.
• Tuning – Keeping the antenna in one place allows better fine tuning.

For most folks who will keep the antenna in one spot on their daily driver, I recommend the stud mounted permanent install. But the magnetic mount is great for flexibility if you’ll often move it between vehicles. You really can’t go wrong either way.

The most important thing is finding a high, centered mounting location away from obstructions. The roof is ideal to get your antenna away from wind noise. Use edge trim and leave plenty of room to adjust the tuning coil.

And don’t forget to run quality coax cable and install proper connectors. Keep the coax protected inside the vehicle. Add weatherproofing like dielectric grease on the connectors. Take care here and it will pay off in better power transfer.

Lastly, properly ground the antenna right to the frame or battery ground post. Use thick gauge wire for a robust ground connection. That completes the electrical circuit so your radio can fully utilize that shiny new FireStik II.

Invest a little time up front selecting the right mount for your particular FireStik II setup. Stud or mag, the key is securely installing the antenna in an optimal location. Use top quality cabling and connectors, keep the coax safe, and don’t forget the ground wire. Do it right from the start and you’ll get years of top performance from this rugged little 2 foot antenna gem.

Tips for mounting the FireStik II on a truck

Installing your new FireStik II on a pickup truck? Awesome – that short, tough antenna is perfect for maintaining clear CB communication while off-roading or hauling with your truck. Here are some top tips for getting it mounted up right:

• Consider a bed rack – Can’t mount to the roof? A bed rack keeps it upright and away from obstacles.
• Keep away from tires – Ensure adequate clearance from any tire contact during articulation off-road.
• Use edge protection – Add rubber grommets or other protection where necessary to prevent vibration damage.
• Leave room to tune – Ensure the mount has space to freely slide the loading coil for tuning adjustments.
• Fold-over mount – For a removable setup, consider a fold-over mount like the Firestik FS-FB for quick antenna swaps.

The first priority is finding a high, central mounting location on your truck. The roof is ideal to get it away from wind noise and obstruction. But if that’s not practical, consider a bed rack, upper rear bumper, or tailgate mount.

Use quality hardware like stainless steel bolts to mount the antenna base securely. Don’t rely solely on self-tappers – they can vibrate loose over time. Apply thread locker for added insurance.

Take care protecting the antenna where it contacts the mount or truck body. Add rubber grommets, edge trim, or other cushion to prevent vibration damage over rough terrain. The FireStik II is tough, but protect that fiberglass.

Be sure to leave adequate clearance from the antenna tip to the roof or cab corner. You don’t want it banging the body during articulation off-road. Give yourself some wiggle room.

For removable setups, a fold-over mount like the Firestik FS-FB is perfect. It lets you quickly swap between the Firestik II and other antennas without re-drilling each time. Just flip up and swap out.

And don’t forget to use quality coax suited for CB, like RG8X. Secure and protect the cable, use weatherproof connectors, and properly ground the antenna. Taking the time to install it right will ensure seasons of solid performance from your new FireStik II.

Mounting your antenna on a truck has some unique challenges compared to a Jeep or car. But with smart location choices, rugged mounting hardware, and taking precautions for off-road clearance, that shiny new FireStik II will serve you well for years ahead. Drive on!

Running the coax cable and grounding the FireStik II

Installing a quality CB antenna like the FireStik II on your truck can greatly improve your communication range while out on the road. But getting the most out of your new antenna requires properly running the coax feedline cable and grounding the antenna system.

The FireStik II is one of the most popular 2 foot CB antennas on the market, known for its durability and performance. At just over 2 feet tall, it maintains a low profile while still radiating strongly. The fiberglass whip is rated to withstand speeds up to 100 MPH, while the stainless steel tip resists corrosion.

When installing the FireStik II, the first step is securely mounting the antenna to your truck. Most choose to mount it on the corner of the bed rail using the included nylon clamps. This provides good elevation as well as some protection from tree branches and car washes. Make sure to use all supplied washers and tightly secure the nuts.

Next, you’ll need to route the coax cable from the antenna back to your CB radio. Take care to keep the cable away from heat sources and avoid running it next to control cables whenever possible. Use grommets when passing through the firewall or metal surfaces to prevent damage. Avoid making sharp bends and keep extra cable out of sight by coiling and securing with zip ties.

When connecting the cable to the antenna and radio, be sure to use PL-259 connectors. Crimp or solder the connectors securely and attach to the antenna and radio snugly. Check that the center conductor extends slightly past the end of the plug when inserted.

Proper grounding is critical for maximum performance. The FireStik II includes a 15 foot ground lead that should be secured to the vehicle chassis or body, preferably using a dedicated grounding bolt near the antenna base. Make sure to scrape away paint and debris to expose bare metal when attaching the ground wire.

In addition to the ground lead, adding a coil of ground wire secured under a mounting bolt helps dissipate static buildup. Some installers also run an auxiliary ground wire from the antenna mount down to the frame, providing a direct ground path.

With the coax and ground wired up securely, check all connections for tightness. Seal any drilled holes with silicone to prevent moisture entry. Then test the SWR with an antenna analyzer and tune as needed to optimize for your desired CB channels.

Getting the coax routing and grounding right may take a bit more time during installation, but it’s worth the effort. With a properly tuned and grounded FireStik II antenna, you’ll enjoy reliable communications while on the highway for years to come.

Here are some additional tips for installing your FireStik II:

• Use high quality coax like RG8X for runs up to 25 feet, or RG8 for longer runs. RG58 works but has more signal loss.
• Add a coax surge protector near the radio to protect from voltage spikes.
• Weatherproof all connections with electrical tape or heat shrink tubing.
• Consider running the cable through PVC conduit for extra protection.
• Mount the antenna toward the center of the vehicle for best coverage.
• A spring or flexible mount helps relieve stress on the antenna base.
• Aim to keep cable runs as short as practical for less signal loss.

Installing a rugged and dependable CB antenna like the FireStik II allows truckers and off-roaders to stay in touch with nearby drivers while on the move. Paying attention to the coax routing and grounding ensures you’ll get the very best performance from your antenna for years of reliable service.

Adjusting the tuning on the FireStik II for optimum performance

The FireStik II is renowned as one of the best performing 2 foot CB antennas thanks to its efficient fiberglass whip design. But to maximize your range, fine-tuning the antenna’s tuning is essential after installing it on your truck.

Out of the box, the FireStik II is preset to a factory tuning near the center of the CB band. However, once mounted on your vehicle, the surrounding metal bodywork can interact with the antenna and shift the tuning off frequency.

Symptoms of an out-of-tune antenna include low power output from your CB radio, difficulty communicating with other drivers, or hearing other stations but not being heard yourself. Using a Standing Wave Ratio (SWR) meter makes it easy to diagnose and adjust the tuning.

To check the SWR, connect an antenna analyzer or SWR meter in line with the coax, between the FireStik II and your CB radio. Set the meter to scan SWR across various CB channels and observe the readings.

Ideally you want an SWR of 1.5 or less across all 40 CB channels. Higher values like 2.0 or 3.0 indicate the antenna is out of tune. In this case the antenna needs to be adjusted for optimal performance.

Tuning on the FireStik II is accomplished by sliding the brass ferrule up and down the fiberglass rod. Loosen the set screw on the ferrule with a 1/8 inch hex wrench before attempting to adjust it.

To lower the SWR on a high channel, slide the ferrule down slightly away from the tip. For low channels, slide it up closer to the tip. Make small adjustments and recheck SWR until you center it across the full range of frequencies.

Getting an optimal SWR tuning can require patience. Work methodically channel by channel to bring the readings down into an acceptable range. Some trial and error is normal during the process.

If needed, fine tune again a few days after initial adjustment. The antenna’s interaction with the vehicle can change slightly after some driving time. Periodic rechecking and tweaking helps maintain peak performance.

In addition to SWR, checking the antenna’s power output verifies proper tuning. A simple relative power meter lets you check output wattage on each channel.

Aim for maximum power output consistent across all channels. If output drops on certain frequencies, note which ones and readjust SWR in that range to bring power back up.

With SWR tuned to 1.5 or less across all 40 CB channels, the FireStik II will perform at its peak. You’ll experience much improved range for communicating with other drivers while out on the highway.

Here are some additional tips for tuning your FireStik II antenna:

• Tune with the hood open, as this best replicates on-road conditions.
• Check SWR at low, mid, and high CB frequencies.
• Tune for lowest SWR on Channel 19 first, then work outward from there.
• Adjust in small increments, testing after each adjustment.
• Aim for lowest SWR, don’t just get it “close enough.”
• Confirm tuning with SWR meter and power output checker.
• Recheck tuning after a couple days of driving.
• Consider a professionally installed adjustable tip if SWR won’t lower enough.

Investing the effort to properly tune your FireStik II pays big dividends when out on the road. With optimized SWR tuning, you’ll enjoy reliable communication and maximum range when using your CB radio.

Consistently tuning and verifying SWR ensures you get the very best performance from your antenna. So be sure to break out that meter and put in the tuning time to optimize your FireStik II for the CB band.

Maintaining the FireStik II antenna over time

The FireStik II earns its reputation as one of the toughest 2 foot CB antennas you can buy. But to keep it performing its best season after season, the antenna needs periodic inspection, cleaning, and tuning.

Made of fiberglass with a stainless steel tip, the FireStik II is built to handle rigorous use on the road. However, exposure to weather, road grime, and general wear can degrade the antenna over time.

To maximize the working life of your FireStik II, periodically inspect the antenna’s whip and connections. Check for any cracks or damage to the fiberglass rod, and ensure the tip is still corrosion free.

Look for wear or cuts in the antenna’s coax cable, and confirm the PL-259 connectors are snug at both ends. Also inspect the 15 foot ground lead for breaks or corrosion.

Replace any damaged cables right away to maintain proper antenna function. Damaged fiberglass can often be repaired with fiberglass/epoxy adhesive wraps and kits to restore integrity.

Over several seasons of use, the antenna may accumulate dirt, grime, and oxidation. Use a damp cloth or alcohol pad to gently clean the fiberglass and metal surfaces of the antenna itself.

To really make it shine, apply a UV protectant like Armor All to the whip. This helps restore UV protection, improves water runoff, and reduces static buildup.

Periodically check for loose nuts and clamps on the antenna mounts and ground points. Vibration can loosen hardware over time. Snug up any that feel loose for a reliable connection.

Inspect any grommets or weather stripping protecting the coax cable, and replace as needed. This helps prevent moisture intrusion into the line.

Check the SWR tuning at least annually, and any time you notice reduced range from your CB radio. Adjust the tuning if needed to keep the antenna matched to your CB channels.

Consider removing the FireStik II before entering automatic car washes to prevent damage from the rotating brushes. Some touchless wash systems are safe if the antenna can clear the top.

When storing your vehicle for extended periods, remove the antenna to prevent exposure corrosion and weathering. Use a non-metallic cap on the mount to close it off.

With periodic inspection, cleaning, tuning, and repair when needed, a quality FireStik II antenna should provide years of reliable performance on the road.

Here are some tips for maximizing the lifespan of your FireStik II:

• Check for cracks, wear, and corrosion at least twice per year.
• Clean with isopropyl alcohol and protectant every 6-12 months.
• Snug all clamps, screws, and hardware connections if loose.
• Check SWR and tune antenna for peak CB performance.
• Use quality coax and replace if worn or damaged.
• Seal any new holes drilled with silicone sealant.
• Consider removing before automatic car washes.
• Store with plastic cap when vehicle not in use.

With proper care and maintenance, your FireStik II can deliver years of service. While ruggedly built, periodically inspecting and servicing the antenna ensures you get maximum performance from it year after year.

Invest a few minutes periodically to look over your FireStik II system. Proactively catching any minor wear or damage keeps the antenna working great for the long run. With a well-maintained antenna, you’ll continue enjoying clear CB communications on the highway.

Troubleshooting common issues with the FireStik II

The durable FireStik II is designed to provide years of reliable service. But occasionally issues can arise with the antenna that degrade performance. Here are some common problems and potential solutions to get your FireStik II back up and running optimally.

If your CB radio reception is lacking, consider the antenna system first when troubleshooting. Problems like a cracked or bent antenna whip, loose cabling, or poor grounding can significantly reduce range.

Inspected the fiberglass whip and stainless steel tip first. Even a small crack or deformation in the whip can hamper performance. Replace the entire antenna if damage is found.

Ensure all mounting hardware is snug. Vibration can loosen nuts and clamps over time. Check for corrosion as well, and clean or replace any contaminated hardware.

Examine all coax cables for cracking or cuts that could admit moisture. Even small amounts of water ingress into the coax can degrade signals. Replace cabling if any damage is found.

Check for loose or corroded connectors at both the antenna and radio ends. Tighten or replace if needed. Also ensure the antenna’s ground lead is securely affixed to bare metal on the vehicle frame.

Use an SWR meter to check if the antenna has shifted out of tune. Adjust the ferrule as needed to optimize SWR across the full range of CB channels in use.

If SWR won’t come down, or the antenna seems to go out of tune quickly, moisture may have penetrated the coax or antenna base. This de-tunes the system. Replace any damaged components.

For weak but usable reception, also check your CB radio performance. Over time, transmission power may degrade. Use a watt meter to verify full 4 watt output.

If radio output is low, check power supply connection and voltage. Clean radio contacts if dirty. Consider having a professional service the radio internally if all else checks good.

Intermittent reception or loss of signals usually points to connections problems. Carefully inspect connectors, cables, and grounding points for corrosion, damage, or looseness.

Examine mounting locations as well. Side to side rocking or shifting can cause electrical shorts. Tighten mounts and use shim washers to eliminate antenna base movement.

If no issues are found with the antenna system itself, consider location. Large structures, hills, or dense trees can create radio “shadows”. Relocating the antenna may help reception.

With periodic checks and maintenance, most FireStik II issues can be corrected to restore performance. Take the time to thoroughly inspect all antenna components before replacing the entire system.

Here are some quick troubleshooting tips for FireStik II issues:

• Inspect antenna base, tip, and cabling for any damage
• Check connectors, clamps, and mounts for tightness
• Verify antenna ground connections are solid
• Use SWR meter to check tuning across CB channels
• Ensure radio output power is at 4 watts
• Consider relocating antenna or radio if all else checks good

While a durable design, periodically inspecting and servicing your FireStik II ensures you achieve its full performance potential. Properly troubleshooting issues as they arise keeps your antenna system running optimally for years on the road.

Modifying the FireStik II for increased range

The stock FireStik II antenna performs well out of the box for most drivers’ needs. But some look to squeeze out even more range by modifying the antenna in creative ways.

Before attempting modifications, ensure you have a high quality coax cable and secure grounding in place. This provides a solid foundation to build on.

One easy way to boost range is adding a coax mounted signal amplifier. Quality amplifiers like the Wilson 400200 can provide 20+ dB signal gain for both receive and transmit.

Mount the amplifier close to the antenna base using weatherproof mounting tape or small clamps. Run power from your electrical system or install a small 9V battery to power it.

For more directional gain, adding a corner reflector above the antenna can help focus radiated energy. Use non-conductive PVC pipe cut in an “L” shape above the FireStik to create the reflector.

Angle the reflector back and down slightly to redirect additional signal forward towards the front of the vehicle. Tune SWR with it in place for best performance.

Those seeking long-range DX contacts sometimes add capacity hats – an additional whip mounted above the main antenna. This elongates the radiating element for more gain.

Use a short 3-6 inch stainless or fiberglass rod and bracket to hold it parallel above the FireStik. Adjust spacing between the whips to reduce SWR.

For all weather protection in harsh climates, building a fiberglass shroud around the antenna helps protect it from ice buildup. Leave the top uncovered for clear signal propagation.

Hams have success removing the coil inside CB antennas to double the length for greater efficiency on 10 meters. But this will detune it for CB use.

On fiberglass whips, use a sharp knife to slit the whip lengthwise to expose the coil windings. Carefully unwrap and remove to open the coil.

While creative modifications can improve performance, remember that FCC rules limit CB antennas to 20 feet maximum length. Stay legal and keep your setup looking clean.

Here are some tips when modifying your FireStik II:

• Only modify after ensuring coax and grounding are solid
• Add quality amplifiers close to the antenna base
• Adjust corner reflectors for optimal directional gain
• Keep capacity hats short and tuned for best SWR
• Shrouds protect from weather but impact signals
• Removing coils converts to 10M but loses CB resonance
• Stay under 20 feet total length for legal CB use

With some creative modifications and tuning, enterprising owners can optimize their FireStik II setups for more communication range. But avoid compromising durability and legal compliance.

If maximizing possible range is your priority while staying street legal, consider experimenting with reflectors, amplifiers, or capacity loads on your FireStik II antenna system.

Why the FireStik II is one of the best short CB antennas for trucks

With hundreds of antennas to choose from, what makes the 2 foot FireStik II a favorite CB antenna for truck owners? Rugged construction, efficient design, easy tuning, and consistent performance even at highway speeds.

Truckers and off-road enthusiasts have relied on the FireStik brand for decades as durable, well-built antennas. The FireStik II carries on that tradition in a compact and powerful package.

The fiberglass core of the antenna is highly resistant to shocks, vibration, and weather extremes. The exposed stainless steel tip dissipates static and is corrosion resistant.

At just over 2 feet tall, the FireStik II maintains a low profile while still providing excellent range. The shorter length clears garages and car washes easily.

The coil-loaded design shrinks the antenna down in size while still enabling it to resonate well on the CB bands. The precisely tuned coil helps maximize range from a small antenna.

The antenna’s ferrule is easily adjustable for tuning the SWR, allowing it to be matched well to your vehicle and radio setup. Proper tuning ensures maximum power transfer between the radio and antenna.

The FireStik II utilizes a constant impedance design, with 300 ohm impedance at the bottom that transitions to 50 ohms at the top. This helps reduce loss across the full range of CB frequencies in use.

At highway speeds, the FireStik II’s flexible fiberglass whip absorbs vibration and wind buffeting without damage. The smooth aerodynamic tip reduces wind noise as well.

Weighing just over 1 lb, the antenna is light enough for most truck mounts without adding excessive stress. The included spring mount helps absorb road shocks and bumps.

Constructed entirely in the USA, the FireStik II antenna comes with a limited lifetime warranty from the manufacturer, ensuring quality support.

Here are some key benefits that make the FireStik II a top performer for truck owners:

• Rugged fiberglass and stainless steel construction
• Efficient coil-loaded design in a short antenna
• Easy to tune for low SWR
• Constant 300 to 50 ohm impedance matches radios
• Durable and flexible whip design
• Lightweight for minimal added stress on mounts
• Made in USA with lifetime warranty

The FireStik II combines efficient electrical design, rugged materials, and rugged engineering in a versatile and compact 2 foot antenna. For truckers needing a reliable antenna without great height, the FireStik II is a go-to choice.

If you are looking for a sturdy, well-constructed short antenna that can handle life on the road, choose the FireStik II. Its proven track record and quality construction make it one of the best choices out there.