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How to Install a Magnet Mount Antenna on a Trunk Lid

Magnet mount antennas, also called "Mag Mount", were designed to provide the best possible transmit and receive signal for users of business-band, citizens-band and amateur radio communications, while also making it possible to use the antenna without the need to drill a hole into the metal of a vehicle for mounting.

When installing such an antenna on a trunk lid, the procedure is extremely simple but also requires attention when placing the antenna so it has a good "ground plane." Antennas need a flat, even, metal ground-plane surface for radiating a transmitted signal properly.

Things You'll Need

Tape measure
Cotton balls
Isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol)
Sheet of felt (craft section of stores, your choice of color)
Scissors

Instructions

- 1
  Use a tape measure to determine the absolute center of the trunk. Measure the length and the width and lay a soft item at the center of the trunk to keep it marked. This will provide equal distance around all sides of the antenna, providing an excellent ground plane.
- 2
  Apply isopropyl alcohol to a cotton ball and gently rub the center area to remove dirt and any oils which may be on the surface. Allow to air dry for a minute or two.
- 3
  Cut out a round piece of felt, just large enough to fit under the magnetic mount portion of your antenna. Lay the felt on the center of the trunk and then set the magnetic antenna base over the felt. This will protect your vehicle paint from being scratched by the metal magnet. When setting your antenna onto the felt, set it so that the coaxial cable faces the front of the vehicle.
- 4
  Open your trunk and run the coaxial cable through the crevice of the trunk nearest the rear window, and then route the cable to the location of your radio.

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