How to Install a Radio Scanner in a Vehicle

Radio scanners pick up the waves of cell phones, CBs, HAM radios and air traffic control communications, just to name a few. Radio scanners have been used since the 1950s. Portable radio scanners began to surface for consumers in the 70s. Laws regulating radio scanner use varies from state to state. The rule of thumb is that you can eavesdrop as long as you do nothing illegal with the information.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Electric drills
• Socket set
• Soldering iron
• Screw drivers
• Wire cutters
• Vice grips
• Crimper
• Wire stripper
• X-acto knife
• Multi meter
• Electrical tape and heat shrink tubing
• Wire ties
• Coat hangers
• Hammer
• Ice pick or scratch awl
• Tape measure

1. Check your battery cables and disconnect them. This disconnection can save you hundreds of dollars in repairs if you make a mistake with your drill or saw.

2. Read the instructions with your radio scanner. There is almost always something you need to purchase for installation. Make a list and try to get everything in one trip.

3. Select the type of mount brackets you want to use. Your mount areas will be limited if you have a 'between the seat' console.

4. Determine where you want to place your radio and mark your holes. Begin to drill with confidence of what is on the other side. In other words, know what your drill might hit.

5. Blow any particles left from your drill—if you wipe them up you will scratch the surface.

6. Run the wires through the interior of your vehicle. The easiest way will be to take out the seats of your car.

7. Turn your attention to antenna installation now. You will need to decide where in your trunk you will want your antenna.

Tips & Warnings

• It will give you confidence if you measure more than once for accuracy in drilling your holes for installation.
• Check to see if your car has air bag sensors under the seats before you remove them.
• An installation can take up to 10 hours.