*** STPR terrain is so convoluted that a 50 watt mobile radio is needed for 99% of locations! ***
Common Problems...
MICROPHONES:
"Open mic"... "Sittin" on your microphone? Has your mic dropped between seats and button pushed? Is mic being keyed by other items on the seat next to you? HUGE ISSUE at many rallies...
Pushing Mic button too late and/or too early when speaking
The newer mics with RJ45 connectors tend to fail at a higher rate. Spare is suggested.
VEHICLE ELECTRICAL:
Poor vehicle electrical system: weak battery, loose/corroded/degraded connections & cables
Been running on battery too long – Start your vehicle!
Pulling too much power from accessory power tap/”cigarette lighter”. Blown fuses -- have radio and car spares!!! Voltage/current sags hinder performance or shut-down radio.
ANTENNA SYSTEM:
Bad/high antenna SWR:
Loose antenna set-screws (replace/tighten & adjust/retune)
Corroded or loose connections -- PL259 loose at radio?
Broken/bent/degraded antenna parts & cables -- check antenna cable at mounts and door/window pinch points -- bad ground(s)
Moisture in connections or absorbed into cable
OTHER DISPARATE CAUSES:
LOUD stage starts and finishes disrupt comms!!!
Radio volunteer is out of vehicle checking on medical team or heavy sweep on-site or trying to find stage captain or bodily needs...
FRS radio contact with stage captain and crew is a no-go... Dead batteries, wrong channel, radios forgotten...
De-sensing: A close transmitter overloads your radio’s receiver. A course car transmits while at your radio location and you cannot hear their conversation with Net Control
RF interference from rally car ignition/fuel management/electronics
Incorrect CTCSS (“PL”) tones programmed
Radio is too hot -- Is it in the sun? Fan died? Installed where air flow is constricted? Radio heat sink/fan caked with dust? Radio installed where air flow is constricted?
VEHICLE PREP for RALLY ROADS:
Full tank of GAS when leaving town!!!
Check oil and coolant levels!
Fill windshield washer reservior.
Consider dropping tire pressure 5-10 pounds to decrease likelihood of rock punctures.