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Not your typical question...

Discussion in 'General 4Runner Talk' started by 4Runner fun, Apr 29, 2019.

  1. Apr 29, 2019 at 9:13 PM
    #1
    4Runner fun

    4Runner fun [OP] Just the beginning...

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    Since we have the glorious advantage of having Sprint as our cell carrier; I can lose signal in the city.
    Also, the 5th gens have satellite & navigation but no SOS button.
    If you are in a group a 2-way radio or CB may work.
    My question is...
    Has anyone added WiFi to their T4R for emergency cellular signal if you are out of range?
    Not looking to play games or watch movies. This is purely for emergencies.
    No satellite phones for an option (I am not Bond).
    Thanks all!
     
  2. Apr 30, 2019 at 8:08 AM
    #2
    rkwfxd

    rkwfxd New Member

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    Have you looked into a HAM radio? With repeaters you can talk around the world and can be very useful on runs as well. Plus no monthly service fee and transferable from vehicle to vehicle forever.

    W6RKW
     
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  3. Apr 30, 2019 at 8:13 AM
    #3
    jester243

    jester243 rabble rabble rabble

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    I changed some lights, tires and tinted windows...mind blowing huh
    some Limited's do
     
  4. Apr 30, 2019 at 9:04 AM
    #4
    4Runner fun

    4Runner fun [OP] Just the beginning...

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    Correct me if I am wrong.
    Don't you need a liscence or registration for a HAM radio?
    Something for me to look into, thanks!
     
  5. Apr 30, 2019 at 9:34 AM
    #5
    jester243

    jester243 rabble rabble rabble

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    I changed some lights, tires and tinted windows...mind blowing huh
    for HAM yes but I don't think they are too difficult to get.
     
  6. Apr 30, 2019 at 9:34 AM
    #6
    MeefZah

    MeefZah ---

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    License

    But honestly HAM isn't a "emergency use only" thing. You have to use it regularly to stay proficient and to keep up on the radio's nuances. Breaking it out only when SHTF wont do you much good unless you know from experience what repeater covers the area you are in, what the input freq and PL tones are, who might be monitoring, etc. It's a specialist's tool.
     
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  7. Apr 30, 2019 at 9:35 AM
    #7
    rkwfxd

    rkwfxd New Member

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    Yes and No. Technically yes you need a license for HAM. I studied on my phone during commercials and passed the test after a couple of weeks.

    BUT! In a true emergency, no a license would not be required. If you were broken down or worse and needed help you could broadcast on HAM without fear of fine or penalty. But the license is so easy to get, why not?
     
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  8. Apr 30, 2019 at 9:37 AM
    #8
    rkwfxd

    rkwfxd New Member

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    All of this is true. The more you use a HAM the better you get at it.

    However, I would add that most of the newer radios can be pre-programmed with all of that information for the areas that you frequent most. So, at least in theory, it could be as simple as turning it on and pushing a button and asking for help.
     
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  9. Apr 30, 2019 at 9:45 AM
    #9
    4Runner fun

    4Runner fun [OP] Just the beginning...

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    Apparently I have a new hobby.
    You cannot go places alone without a lifeline.
    I will do research and begin to study it.
    It seems it is the go to for off road coms.
    Thanks.
     
    jester243 likes this.
  10. Apr 30, 2019 at 12:33 PM
    #10
    rkwfxd

    rkwfxd New Member

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    HAMS are fun. I got laid up with an injury in 2012 so used that time to study and then take the test. It's one of those things that the more you put into it, the more you get out of it. There are tons of "Ham Nets" that meet on air each week. They cover a variety of topics and it is a good way to make new friends.

    Oh and off road it can't be beat. Me and my fellow 4x4 hams have a couple of simplex channels programmed into our radios. Crystal clear and NEVER any interference from other users.
     
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  11. Apr 30, 2019 at 2:39 PM
    #11
    WallyT4R

    WallyT4R New Member

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    Which app/apps did you use to study?
     
  12. Apr 30, 2019 at 4:42 PM
    #12
    rkwfxd

    rkwfxd New Member

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    Oh man that was 7 years ago.

    I do know that Im a cheap bastard and it was a free app.

    It would put random multiple choice questions together in a “test.”

    Bu taking these tests over and over I learned the correct answers. Maybe not the best way to learn but it got me past the real test first time with no problems.
     
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  13. Apr 30, 2019 at 4:57 PM
    #13
    4scooter19

    4scooter19 New Member

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    There is supposedly a Kenwood head unit that, when your phone is plugged into boosts your reception like 900%. The guy at a local audio shop was trying to sell me one I remember it being 800 or so for the head unit and antenna. He said with virtually any carrier you would never be without cell service.
     
  14. Apr 30, 2019 at 5:19 PM
    #14
    4Runner fun

    4Runner fun [OP] Just the beginning...

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    Sounds like Kenwood is using satellite technology!
    Brilliant idea for those who plan for the worst.
    Not going to hack my dash for a Kenwood either. Good quality but I never trust "we figured it out & no one else can..."
    I am not a test mule. Not if it is an emergency!
     
  15. Apr 30, 2019 at 5:21 PM
    #15
    4Runner fun

    4Runner fun [OP] Just the beginning...

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    Hi ho hi ho...
    It is off to learn about HAM radios I go. Lol
    May my wife be pissed until we need it...
    Thanks all!
     
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  16. Apr 30, 2019 at 5:25 PM
    #16
    4Runner fun

    4Runner fun [OP] Just the beginning...

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    Oh,
    What brand or setup do you all prefer for your T4R that will not piss the wifey as it is her daily.?
    Also, would an antenna mounted along the frame work as well as a 8ft one? Can you remove the large ones once back home?
    We are in a big city. Just looks odd...
    Thanks for reading my rants!
     
  17. Apr 30, 2019 at 7:22 PM
    #17
    WallyT4R

    WallyT4R New Member

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    Could always go with a handheld until you permanently take over the 4runner. ;)
     
  18. May 1, 2019 at 5:13 AM
    #18
    rkwfxd

    rkwfxd New Member

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    I use either a my Yaesu FT60 or Boefeng UV5R handhelds with a ProClip A/C vent mount. So basically I have a small 3"x3" or so black plastic mount that clips to one of my center AC vents and I leave it on all the time. It comes with 3M tape but I did not use it, it holds fine without the tape. The clip is really intended as a mike holder in that it has a V in it. I use an Otter Box phone case and the belt clip fits perfect in this V notch to hold my phone either vertical or horizontal and it is quick and easy to take off or install the phone. Off road, I remove the phone holder and use the belt clip from my radio to hang the radio in the same place. Antenna sticks up a few inches but they are thin and I never notice it driving. I have a lapel mike for the FT-60 and if we are having a rag chew (talking a lot) I clip it to my collar for the conversation. If we are not talking much, I just lay the mike in the fold of the 4hi/4lo shift boot. I also have a cigarette lighter charging cord for the Yaesu. This system works great for car to car and probably farther but in an emergency you'd want to get out of the vehicle to make the most of your antenna. The Yaesu is for sure the better radio but they run about $170 or so. The Boefeng works and it was only $30 so lots of folks start with a Boefeng.

    Using repeaters, my first contact, when I first got my license, with the Yaesu was from my driveway in Whittier So. Cal to a nice lady in Alaska. Not bad for a 5 watt hand held radio. While camping alone on El Mirage dry lake (also So Calif) I had a very nice conversation with a guy in Arizona.

    Hope this helps.
     
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  19. May 1, 2019 at 5:40 AM
    #19
    4Runner fun

    4Runner fun [OP] Just the beginning...

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    Rich, I very much appreciate the thorough & complete review!
    It appears I have a lot to learn.
    Again, much appreciated.
    Ryan.
     
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  20. May 1, 2019 at 7:32 AM
    #20
    JBTRD

    JBTRD As usual, saying something stupid

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    Have you ever thought about switching cell providers. Verizon is expensive but well worth it. I travel quite a bit and it works in cities and remote locations.
     
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  21. May 1, 2019 at 9:22 AM
    #21
    4Runner fun

    4Runner fun [OP] Just the beginning...

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    I couldn't afford it. We are grandfathered into an unlimited plan. With me working outside every day I stream audio all day.
    I can lose signal in many parts of our large city! Sprint sucks.
     
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  22. May 2, 2019 at 9:45 AM
    #22
    MeefZah

    MeefZah ---

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    Most providers are changing the way they operate. Contracts and limited data are going away. Don't think that just because you are "grandfathered" under an old plan you are getting the best deal. I use Verizon pre paid, $40 a month, unlimited everything. No contract. They of course don't comp you a nice new phone but IDGAF about that... $100 Galaxy Mission gets the job done. FWIW I stream Pandora 24/7...
     
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