Making the recieve work better

Hello lugnut,

the lack of receiver sensitivity may denote a problem with the RF input amplifier or the IF stages. before attempting to boost the incoming signal I would first want you to check the RF and IF receiver functions first. If there is a problem it would be more advantagous to fix it first. You will need the following equipment

1)schematic (To locate components and test points)
2)digital multimeter (to measure voltages and test points)
3)Radio Frequency (RF) Generator (to provide test and reference signals)
4)IF demodulator probe (to test for proper IF signal amplification along the IF stages)
5)Oscilloscope (To see if audio is being properly reproduced at the audio detector stage)
6) SWR meter(to test the standing wave ratio between (along the coaxial cable path) the antenna and the CB unit.
7)Antenna Dummy load (to emulate the antenna, under FCC law you can not transmitt into the air while testing and repair any transmitter or transceiver).

I hope this provides insight into what you will need to work on this problem.

These pieces of equipment are needed to properly troubleshoot a CB radio

When you say it doesn't have the receive it should, there are a couple of things to look at before you go into the radio:

1. Are you only transmitting and receiving about 2 miles (while talking to someone with a known good system)? If so, you need to check your ground plane. Make sure the antenna mounting bracket is grounded out to the vehicle.

2. Are you only transmitting and receiving about 1/4 to 1/2 mile? If so, your antenna may be grounding out to your vehicle. If it is, fix it. Also check your coax to see if it center conductor is broken, and see if the center conductor is shorting out to your shield.

Dean
Rollin CBs