MFJ MFJ-1624 User Manual

MFJ-1624 Instruction Manual Mobile HF Antenna

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MFJ-1624 MOBILE HF ANTENNA

Introduction

The MFJ-1624 mini bug-catcher HF Mobile Antenna was designed to provide operation on 40
meters through 10 meters and VHF 6 meters at 300 watts PEP. The antenna is made up of the
loading coil assembly that includes an inductive matching network designed to keep the SWR
low. With a maximum height of 5 1/2 feet the antenna can be quickly removed from its mounting
position for quick storage. The antenna is equipped with a 3/8 x 24 inch bolt for easy attachment
to most mounts.

Weekender Operation

The design of the MFJ-1624 makes it easy to become an “HF Mobileer” instantly. Have fun
DXing or just rag-chewing on the HF bands. Simply attach one of the mounts listed below and
follow the assembly and grounding instructions. Throw your rig into the car and plug it into the
cigarette lighter and turn down the power to 20 Watts or so (to avoid overloading your cigarette
lighter: MFJ-1624 handles 300 Watts PEP). Now you will be ready to work the world HF
Mobile!

WARNING: Operation of the radio should begin with the output power of the radio at the

lowest setting to avoid damage or fire in the vehicle electrical system.
Slowly increase the power to no more than 20 Watts. If more than 20 Watts
of output power is necessary a direct connection from the radio to the
battery should be made to avoid overloading the vehicle wiring.

Choosing a Mounting Position

The MFJ-1624 should be mounted in a location on the vehicle as high and in the clear as
possible, while still remaining close to a good ground point. The ground connection should be
less than 1 foot away from the antenna. Several positions may need to be tested to find a suitable
ground. Refer to the Grounding section of this instruction manual for more information.

Many different types of mounts can be used with the MFJ-1624 antenna. MFJ offers several
mounts that will securely hold the antenna in place. These are listed below.

MFJ-338T (Tri-Mag Mount)
MFJ-342 (Pipe/ Mirror Mount)
MFJ-343 (Permanent Mount)
MFJ-344 (Heavy Duty Mirror Mount)
MFJ-347 (Lip Mount)

MFJ-1624 Instruction Manual Mobile HF Antenna

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Required Tools

[ ] #1 flat head screwdriver
[ ] #1phillips head screwdriver
[ ] 3/8” wrench
[ ] 12mm wrench

Additional Items Needed for Operation

[ ] Antenna Mount
[ ] Coax
[ ] SWR Analyzer / SWR Bridge

Parts List

[ ] Antenna Whip
[ ] Loading Coil Assembly
[ ] Ground Kit
[ ] (2) 3/8” x 24 split lock washer
[ ] 1/2” self tapping screw

Assembly

[ ] 1. Remove the antenna parts from the packaging and check to see

that all are present using the list above.

[ ] 2. Place the 3/8” split lock washer onto the threaded end of the

whip.

[ ] 3. Screw the antenna whip into the coupling nut on top of the

loading coil as shown in figure 1.

[ ] 4. Secure the whip into place using a 12mm or equivalent wrench.

WARNING: Road vibration will cause the whip to become loose if the above instructions

are not followed.

Placing The Mount

Choose your mounting position. Place the mount in the chosen location. REMEMBER TO
KEEP THE MOUNT WITHIN ONE FOOT OF A GOOD GROUND CONNECTION!

WHIP

Figure 1