Dodge Radio Communication Equipment Installation Recommendations Service Bulletin

The information contained in this guide has been prepared for use by persons installing two-way radio equipment (transmitters and receivers) in vehicles. It has been prepared in accordance with current engineering principles and generally accepted practices, using the best information available at the time of publication. It is not possible to cover all of the possible installations of two-way radio equipment in this guide. Accordingly, DaimlerChrysler Corporation cannot be held responsible for incidental or consequent damages arising out of the use of the information contained herein. Installations and modifications are solely the customer's responsibility The installation recommendations presented here are intended to supplement the radio manufacturer's instructions. To assist in properly installing communications equipment in DaimlerChrysler vehicles, the following information is provided. Always use good installation practices (see The American Radio Relay League (ARRL) Handbook or other standard reference). Test the entire installation for anomalies, especially drivetrain and brake control before extensive driving. If any problems occur the owner's first line of contact is the vehicle dealer. The literature supplied with each vehicle lists the steps to be taken in the event the dealer is unable to resolve the problem.
CONTROLS
Mount the transceiver to a solid surface. If you use screws through the floor, put body sealer over the underbody projections. Stamped acorn nuts, filled with sealer are available at most body shops for this purpose. This will keep moisture out of the carpet and insulation, and will forestall rust in this area. Watch out for wire harnesses routed under carpet and behind the instrument panel. Do not drill holes. Instead, use an awl to pierce the hole. Not only is damage less likely, but the extruded sheet metal will resist strip out much better. If you mount the radio under the instrument panel, be sure that there is no interference with proper operation of the foot controls. Mount the control head or front panel (especially the microphone cable) so that it is clear of the steering wheel and steering column controls and passenger airbag. If the unit is heavy, extra bracing may be needed for stability. Newer vehicles have more structure and energy absorbing materials in the knee blocker (the lower part of the Instrument Panel). A communications speaker (with or without DSP), directed toward the operator, will enhance intelligibility under mobile conditions.

Source