CB install with SWR meter

[Lotharius]

I have a 96 chevy 1 ton crew cab truck that was formerly used by the local pipeline service company. It came prewired for a CB. So I am adding a Sears Roadtalker 934.3808 and am adding it with a Maxrad MLB2700 Antenna that uses a NMO mount (supposedly cut to tune). The CB has a SWR meter on it and a SWR adjustment knob. My question is how do I tune this thing in properly? Do I need to cut the antenna, or just use the adjustment knob on the CB? What am I looking for on the SWR meter???

[Lotharius]

The CB also says it needs 13.8 volts for power. I have a diesel. I thought the power for electrical in a vehicle was 12 volts?

[RABarrett]

To answer the question, it sounds to me like you are attempting to adjust the SWR of the antenna, which should be set to minimum. This may require several adjustments, depending on the frequency used. You are essentially adjusting the antenna to the radio, and just like any resonant circuit, you are adjusting for minimum "resistance" to the signal. Ray