Just passed my Tech last month and picked up an Icom IC-2730A dual-band mobile. Planning to install it in my 2022 F-150 and want to do it right the first time. I've read conflicting advice about power connections - some say run direct to the battery, others say the fuse box is okay. What's the proper way to wire power for a 50-watt mobile?

Also thinking about antenna placement - roof center vs hood lip mount? Don't really want to drill holes if I can avoid it. Any advice would be appreciated!

Power off the battery directly, do NOT tap into existing vehicle wiring. Ham rigs draw 7 to 10 amps on transmit and need that clean, direct power connection. As for antennas, the center of a vehicle's roof is a very good place to mount a VHF/UHF antenna for best performance.

Welcome to the hobby! I recommend the Icom 2730A dual band mobile. I have two of them and have encountered no issues with them. They have a 50-watt output. For a no-drill option, consider NMO lip mounts or third brake light mounts if your truck has the right setup.

Been running mobiles for years and getting hung up on power output is a common rookie mistake. A 80 watt radio will not talk twice as far as a 40 watt radio. Focus on a good antenna system instead - that's where you'll see real performance gains. Heavy gauge wire directly to battery with proper fusing is the only way to go.