Running into some coverage issues with my mobile APRS setup in rural Montana. I'm using an FTM-400XDR with WIDE2-2 path but my packets aren't consistently reaching the distant iGate. Local terrain is hilly with sparse digi coverage.

Should I switch to WIDE1-1,WIDE2-1 for better local coverage, or consider higher power? Currently running 2-2 but wondering if 2-3 might help in West Texas-style sparse coverage.

Also considering adding a temporary fill-in digipeater for our upcoming SAR exercise - any recommendations for minimal hardware setup?

WIDE1-1,WIDE2-1 is the recommended path for mobiles in North America and will give you two hops total. The WIDE1-1 allows low-level digipeaters to pick you up first, then WIDE2-1 gets you to the high-level sites. Much better for weak signal situations than straight WIDE2-2.

I had similar issues in Colorado mountains. WIDE1-1 in first position helps low-profile digis pick up weak signals that the big wide digis might miss. Also check your antenna - mobile whips can be marginal for packet. A 5/8 wave or mag mount with better ground plane made huge difference for me.

For fill-in coverage, an old TNC and 2m mobile in a box works great. Program it to digipeat only packets with specific callsigns in the path. I used one for a ski race where HT coverage was sketchy - put it in the parking lot and suddenly everyone could get through reliably.