Getting ready to install my first mobile VHF/UHF radio (Icom IC-2730A) in my F-150. I've read conflicting advice about power connections - some say run direct to battery, others say use the fuse box. What's the proper way to wire a 50-watt dual band radio? Do I really need 12AWG wire for such a short run from the cab to the engine bay? Also concerned about voltage drop when transmitting.

Run direct to the battery with proper fusing, no question about it. Do a proper install, power off the battery directly. Do NOT tap into existing vehicle wiring, and for the love of God and all things holy, do NOT use cigarette lighter sockets. Use 10AWG minimum for a 50W radio and install a 20A fuse at the battery.

I made the mistake of using the 12V outlet on my first install and it caused all sorts of problems with voltage drop during transmission. When it transmits, your VHF radio likely draws the most power of all your marine electronics. A radio that appears to be working great when listening can fail to transmit properly if it is starved for power. Voltage should not drop below 12.6 volts.

For what it's worth, I've been running my IC-2730A for two years now with 10AWG wire direct to battery and it's been rock solid. The radio manual specifies the current draw - mine pulls about 13 amps on high power. Don't forget the inline fuse near the battery terminal!