FTX-1 Optima Jeep Setup – Portable HF Trial with Fence Post & Grounding Mats
Welcome back to Backroad Reviews, where we test real-world gear for off-road adventures, overlanding, and ham radio operations in the wild. Today we’re diving into a practical field trial from Backroad Radio featuring the Yaesu FTX-1 Optima in a Jeep-based mobile/portable setup. This isn’t a full-blown review but a hands-on test of a quick-deploy HF station using a fence post mast, grounding mats, and supporting accessories.
Backroad Reviews: FTX-1 Optima Jeep Setup – Portable HF Trial with Fence Post & Grounding Mats
The Setup
The core of this trial is a temporary stationary antenna configuration perfect for parking lot activations, trail stops, or POTA (Parks on the Air) sessions:
- Radio: Yaesu FTX-1 Optima (compact all-mode HF/6m/2m/70cm transceiver)
- Antenna: Yaesu ATAS-120A screwdrive mobile antenna mounted on a 10-ft fence post section
- Grounding: GRA MAT50 HF Ground Enhancement Mat (magnetic, held by the zinc-coated steel post)
- Mounting: Topsy Products brackets (fender/NMO style for Jeep JL/JLU/JT) and Hard Top Buddy for secure mounting
- Accessories:
- Comet CF-706 Duplexer
- AR-300 HF RF Noise Suppression Choke
- Topsy Products Communication Combo Mic Bracket
- Small 6Ah lithium battery (re-purposed from a boat)
- Camera bag for organization
The antenna is bolted to a fence post using a modified Hard Top Buddy mount (same one used for removing the Jeep hard top). Grounding mats attach magnetically to the post, providing an enhanced counterpoise for better HF performance.
Performance Impressions
According to the on-air test:
- Reception: Excellent – hearing stations across the United States clearly.
- Portability: The fence post + mats combo creates a surprisingly effective quick-deploy station without needing a full mast or extensive radial field.
- Power: Running efficiently on a compact 6Ah lithium battery, making it very trail-friendly.
- Noise Management: The AR-300 choke and Comet duplexer help keep things clean.
- Vehicle Integration: Topsy Products mounts shine here – heavy-duty stainless steel construction that handles weight well. The mic bracket installs in minutes (15-30 min total) behind existing bolts for a clean, no-drill look.
Limitations noted: Not suitable for use while driving (obviously), but the setup pairs well with a more permanent mobile antenna like the Comet for on-the-move ops. Future plans include switching to a collapsible mast for POTA and optimizing wiring.
Pros
- Quick Deploy: Fence post + magnetic mats = fast setup/teardown.
- Effective Grounding: GRA MAT50 noticeably improves performance for a screwdriver antenna.
- Jeep-Specific Mounts: Topsy Products gear is rugged, USA-made, and tailored for JL/JT models.
- Compact Power: FTX-1 Optima + small battery keeps the whole rig lightweight.
- Clean Install: Thoughtful routing through window seals avoids under-vehicle runs.
Cons / Areas for Improvement
- Stationary-only for the tall mast setup.
- Requires some custom bolt swapping and wiring tweaks for full integration.
- Head unit mount still needed for optimal dashboard/roll cage placement.
Who Is This For?
Overlanders, Jeep enthusiasts, and ham operators who want reliable HF capability without a massive permanent install. Perfect for POTA, SOTA, or emergency comms on the trail. If you’re running a Yaesu FTX-1 or similar mobile rig, this grounding/mounting approach is worth testing.
Final Verdict
This trial shows that with smart accessories and a bit of creativity, you can achieve solid HF performance in a minimal, backroads-friendly package. The combination of the FTX-1 Optima, ATAS-120A, GRA mats, and Topsy mounts delivers impressive results for a quick fence-post station. Highly recommended for anyone building a versatile Jeep ham setup.
Equipment in this video –
Yaesu FTX-1 OPTIMA https://www.hamradio.com/detail.cfm?pid=71-004798
ATAS-120A https://www.hamradio.com/detail.cfm?pid=H0-006315
Comet CF-706 Duplexer https://amzn.to/4h7DH9I
AR-300 HF RF Noise Suppression Choke https://amzn.to/4vvY4RJ
GRA MAT50 HF Ground Enhancement Mat for Mobile Screwdriver Antennas https://amzn.to/44ujIuv
Topsy Products Fender Mount Antenna Bracket for Bullbar & UHF Style Antenna Systems https://amzn.to/4pgIhod
Topsy Products NMO Style Fender Mount Antenna Bracket fits Jeep JL/JLU/JT, Heavy Duty 12ga Stainless Steel, Made in USA https://amzn.to/4pjJWJF
Topsy Products Communication Combo Mic Bracket – https://topsyproducts.com/collections/radio-communications-accessories/products/communication-combo-bracket
Hard Top Buddy – https://www.hardtopbuddy.com/shop/p/hardtopbuddy