Midland MXT 500 Install Locations

[Coldtoes]

I'm having a hard time deciding between the two new Midland GMRS radios, the MXT 500 with the traditional base unit with LCD screen, vs the 575 with the "all-in-handheld" design. I'd like to see install photos of people's MXT 500 base units. I know the millions of places you can put a handheld unit and the advantages of having the 575 base unit inside the dash, but I like the much larger screen of the 500 and the simplicity of the handheld part.

I had a Cobra C75WXST CB (another all-in-handheld) back in my JK, and the design was fine but I didn't love how easy it was to accidently mash a button i didn't intend to when just trying to talk. SO my main question is, where have you installed you radio base stations? I like the idea of it being overhead in the center, but i've never had anything mounted up there and i'm not sure what it's like to actually live with.

Please post pics if you can! Thanks!

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[AKID_RBM]

I have the same question, been wondering where to put the thing! Thinking the 500 though because I think the handpiece could be easily broken...

 

[sarguy1941]

Have the 275 (Same as the 575) in both my JT and JK. Beat the heck out of the head in my JK and its still fine. Not sure what your planning to do that could damage it that bad. I run the CMX series for the CB as the head is very similar. Both my decks are on the back wall with the HHCH mic on a RAM mount on the dash.

 

[hjdca]

I have both the Cobra Handheld and I just bought the MXT575 to replace my MXT275. I put the MXT575 right under the steering wheel. There is a flat spot there. I used velcro and a zip tie to hold it secure there. Push it as far forward as you can and still easily connect the front cable -- this will insure that you do not interfer with the steering wheel nut when it is turning. I like the MXT575, it is a really nice unit. Here is a comparison pic I took with my old MXT275.

Ozark Overland Adventures has an installation video on the MXT575

 

[Fpolanco]

I used magnets to place on the mount that came with my Midland 275 and mounted the power unit under the driver seat. There’s a flat spot under the seat and JUST enough room for the power module.

I then ran the cables for the mic around the back of the center console and under the passenger seat to the mic holder that’s on the “oh shit” bar on the dash.

This way, everything is out of the way and I only see the mic on the passenger side.

 

[Coldtoes]

I have the same question, been wondering where to put the thing! Thinking the 500 though because I think the handpiece could be easily broken...

I hadn't thought about how easy it would be to break the (much more expensive and likely less rugged) handheld... Good point. I mean, i'm sure they design them to be strong, but still...

 

[Coldtoes]

I used magnets to place on the mount that came with my Midland 275 and mounted the power unit under the driver seat. There’s a flat spot under the seat and JUST enough room for the power module.

I then ran the cables for the mic around the back of the center console and under the passenger seat to the mic holder that’s on the “oh shit” bar on the dash.

This way, everything is out of the way and I only see the mic on the passenger side.

That sounds like a long path for the mic cable. Did you use an extension or have any issues with reach? Or have issues with reach when pulling it up to speak?

 

[Fpolanco]

That sounds like a long path for the mic cable. Did you use an extension or have any issues with reach? Or have issues with reach when pulling it up to speak?

I did use an extension but no problems with transmitting or receiving. Clear as day.

 

[sarguy1941]

That sounds like a long path for the mic cable. Did you use an extension or have any issues with reach? Or have issues with reach when pulling it up to speak?

CAT6E Shielded extension. No issues

 

[Coldtoes]

Thanks!, I was wondering if that was a CAT connection. That sure makes install options flexible...

 

[JTPatriot]

Mine is the 275 but I mounted the base unit under my passenger front seat with an extension that is hiding up under the dash on the passenger side.

 

[KenNessee]

Longer bolt and a spacer where the bolt is behind that plastic circle piece. 275 but should be same. I had my CB there before no issues.

 

[AKID_RBM]

After the Ozark guy's Video I decided to go with the XT575. I like the idea of the hidden aspect of the mount. How did you guys wire yours up for power? Anyone else run the extra speaker?

 

[JTPatriot]

I used one of these https://www.amazon.com/Volt-Power-Adapter-Wrangler-Gladiator/dp/B087T2W99F
As I did not have the factory auxiliary switches.

 

[sarguy1941]

I used the 12v switched in my harness for switches.

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