Troubleshooting
Diagnose and fix common CB radio problems
Guides
Checking and Setting SWR on a CB Radio
Learn what SWR means, why it matters, and how to correctly check and adjust SWR on your CB radio using built-in meters or external SWR meters. Simple explanations, step-by-step instructions, and antenna tuning tips.
Why does my SWR change when I increase power output?
Increasing power doesn’t cause high SWR — it exposes existing flaws in the antenna system.
How to Clean Scratchy CB Radio Controls with Contact Cleaner
Got a scratchy or noisy volume knob on your CB? Dust and oxidation build up on the potentiometer contacts inside. Here's a quick how-to using canned electronics cleaner to bring those controls back to smooth, quiet operation.
My Stryker 655 or 955 isn't turning on!
Turning on your Stryker radio stumps a lot of people, we'll quickly fix that now.
Quick answers on troubleshooting
All answers →Why can't I receive any signals on my CB radio?
Check these in order: 1) Squelch set too high - turn counterclockwise, 2) Volume turned up? 3) Antenna properly connected? 4) Are you on an active channel (19 is most popular)? 5) Try both AM and SSB modes if available. 6) Check antenna SWR - high SWR can affect receive.
My CB radio doesn't transmit
Troubleshooting steps: 1) Check microphone connection - fully seated? 2) Try a different microphone if available, 3) Check SWR - high SWR can prevent transmission, 4) Verify antenna connection, 5) Check power - some radios need 13.8V for full power, 6) Some radios have a TX disable switch.
How do I turn on my Stryker 655 or 955?
Turn the VOL knob on the bottom left. Do NOT turn the RF PWR / MON knob in the top left - these controls are for different functions.
Why does SWR change when I move my antenna?
SWR changes because the antenna interacts with nearby metal, wiring, and the vehicle body. Moving the antenna changes its electrical environment. Even small changes in location or mounting can affect SWR, which is why SWR should always be rechecked after repositioning an antenna.
How do I tune a cut-to-tune CB antenna?
Cut-to-tune fiberglass antennas are tuned by shortening the antenna in small increments. Start with the antenna uncut. Check SWR on channels 1 and 40. If channel 40 is higher, carefully cut 1/8 to 1/4 inch from the top of the antenna. Recheck SWR after each cut. Never cut too much at once, as material cannot be added back.
How do I tune a tunable-tip CB antenna?
Tunable-tip antennas use an adjustable metal tip or screw to change antenna length. To tune, check SWR on channels 1 and 40. If channel 40 is higher, raise the tip to shorten the antenna electrically. If channel 1 is higher, lower the tip to lengthen it. Make small adjustments and recheck SWR each time.
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