2025 RAV4 Ham Radio Install

I recently installed my Yaesu FTM-500D in my 2025 Toyota Rav4 Hybrid Woodland Edition. 

Radio Head

I was able to mount the radio head into an open storage space on the dashboard. I created and printed a 3D bracket that screws onto the back of the radio head and the whole unit firmly clicks into place. 

Radio Body

I mounted the radio body in the trunk with command strips. In the future, I'm considering moving it inside of the plastic molding to better conceal and protect the radio.

Cabling

The radio head connects to the body with standard (thin-run) CAT-6 cable, which I was able to run under the cargo floor mat, then through the driver-side cable runs. 

The 12v battery in the Rav4 is located in the rear cargo area, so I connected the radio directly to the battery with 10AWG wire including an inline 30A fuse. 

Antenna

Modified Diamond NMO lip mount attached to an existing gap on the roof rails. I've since added a grounding wire.

Using a 7.5" 2M/220/440 CompacTenna. I'll be bonding additional surfaces with tinned copper mesh to further improve SWR.