I installed an overhead MOLLE panel mainly to relocate my GMRS radio to a better spot. With the radio and handset overhead, the built-in speaker is clear enough that I no longer need an external speaker.
The panel I used is the Joytutus overhead MOLLE panel (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DPHRWGP7). Installation wasn’t bolt-on but required cutting some interior plastic trim to get everything to fit correctly.
I routed both power and the antenna coax through the A-pillar. The radio is tied to one of my auxiliary switches and is configured so it can run without the vehicle being in the RUN position, which has been convenient, but I need to remember to not leave the radio on.
The antenna is still in a theoretically poor location, mounted on a plastic fender with no real ground plane. That said, performance has been fine so far for what we’re using it for, groups operating in relatively close proximity. I may move it later, but it’s acceptable for now.
The radio body is mounted on top of the MOLLE panel using cable ties. It feels secure now, but I plan to keep an eye on it and may switch to a more permanent mounting solution later. The handset has a mount underneath the MOLLE panel for easy access and is currently held in place with a small bolt.
