[VHFcontesting] Another rookie question

[k4gun at comcast.net]

You guys have out done yourselves.  Between the posted replies and several private e-mails, I have a much better idea of how to go into this contest as a first time "Limited Rover".  What I am noticing is that there is not one single answer for everybody.  Each person is doing things different and it seems like its based on station capabilities, operating style, populations, location and activity levels.  I've found advice in each reply that I can use in my operating situation.  I will be taking a little bit from each of you.

Just to let you know what I'm working with, I'll give a basic description of what I have and what the plans are.  I have an Icom IC7000 mounted in the console box of my truck that I have been using for a few months.  I'm pretty comfortable using it on the move and have become fairly adept at using the functions with a minimum of distraction (I even worked a few split DX stations while driving 70 MPH down I-95).  I also have an IC 746 Pro that is going into the back seat.  I have an aux battery in the tool box of the truck with a power panel in the cab to run everything.

For antennas, I have two painter's poles that are reinforced with PVC pipe and bolted to a cargo divider across the bed.  On the first pole, I have stacked loops for 2 meters and 432.  On the second pole, I have a single loop.  These are the antennas for use while moving.  When I reach a place to set up, I have an Elk log periodic for 2/432 on a quick detach mount that goes on the 6 meter loop pole.  I also have a Stressed Moxon that goes on the other pole and attaches with only two thumb screws.  The painter's poles will raise each antenna roughly 19' above the ground.  Total set up time from park to operating is less than 5 minutes.  

Both directional antennas will be aimed toward the front of the truck.  The truck has a factory navigation system with a built in compass.  I'll rotate the truck as needed to aim the antennas.  The factory nav also has a function to show exact longitude and latitude.  With that and a small paper map, I'll know exactly when I cross into a new grid.

The plan is to start on a mountain and operate for about 3 hours.  I'll then move to the beach which is at a grid corner and includes two fairly rare grids (FM26 and 27).  I'll be taking a slightly circuitous route which will put me in two other grids for only a few miles.  I will not be stopping in those but will make contacts while moving to "open" them for the multiplier.  

Earlier this month, I made a scouting trip to the beach and found several suitable places to operate.  While there, I made a number of VHF contacts with both directional and omni antennas.  The Elk antenna gives a big advantage to the 432 stack, but the 2 meter stack proved to be as effective as the Elk on that band.

At about sunset on Sunday, I'll head North.  I found a nice rest stop about a mile into FM29 on my way home where I could set up if I have the time, energy and there is enough activity to warrant it.  From there, I head home where I'll finish up close to the house.  

Based on everybody's input, I'll be refining this and figuring out how loose or tight to make my schedule and how and when to run and when to S&P.  I'll likely have a co-pilot to help me log as well.  I'm still working out details, but this list has been invaluable so far.