Need help to reduce engine noise

[BigDave]

I have so much engine/altenator noise on HF that it is almost imposible to to QSO while driving down the road. It has been this way ever since the original install. I've just lived with it. I would hope there is a solution.
Any suggestions?
Rig:
98 Chevy Suburban 5.7l
Yaesu 857d wired direct to battery
Apline Antenna Screwdriver for HF, http://alpineantenna.com/main/page_prod ... ennas.html model 100bp

There is no noise at all on vhf/uhf, nice and quiet.

Thanks

[DaveK]

Dave:

Engine noise is sometimes the most difficult problem to diagnose and cure. When you said that the 857 was wired directly to the battery, did this mean that both the pos and neg cables went directly to the battery? Are any other accessories also using the same power cables? Are you sure that the noise that you hear is the alternator?

When it comes to screwdriver antennas, (and mobile antennas in general), I have discovered, from personal experience, that one of the very best sources of information is Alan Applegate's website, http://www.k0bg.com/ . Any one who operates mobile is well served to take the time to read his information. On his website, scroll down to the section entitled, "Noise ID", and read his comments and suggestions. He has recorded the various types of noise so that you can more accurately diagnose your problem. He also refers to another site that can be of help, http://www.arrl.org/tis/info/HTML/rfi-noise/ .

Consider this to be a richly rewarding emotional experience and it will make the job a little easier. Good luck.

[BigDave]

Thanks for the information Dave.

It looks like I'll be doing some reading.

I've been thinking about putting in a 2nd battery. Mounting it with a heavy duty boat style on/off switch and wiring all my radios to it. Therefore isolating the battery from everything. When I need to charge the 2nd battery turn the switch to on and let the engine do it. I'll still be able to start my truck off the main battery when i've been playing on the radio too much and have drained the 2nd battery.