I am in the application process for AFMARS. I am looking at purchasing from you a modified Yaesu FT-710. My question is would I be able to operate on 2.0-30 MHz using an MFJ-1982HP, END FED, 1/2 WAVE, 80-10M, 800W, WIRE ANTENNA? Would it require an external tuner and if so, what would be the best tuner to run with the FT-710? If this is the wrong antenna solution, what antenna should I get?
David,
2.0 is just slightly above the 160 meter band of 1.8, so with your 80 - 10 meter end fed, I would definitely recommend an external tuner. Your FT-710 has a good antenna tuner that tunes from about 3:1 swr so an external tuner is warranted. I recommend the LDG Z-100A tuner SKU: ZLD-Z-100A which requires the LDG IC-108 interface cable SKU: ZLD-IC-108
https://www.gigaparts.com/ldg-z-100a-automatic-antenna-tuner.html
https://www.gigaparts.com/ldg-ic-108-interface-cable.html
This fine tuner will let you tune the MARS frequencies as well as a variety of antennas. It will tune up to a 10:1 SWR. Both items are in stock and ready to order.
You will be well pleased with this tuner, and the FT-710 is a superb radio!
Hope this helps!