RFI TLM-5 Black Stainless Steel L Guard Bracket - Universal 16mm Hole Trunk Lip Mount Antenna Bracket with Professional Black Finish and Self-Drilling Hardware for Sedan, Hatchback, and Wagon UHF CB Installation

RFI TLM-5 Black Stainless Steel L Guard Bracket - Universal 16mm Hole Trunk Lip Mount Antenna Bracket with Professional Black Finish and Self-Drilling Hardware for Sedan, Hatchback, and Wagon UHF CB Installation

Achieve professional trunk lip antenna mounting with RFI TLM-5 Black Stainless Steel L Guard Bracket—featuring durable black powder-coated finish providing enhanced corrosion resistance and discreet low-profile appearance matching modern vehicle aesthetics, heavy-duty 1.5mm stainless steel construction ensuring robust mounting platform for UHF CB antennas and communication equipment, proven L-shaped bracket geometry providing simple effective mounting solution for trunk lip installations, standard 16mm antenna mounting hole accommodating conventional UHF antenna bases with threaded stud configurations, trunk lip mount design specifically engineered for sedan, hatchback, and wagon boot lid installations eliminating drilling holes in vehicle bodywork, included self-drilling screws (2 supplied) enabling direct attachment to trunk lip without pre-drilling holes, compact 50mm length maintaining minimal visual impact while providing secure antenna support, professional black finish complementing dark-colored vehicles and blending seamlessly with modern automotive styling, corrosion-resistant coating protecting against Australian coastal salt spray and harsh environmental conditions, universal vehicle compatibility suitable for passenger vehicles requiring trunk-mounted antenna solutions, and proven RFI quality engineering delivering reliable trunk lip antenna mounting solution for passenger vehicle communication installations.

Product Overview

Trunk Lip Mount BLACK. Identical to TLM-3 except black.

The TLM-5 1.5mm Black stainless steel 'L' shape fender mount bracket includes 2 x self drilling screws. Bracket is 50mm long with 16mm hole.

Key Features

Professional Black Powder-Coated Finish - Durable black coating provides enhanced corrosion resistance, subtle low-profile appearance, and professional aesthetic matching modern vehicle styling.

Heavy-Duty 1.5mm Stainless Steel Construction - Robust stainless steel material provides substantial mounting strength supporting UHF antennas during vehicle operation while maintaining corrosion resistance for long-term reliability.

L-Shaped Bracket Geometry - Simple effective L-bracket design provides straightforward trunk lip mounting solution without complex offset geometry required for fender installations.

Standard 16mm Mounting Hole - Accommodates conventional UHF antenna bases with threaded stud configurations ensuring compatibility with most aftermarket CB antennas.

Included Self-Drilling Screws for Direct Attachment - Complete hardware package includes 2 self-drilling screws enabling direct bracket attachment to trunk lip without pre-drilling pilot holes.

Compact 50mm Length Design - Short bracket length maintains minimal visual intrusion while providing secure antenna mounting platform suitable for passenger vehicle trunk installations.

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the difference between TLM-5 L Guard and TLM-6 Z Guard brackets?

A: TLM-5 and TLM-6 both feature black powder-coated finish for trunk lip mounting but differ in bracket geometry and dimensional specifications. Bracket design comparison: TLM-5 uses L-shaped bracket geometry providing simple 90-degree angle mounting, TLM-6 uses Z-shaped bracket geometry providing offset mounting positioning antenna away from trunk surface. Dimensional differences: TLM-5 compact 50mm length with 1.5mm material thickness, TLM-6 larger 8-inch length with 3-inch width and height proportions. Mounting hole specifications: both brackets feature 16mm circular hole accommodating standard UHF antenna bases, identical antenna compatibility and mounting method. Application suitability: TLM-5 L Guard design suited for straightforward trunk lip installations requiring minimal offset, simpler installation with less complex geometry, suitable for most sedan and hatchback applications. TLM-6 Z Guard design provides greater offset distance between trunk surface and antenna, useful when additional clearance required, larger dimensions provide potentially greater mounting stability. Hardware inclusion: TLM-5 includes 2 self-drilling screws for direct installation, TLM-6 mounting hardware depends on specific trunk lip configuration. Selection criteria: choose TLM-5 for simple compact trunk lip mounting, standard sedan/hatchback installations, situations where minimal bracket profile desired. Choose TLM-6 for installations requiring greater antenna offset from trunk surface, vehicles where larger bracket provides better trunk lip engagement, applications benefiting from Z-bracket geometry. Both brackets deliver reliable mounting performance with choice based on specific installation requirements and vehicle trunk lip configuration.

Q: What is the difference between TLM-5 and TLM-3?

A: TLM-5 identical to TLM-3 in all structural dimensions, bracket geometry, and mounting design—sole difference is black powder-coated finish compared to TLM-3's natural stainless steel finish. Functional specifications: both brackets feature same 1.5mm stainless steel core material, identical L-shaped bracket design, same 50mm length dimension, equivalent 16mm mounting hole, and identical self-drilling screw hardware (2 included). Finish comparison: TLM-5 black coating provides enhanced corrosion protection and discreet appearance ideal for dark-colored vehicles or installations prioritizing subtle aesthetics, TLM-3 natural stainless steel finish offers traditional bright metallic appearance. Performance equivalence: both brackets deliver identical mounting strength, antenna support capability, and long-term durability. Selection criteria: choose TLM-5 for black or dark-colored vehicles where matching finish desired, professional installations prioritizing subtle appearance, enhanced corrosion protection in harsh environments, modern aesthetic preferences. Choose TLM-3 for traditional stainless steel appearance, vehicles with chrome or bright trim, installations where metallic finish preferred. Pricing typically similar between models with finish selection based on aesthetic preferences rather than functional requirements. Installation procedures identical: same mounting method, same hardware, same trunk lip attachment approach regardless of finish selection.

Q: How does L Guard bracket design compare to Z Guard for trunk mounting?

A: L Guard and Z Guard bracket designs represent different geometric approaches to trunk lip antenna mounting—each offering distinct advantages for specific installation scenarios. L Guard geometry (TLM-5): simple 90-degree L-shaped bracket providing direct vertical mounting from trunk lip, antenna mounts perpendicular to trunk surface with minimal offset, compact straightforward design suitable for most standard trunk lip installations, easier installation with less complex bracket orientation. Z Guard geometry (TLM-6, TLM-7): compound Z-shaped profile creating offset between trunk lip mounting point and antenna position, positions antenna away from trunk surface providing clearance for connections and cable routing, more complex geometry potentially providing enhanced mounting stability, useful when antenna must clear trunk surface irregularities or provide specific offset distance. Mounting position differences: L Guard positions antenna closer to trunk surface with vertical orientation, Z Guard offsets antenna forward or backward from mounting point creating separation from trunk. Application considerations: L Guard adequate for most passenger vehicle trunk installations where simple vertical mounting sufficient, compact L design maintains low profile and minimal visual impact. Z Guard beneficial when additional clearance needed between antenna base and trunk surface, situations requiring specific antenna positioning relative to trunk lip, installations where offset improves cable routing or connection access. Structural comparison: both designs provide adequate strength for standard UHF CB antenna installations, material thickness and construction quality more important than bracket geometry for mounting security. Selection guidance: evaluate specific trunk lip configuration and antenna positioning requirements, consider whether simple L mounting adequate or if Z offset provides installation advantages, both designs proven effective for trunk lip antenna mounting with choice based on individual installation needs.

Q: Can TLM-5 be used on surfaces other than trunk lips?

A: While TLM-5 specifically designed for trunk lip mounting applications, bracket potentially adaptable to other mounting surfaces depending on surface characteristics and installation requirements. Trunk lip optimization: L Guard bracket geometry engineered specifically for trunk lip edge mounting, 50mm length and L-shape profile suited to typical trunk lip dimensions and angles, included self-drilling screws appropriate for trunk lip sheet metal thickness. Alternative mounting surfaces potentially compatible: door jamb edges if dimensions and angles appropriate, tailgate lips on wagons and SUVs with suitable edge configurations, other body panel edges with 90-degree edge profiles matching L bracket geometry, mounting surfaces with adequate material thickness supporting self-drilling screw attachment. Surface requirements for successful installation: adequate material thickness supporting self-drilling screw attachment (typically 0.8-1.5mm sheet metal), 90-degree or near-90-degree edge angle matching L bracket geometry, sufficient edge width engaging bracket mounting surface, structural integrity supporting antenna weight and wind loading. Considerations for non-trunk applications: verify L bracket geometry appropriate for alternative mounting surface angle, ensure self-drilling screws adequate for specific material thickness, consider whether simple L design provides proper antenna orientation for desired mounting location, evaluate alternative RFI brackets potentially better suited for specific non-trunk applications. Non-recommended surfaces: flat body panels without edge profiles (require different bracket designs like TLM-7 with compensating angles), surfaces with acute or obtuse angles not matching L bracket 90-degree geometry, thin flexible panels lacking structural support, areas where antenna interferes with vehicle operation. Professional recommendation: use TLM-5 at designed trunk lip mounting locations ensuring proper fitment and proven compatibility, if alternative mounting locations considered, carefully evaluate surface characteristics and bracket geometry compatibility, consult RFI product catalog for brackets specifically engineered for desired mounting applications, consider professional installer consultation for non-standard mounting scenarios.

Q: What trunk lip thickness can TLM-5 self-drilling screws handle?

A: Self-drilling screws included with TLM-5 suitable for typical automotive trunk lip sheet metal thickness ranging 0.8-1.5mm common for passenger vehicle boot lids. Trunk lip material specifications: most modern sedans, hatchbacks, and wagons use 0.8-1.2mm steel trunk lids for weight optimization, some older or commercial vehicles may feature 1.2-1.5mm thicker trunk panels, aftermarket trunk lids or modified vehicles may have variable thickness requiring verification. Self-drilling screw capabilities: designed penetrating sheet metal within automotive trunk thickness range, hardened drill point creating pilot hole during installation, adequate thread engagement securing bracket without pull-through risk, thread design providing secure grip preventing loosening from vibration. Installation success factors: power drill or impact driver adequate for metal penetration, firm consistent pressure maintaining screw perpendicular during penetration, controlled speed preventing screw breakage or excessive heat generation, proper bit engagement preventing screw head damage during installation. Trunk lip edge considerations: trunk lip edges often doubled or reinforced metal providing additional thickness and strength, doubled edges (two layers of sheet metal) effectively 1.6-3.0mm requiring more powerful installation, verify screw length adequate penetrating doubled material without excessive protrusion. Challenging scenarios requiring modification: very thick trunk lips (2.0mm+ single thickness or heavily reinforced edges) may require pre-drilling pilot holes assisting screw penetration, aluminum trunk lids require corrosion-resistant fasteners preventing galvanic corrosion, fiberglass or composite trunk lids may require alternative fastener types. Screw length considerations: supplied screws adequate length for typical single or doubled trunk lip thickness, verify screw does not penetrate excessively into trunk interior contacting stored items or trim panels, adequate thread engagement typically 3-4 screw threads minimum in trunk material. Pre-installation assessment: measure trunk lip thickness using calipers at proposed mounting location, verify measurement within 0.8-1.5mm range confirming standard screw suitability, inspect trunk lip edge for reinforcements or unusual construction requiring installation modifications, test-fit bracket on trunk lip before final installation verifying proper engagement and screw positioning.