About time.
OP is attempting to figure out why the signal is so directional and weak using either the wire antenna or a CB whip directly attached to the internal antenna port. It was suggested that perhaps the TH unit may have a problem and that very well could be the case.
Without even some basic testing gear, or a known good unit to compare, it won't be easy to determine if the unit is defective.
Some report a range of about 1/4 mile using the wire antenna and doing so with the unit running indoors. I know this to be true as I have tested one with the simple wire antenna inside a mobile home which has metal siding and this siding is continuity all around and the entire mobile home is strapped down and anchored to the ground, each anchor sporting a 4 ft ground rod and connected. Yet the TH unit and it's wire antenna pushed the signal 1/4 mile easily.
RFB
Interesting scenario there @RFB with the well grounded metal building.
Picked up various CB mount pieces (not everything I need) but have some options now for mounting.
Also picked up some cables and my audio balun came in the mail.
So, now looking to expand the testing environment beyond the two and close to each other areas where I've tested the TH unit so far.
Been looking at the environment here and there are ample obstructions although not directly in the shadows of most (i.e. neighboring homes with aluminum siding, three large oak trees, power lines, my brick buildings, etc.).
Have an unused flagpole out front that about to start plotting a testing setup of the transmitter there on.
The journey continues 🙂