I think that getting a book on VHF that covers the subjects of FM repeaters,
half duplex, offset, simplex, PL, sub-audible tones, CTCSS, SSB, line of
sight range, antennas and antenna height will answer your questions.

It really is too much to cover here.

Here are some books you need to read.
The ARRL Operating Manual for Radio Amateurs
http://www.arrl.org/catalog/?category=Operating&words=

GUIDE TO FM REPEATERS
http://www.ac6v.com/FM101.htm

A Great ON-Line Guide for
Repeaters - What they are and how to use them
http://www2.arrl.org/tis/info/pdf/repeater1.pdf

This may require ARRL membership -- but it is exactly what you need to read

Just one comment on your question"I have people
telling me that these older radios are not "pl tone capable" which
would not allow me to use some repeaters.

Again see Communication Specialists -- they make add on PL units for older
radios
http://www.com-spec.com/

--
Caveat Lecter



wrote in message
oups.com...
I have a newer mobile Icon 2 meter in my truck. Several of the settings
are "automatic" when calling into repeaters. Like, when I call into a
repeater at 147.330 when I transmitt the frequency changes.

I have been thinking of getting an older, cheap radio for inside my
house. Would like ssb capability. On these radios, how does the
frequency change when transmitting using a repeater? I have people
telling me that these older radios are not "pl tone capable" which
would not allow me to use some repeaters. (Only a few around here use
that). How exactly does pl tone work. Like I said my radio in my truck
is pretty much automatic.