When first setting up a radio or moving a radio to a new, permanent location, its antenna needs to be tuned. Learning how to tune an antenna entails lengthening or shortening the antenna so that, for the radio's specific frequency, it is working as efficiently as possible.In order to tune an antenna, a radio needs to be hooked up to an SWR (standing wave ratio) meter using coaxial cables.This guide will teach you how to test an antenna's efficiency using an SWR meter, and how to tune your antenna accordingly.o to an open area free from buildings, trees, radio towers, or other structures. Ad. 2. Put your radio and antenna in the positions in which you will use them. 1  For a CB radio, put the radio in the car and the antenna on the body of the vehicle.