Karma, nowadays, triangulating a radio signal can be done relatively quickly and with surprising accuracy, thanks to GPS, sensitive radios with advanced tuning, and portable computer equipment.
Back in the 1980's, however, triangulation would have required more time, effort, and personnel. It wouldn't surprise me at all that even the FCC wasn't able to find the guy in two minutes.
Don't even think about pulling such a thing these days (even if it were feasible) - they WILL catch pirates.