Replacing The Oem Power Antenna With A Shorty/fixed Mast Antenna

Okay, let's talk about that pesky OEM power antenna. We've all been there. That whirring sound that lasts a little too long, the mast that gets stuck halfway up, or worse, the dreaded snapping sound followed by radio silence. While those power antennas were fancy back in the day, they can be a real headache. Fortunately, there's a reliable and often more aesthetically pleasing solution: swapping it out for a shorty or fixed mast antenna.

Why Choose a Shorty or Fixed Mast Antenna?

Before we dive into the how-to, let's cover the why. Several reasons make this upgrade appealing:

Reliability: Power antennas have moving parts, making them inherently more prone to failure. Fixed masts? Solid and dependable.
Aesthetics: Some folks just prefer the cleaner, more streamlined look of a shorty or fixed mast. No more clunky chrome sticking out.
Cost: Repairing a power antenna can get expensive quickly, especially if you're replacing the entire motor assembly. A fixed mast is generally a much more budget-friendly option.
Convenience: No more worrying about the antenna getting damaged in car washes or low-hanging branches.

Is This Project Right for You?

The complexity of this project depends on your car and your comfort level with basic car repairs. If you're comfortable removing interior trim panels, working with basic hand tools, and following instructions, then you should be able to tackle this. If you're unsure, don't hesitate to take your car to a professional. There is absolutely no shame in taking it to a trusted mechanic. Safety first!

Tools and Materials You'll Need

Here's a list of what you'll likely need for this project:

New Shorty or Fixed Mast Antenna: Make sure you get one that's compatible with your vehicle's make, model, and year. Crucial!
Socket Set: A standard socket set with metric sizes is a must.
Wrench Set: Similar to the socket set, make sure you have a range of metric wrenches.
Screwdrivers: Both Phillips head and flathead screwdrivers will be handy.
Pliers: Needle-nose pliers can be helpful for disconnecting electrical connectors.
Wire Cutters/Strippers: If you need to splice any wires, these are essential.
Electrical Tape or Heat Shrink Tubing: For insulating any wire splices. Always insulate your connections!
Panel Removal Tools (Optional but Recommended): These plastic tools help remove interior trim panels without damaging them. A flathead screwdriver *can* work, but be very careful not to scratch or break anything.
Penetrating Oil (Optional): If the antenna base is rusted, penetrating oil can help loosen things up. WD-40 *can* work, but specific penetrating oils like PB Blaster or Liquid Wrench are better.
Multimeter (Optional): For testing electrical connections if needed.
Gloves: Keep your hands clean and protected.
Safety Glasses: Always a good idea when working on your car.

Step-by-Step Guide: Antenna Replacement

Important Note: These steps are a general guideline. Your specific vehicle may have slight variations. Always consult your vehicle's service manual for the most accurate instructions. Disconnect the negative battery cable before starting any electrical work. This is a *critical* safety precaution.

Step 1: Accessing the Power Antenna

The first step is to access the power antenna. This usually involves removing interior trim panels in the trunk, rear fender, or wheel well area. Refer to your vehicle's service manual or online resources to locate the antenna and identify the necessary trim panels to remove. Use panel removal tools to gently pry off the trim, being careful not to break any clips.

Step 2: Disconnecting the Power Antenna

Once you have access to the antenna, locate the electrical connector and the antenna cable. Disconnect both. The electrical connector usually has a clip that you'll need to press to release it. The antenna cable is typically a coaxial cable with a threaded connector. Unscrew it carefully.

Step 3: Removing the Old Antenna

The antenna is usually held in place by one or more bolts or nuts. Use the appropriate socket or wrench to remove these fasteners. You may need to use penetrating oil if the fasteners are rusted. Once the fasteners are removed, carefully pull the old antenna out. Note the orientation of the antenna before removing it; this will help you install the new one correctly.

Step 4: Installing the New Antenna

Now it's time to install the new shorty or fixed mast antenna. Align the antenna in the same orientation as the old one and secure it with the bolts or nuts you removed earlier. Tighten the fasteners securely, but don't overtighten them.

Step 5: Connecting the New Antenna

Connect the antenna cable to the new antenna. This may involve adapting the existing cable or using a new cable that comes with the new antenna. If you need to splice wires, use wire cutters/strippers to prepare the wires and then use electrical tape or heat shrink tubing to insulate the connections. Properly insulated connections are essential to prevent shorts and corrosion. Connect the electrical connector if your replacement antenna requires it (some shorty antennas are passive and only require the antenna cable connection).

Step 6: Testing the New Antenna

Before putting everything back together, reconnect the negative battery cable and test the radio reception. If the reception is poor, check all your connections and make sure the antenna is properly grounded. A multimeter can be helpful for diagnosing electrical issues.

Step 7: Reassembling the Trim Panels

If everything is working correctly, carefully reassemble the interior trim panels you removed earlier. Make sure all the clips are properly seated. Take your time and be gentle to avoid damaging the panels.

Troubleshooting Tips

Poor Radio Reception: This is the most common issue. Double-check all your connections, especially the antenna cable connection. Make sure the antenna is properly grounded. If you live in a rural area with weak radio signals, a shorter antenna may not provide adequate reception. Consider a slightly longer fixed mast or an amplified antenna.
Loose Connections: A loose connection can cause intermittent radio reception or even no reception at all. Make sure all your connections are tight and secure.
Damaged Wiring: If you suspect damaged wiring, use a multimeter to check for continuity. Repair or replace any damaged wires.
Antenna Not Fitting: Make sure you purchased the correct antenna for your vehicle. Check the antenna base and mounting hardware to ensure they are compatible.

Cost Considerations

The cost of this project can vary depending on the cost of the antenna and whether you hire a professional. A good quality shorty or fixed mast antenna can range from $20 to $100. If you hire a professional, expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $200 in labor, depending on the complexity of the job and the shop's hourly rate. Doing it yourself can save you a significant amount of money.

Conclusion

Replacing your OEM power antenna with a shorty or fixed mast antenna is a worthwhile project that can improve the reliability and aesthetics of your car. By following these steps and taking your time, you can successfully complete this project and enjoy better radio reception and a cleaner look. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult your vehicle's service manual for specific instructions. Good luck, and happy listening!