[Shotimes] Re: Antenna Wrench

[fwhittle@mindspring.com]

On a related note--I don't remember if I mentioned this before, but you can get a replacement mast at Autozone, part number AW-PWR22.  It doesn't fit as packaged (too big in diameter due to an extra segment), but if your old mast is unbent you can swap the thinnest segment of the mast (with the toothed plastic cord attached) from the replacement to the original.  Use vise grips on the mast section (padded with a towel to prevent damage to the new one) and the appropriate size socket to remove the little knob from the end of the old mast and pull the cord out from the bottom.  The knob on the new mast is round, so you'll need to use 2 vise grips instead of a socket.  Install the new mast portion and cord into the remainder of the old mast, replace the knob, and you're good to go.  The only part you'll use from the new mast is the thin segment with cord attached.  Price is $20 (I don't remember the price of the Ford replacement, but it's probably more).  Autozone also has the entire replacement power antenna assembly for around $30.  I don't know how well it works as a replacement, though.

I recently replaced my mast for the second time.  The first time, I didn't bother to remove the broken piece of cord from the motor (Helms said not to bother).  It didn't occur to me that the second failure may have been hastened by that decision.  I did have to remove the broken pieces this time around though, as the antenna wouldn't retract fully.  Real PITA to replace the screw that holds the unit in place inside the fender.  A smaller person may be able to get inside there and use both hands to make it easier, though (or maybe if the car is up in the air).

Frank Whittle
'95 ATX  

From: Beisler Jonathon <Jonathon.Beisler@HCAhealthcare.com>
To: "'vanOss@centurytel.net'" <vanOss@centurytel.net>, Shotimes
  <shotimes@autox.team.net>
Date: Mon, 16 Aug 2004 11:00:50 -0500
Subject: [Shotimes] Antenna Wrench

Joseph,

As was said earlier, I used a deep socket 14 mm.  Even with the deep head,
it was not long enough to place the ratchet into it because what was left of
my antenna stuck up through the square hole.  What I did was use a pair of
needle nose pliers, spread enough to catch the corners of the socket and
turned it with that.  In my experience, the nut was not on too tightly.
Once I got it loose, I used my magnet grabber thingy to pull the nut out.
Tightened the nut back the same way with the install and have never had any
problems.
Hope this helps.

JB