86 power antenna removal

[Johnkaye]

I am replacing my antenna. Can anyone help me with removal of the power antenna? I removed the 2 nuts and unplugged the 3 wire plug that is under the back window molding. I just can't see what else has to be disconnected. Bifocals don't help. Thanks.......
John

 

[Justardnck]

This is a stupid question but do you need the whole antenna assy, most of the time you only need a mast... the motor usually works fine.

 

[Johnkaye]

It kept on running so I cut 2 wires till it stopped. Before I cut them, while it was running the mast did not move. So now i thought to pull it all out and replace something.

 

[Justardnck]

It should stop running after a while... there are 2 things that could be wrong here.

1) the mast is broken and is an easy replacement by removing the top nut , turning the radio on and pulling on the mast as it comes out. Then replace it with a GM only part... $29.00 (I have done this many times)
While you have the mast out compare it to the new one and make sure it is the same length... if its not you more than likely have a piece of the gear strip stuck in the motor assy. If that is the case you need to proceed to step 2.

2) Remove the motor assy and disassemble to remove broken ribbon pieces to be able to install the new mast. (I have never had to do this step before)

 

[JonM]

John...there is a large plastic nut on top underside of the antenna. It is connected to the grommet where the antenna mast comes through the body. Unless you have very long arms to reach it, you need to remove the wheel and the inner fender; Here is a link to replace just the mast.



http://www.corvettemagazine.com/2002/february/antenna/ant1.asp

 

[Justardnck]

John...there is a large plastic nut on top underside of the antenna. It is connected to the grommet where the antenna mast comes through the body. Unless you have very long arms to reach it, you need to remove the wheel and the inner fender; Here is a link to replace just the mast.



http://www.corvettemagazine.com/2002/february/antenna/ant1.asp

Just to replace the mast??? I have never done that, I always just remove the retaining nut on the top of the quarter panel then have someone turn on the radio and pull the old one out. To replace just feed in the new mast till it stops then have someone turn one the radio and it will grab the new mast then reinstall the retaining nut... I just did mine about 3 months ago.

My antenna worked though, but it would not go up or down all the way (slightly bent)

 

[Johnkaye]

Thanks to all who replied. I now have the idea how to go about it. Remove tire, fender wall, big nut and gromet. I'll attack it this holiday weekend.Thank you very much...........


John

 

[Moonunit 451]

I didn't look at Jon's link, but I was able to do it with assistance. I had the car in the air and it was a lot of hard work. I then took the unit apart and followed the directions provided with the replacement mast. Good Luck!