power antenna issue

[Bills money pit]

Now that the carb has been repaired and all is well in that area, the only part that I have not fixed is the power antenna.....

When I purchased the car, the antenna did not work so I took out the drivers
side rear speaker and found the previous owner had disconnected it. I removed the antenna assemble and took it apart and found the plastic lead (plastic part to the mast) was broken. I ordered a repair kit from ecklers and replaced it and reinstalled. It still would not work so I replaced the relay and it started working for about a month. It once again stopped working and it would only work if I got under the car and tapped on it with a screwdriver or hammer handle.

I want to keep the car as orginal as possible so I want to fix the orginal unit or order a reproduction for ecklers for 169.00.

Does anyone have any suggestions to fix the orginal unit. The motor is strong and the brushes are in good condition. I used emery cloth to clear the armature and brushes. It appears to me the problem is in the switch because when I tap on the housing the antenna goes all the way up but will not come down unless I tap on it again. Lately, it will go up when tapped on but now does not want to go down even if tapped on.....

Sorry for the long explaination but words are cheap. Also, I have checked the ground strap with an ohm meter and there is ground.

Thanks!
Bill

 

[srs244]

bill
there is a post in the general discussion section regarding power antennas. you might want to check it out.

steve

 

[TJay]

Bill here's the link (incase it gets lost) about this same issue in general

http://www.corvetteactioncenter.com/forums/showthread.php?t=82212

 

[wishuwerehere82]

Bill,

Since you have taken it apart, and know what's in there, Take a look at the limit switches in the motor housing. The contacts will burn and stop making continuity to the motor. You can burnish them with a pocket knife or a file, but don't sand them with emory cloth. That will make them pit faster.