somnoboy

I've got a new mast. I found the threads discussing this previously. I see the excellent tutorial on lexls.

Here's the thing: I can't get the antenna mounting nut off using the screwdriver method documented by the lexls tutorial. Also saw on another thread that the NAPA part # 775-9033 is the correct socket for this bolt, but a) it is a three prong socket, whereas the bolt on the car is four prong, b) the NAPA online site says that the socket is not sold online, and c) my local NAPA store doesn't carry the socket.

A local mechanic recommended trying needle nose pliers to get this thing off, but I don't have a small enough set around the house.

Anyone else have any better luck with getting the mast bolt unscrewed?

gtoden1

Protect the body of the car and use a flat head screw driver with a small hammer, tap lightly, make sure you are going in the right direction.

somnoboy

Thanks gtoden. I went out to the car to give it a try with a hammer, but I just couldn't bring myself to do it. I'm sure I'll slip and ding the paint. So, I tried again with the screwdriver as per lexls, and actually got some movement (about 1/10th of a turn), but no breakage of the seal. I guess after 19 years the nut may be frozen in place?

I'm about ready to throw in the towel on doing this DIY. I guess I'll bring the car with antenna to my local ex-Lexus guy. If he can't work it out, then I guess it's off to my local Lexus store, which I absolutely hate doing.

???

AzHotLS

iTrader: (1)

You could prolly spray WD40 or other thread loosening product from the inside of the trunk.

PureDrifter

iTrader: (10)

pb blaster works better

somnoboy

Thanks for the suggestions. I managed to pry the nut off, and get the old mast out. The nylon cord is broken about 8 or so inches from the bottom. Hence, this would require either taking out and disassembling the motor, or replacing the motor altogether.

At this point, this is going to require more time than this amateur DIY guy has time for. I hate to say it but I'm going to have to bite the bullet and get some professional help. It's going to cost a fortune, but I just don't have the time to deal with this anymore.

Thanks to all here for their helpfulness though. If I had more time, I'm sure I could've done this myself with the helpful folks here and the excellent lexls tutorial, but I just don't have time for this. That, and it's getting downright dangerously cold out here, even in the relative warmth of the garage.

AzHotLS

iTrader: (1)

NOOOOOOOO!!!!! You can do it!!

As a matter of fact, I'm doing this job this weekend. My whip broke so I have to remove/disassemble the motor to take it out but I won't tell you that it's supposed to be about 70 degrees here tomorrow.

somnoboy

70 degrees! I'd give my left arm to be in your climate right now.

The mechanic installed it. Works perfectly. So my radio now works perfectly, and I'm a poor man.

I'm sure I could have done it had I watched someone do it before me. The lexls tutorial is very, very good, but to a total non-mechanic newbie (like me), it's still somewhat daunting. Please let us know how it goes.

AzHotLS

iTrader: (1)

I'm glad you got it working even if your wallet is a bit lighter.

I didn't get to mine, I was a little off on the temp, it was 84!!! yesterday. Too hot, so I'll wait till it cools off a bit.

deanshark

You SOB, ya gotta rub it in with that temp? It was in the 20s here. Brrrrrrr

gtoden1

Hate people like that. LOL

somnoboy

84. 84! 84$#@/%$#!

Lol...