My power antenna will not extend. It makes a grinding/clicking noise whenever I turn the car on or off (I always have the radio on) for about 10 seconds.

I've searched all the threads pertaining to this, but still haven't really found the answer I'm looking for.

If the motor is running, it obviously works. I've read about a gear that could be stripped, but it doesn't sound like the gear is available for sale by itself.

So... Do I need the whole motor replacement? If so, does anyone have any advice on a non-OEM replacement?

Or, is it something else?

I appreciate any help!

 

The answers are there, you just don't think it pertains to you. My guess is that the antenna whip is broken inside the motor. An easy way to tell is remove the mast and see how long it is or if the teeth on it are worn. Hopefully you'll be lucky and just need to replace the mast. However, with the clicking sounds, it could be broken so you'll be removing the antenna assembly to get the broken part out.

You search should help you find instructions for removing the mast only and the whole assembly.

 

Yeah, the answers are there. As time goes on you'll get better at searching the forum. (which is a good thing) This tutorial will give ya the info you need; http://www.lexls.com/tutorials/audio/powerantenna.html It sounds like your mast is stripped or broken. (prey for stripped) If it's stripped you can get it out easy, if it's broke the whole antenna assembly needs to come out and taken apart. You can get a mast from Ebay, alot of members have. Some bought one from Pepboys for cheaper, but ya get what ya pay for, they break quick.

 

Huh. I pulled out the mast and there was nothing connecting it what-so-ever. I thought there would be a wire or belt or something.
Guess I have to pull the whole unit out and see what's up.

 

so the mast had all its teeth....?

 

So you're saying the cable wasn't connected? If so then yes, you need to take out the whole assembly. The directions are in the link I posted. When I said "It sounds like your mast is stripped or broken" I meant to say the "cable", not mast. Anyway, follow the tutorial and you'll be all set.

 

There was no cable attached. I disconnected the power to the antenna motor which stopped the horrible noise it was making. I haven't noticed any decrease in reception, so I guess I'm in no rush to get it repaired.
Thanks for the info.