trhs75

I have replaced a few antenna masts and motor assemblies over the years, and I could use wisdom from all of you before I tackle the current problem. When the radio is turned on and the mast extends, it extends all the way but the motor keeps running and makes a ratcheting noise. This continues until I turn the radio off again, when the antenna retracts and the motor stops. Obviously the motor runs, but does it sound like a problem within the motor unit, or does it sound like something simply replacing the mast and nylon cable will solve? Thanks for reading my post!

Nad1370

Sounds like you have a broken nylon cable inside.
Need to open up the motor to retrieve it and replace it with a new mast.

salimshah

Remember to measure the mast and the nylon string gear against the one you pull out. If the old one is shorter, then there is a piece left inside the motor assembly.

Salim

trhs75

Good advice from both of you -- thanks!!

trhs75

Update:

I bought a replacement antenna from antennasource.com for about $21 shipped. It appeared identical to the stock antenna. I removed the stock antenna and compared cable lengths. They were the same, so I was relieved not to have to remove the whole assembly and take the motor apart to retrieve a broken piece. I installed the new mast antenna/cable assembly (what Lexus calls "rod & pipe") using a broom handle to turn the radio on and off. The noise is gone and everything works perfectly. I'm guessing the teeth on the original antenna's cable were imperceptibly worn, affecting the operation. I figured for $21, I wouldn't lose much money if it didn't work.