Antenna Mast Replacement
Pole Position
Joined: May 2016
Posts: 3,161
Likes: 669
From: AZ
I dont see the problem. Down here in South Texas we just get a reasonably straight piece of coat hangar wire and stuff one end in where the antenna is "broke off". Sometimes, just for decoration we leave the "hook" end on the top and tie a piece of the old ladies underwear on so we can see it across the WallMart parking lot.....
HA HA
2nd gear
Joined: Jun 2022
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
From: CA
Ebay sells a replacement for the SC 430 antenna that works great. Replacement is easy -- it takes about 5 minutes when you follow the online instructions. I just replaced my bent antenna today following the instructions. Nothing to it -- do it yourself.
Pole Position
Joined: Jan 2020
Posts: 2,738
Likes: 544
From: CA
You're replacing the mast only, correct? Is the eBay seller a Lexus or Toyota dealer, or is the one you bought aftermarket?
2nd gear
Joined: Jun 2022
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
From: CA
Yes, mast only. My motor works fine. I bent the antenna by forgetting to turn off my radio before entering the car wash. The replacement was probably a Chinese knock-off but it looks just like the original equipment it replaced. The motor grabbed the nylon track right away and the mast descended all the way on the first try. I know some posters have said you need to buy the mast from Lexus (about $60) but I disagree. My reception with the new cheaper mast is no different. EBay sells the replacement now for about $17, shipping included.
Instructor
Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 1,102
Likes: 99
From: W
Mine has had grinding sounds when it goes up or down, It still fully extends though, I just followed the DIY to unplug the motor so it stays down all the time. The radio reception is affected but I don't really listen to the radio anyways.
CL Community Team
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 12,398
Likes: 455
From: GA
Try this, good luck I have been happy with it and it looks good too.
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/sc4...nna-is-in.html
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/sc4...nna-is-in.html
Rookie
Joined: Mar 2020
Posts: 36
Likes: 13
From: KY
I used a converter kit and the install took about 2 minutes including reading the instructions. Go to this page and look for "Power Antenna Converter Kit": http://www.theantennasource.com/LEXU...2002-2010.html
I'm very happy with the reception. It also looks good and I don't have to worry about car washes.
One note: I did this as part of replacing my entire audio system, so I did not have to worry about the mast power motor. If you don't clip the power motor, you'll hear it run for about 30 seconds every time you power up the radio. You can clip it behind the radio or pull out the right carpet in the trunk to pull/clip it at the motor.
If you want to see my install, here's the thread:
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/sc4...placement.html
I'm very happy with the reception. It also looks good and I don't have to worry about car washes.
One note: I did this as part of replacing my entire audio system, so I did not have to worry about the mast power motor. If you don't clip the power motor, you'll hear it run for about 30 seconds every time you power up the radio. You can clip it behind the radio or pull out the right carpet in the trunk to pull/clip it at the motor.
If you want to see my install, here's the thread:
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/sc4...placement.html
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Rookie
Joined: Mar 2020
Posts: 36
Likes: 13
From: KY
Then, to remove the silver antenna nut, you just put something like a flat head screwdriver in the slot and tap counter clockwise lightly with a hammer . I used something plastic to keep from scratching the chrome nut.
Once the nut is removed, you put in the converter base, put the nut back on, and screw in the new antenna.
I hope that helps.
Rookie
Joined: Mar 2020
Posts: 36
Likes: 13
From: KY
You can buy a specialty tool to remove the mast nut, which would lower your risk, but really it is not necessary. Just tap carefully and lightly so you don’t slip off it. I had no problems.
Driver School Candidate
Joined: Feb 2023
Posts: 22
Likes: 0
From: MO
So i tried this today with the black flexy antenna that was recommended. I couldnt get the nut back on, so i put it over the antenna and then installed it. THere is a 2mm space under the widest part of the black part, like it isnt seated all the way in. will water leak in? I can screw the antenna fully out, even with the nut in. What did i do wrong? This was supposed to be simple and im frustrated, so im hoping someone could kindly help me.
Rookie
Joined: Mar 2020
Posts: 36
Likes: 13
From: KY
Driver School Candidate
Joined: Feb 2023
Posts: 22
Likes: 0
From: MO
Thanks Matt. I took out a silver colored lug, but didnt see any seals or grommet. i then pulled out the antenna using the process by lexus with the acc-lock position. Then i put in 4-5 inch metal part, and the antenna, and screwed in the nut.