Power Antenna

[samsungjay]

I have a 2002 firebird and my antenna mast snapped. Now it stays up 1/2 of the way (where the snap occured). I saw 2 different parts, 1 for the mast and one for the whole motor assy. I can still hear the motor run when i turn the car on so i know its not burnt out. The wire that retracts the mast is now inside and I dont know if i should just order the mast and try to string the wire through, or if the motor needs to be replaced. I also have nevered replaced the antenna and don't want to mess up anything. Has anyone done a replacement like this. Any tips or directions would be greatly appreciated.

[96firebird311]

Ehhh, don't think the stock antenna has a replacable mast? Can't rememeber. But when mine snapped I bought one from rksport.com It wasn't cheap, ($99) but DOES have a replacable mast and has been working flawlessly for probably about 3 years now. If the mast is removable, just remove that black plastic body part that holds it in place then twist the mast. It should just unscrew.

[nda0602v6]

If you are going to replace the mast (that is...if GM sells just the mast), you first need to remove the nylon cable (the string as you call it) inside the motor. On the outside of the fender, on top of the plastic piece where 96firebird311 is talking about, there should be a nut that you can remove. Remove the nut and have someone turn your stereo "ON" to activate the motor and it should push up the rest of the bottom portion of the broken mast along with the nylon cable.

Again, "if" you can buy a replacement mast, it's pretty easy to put back in. First turn the radio "on" which will activate the motor for a few seconds. Once the motor stops, feed the nylon cable from the new mast down inside till you feel it stop. While holding the new mast, have a friend turn the radio "off," this will activate the motor and it should start sucking the nylon cable in. If it doesn't grab right away, gently keep pushing down on the cable till it catches. With the mast all the way in, put the nut back on and you're done.