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2003 convertible: I noticed that recently my antennae isn't fully retracting. I did dry wipe it off to clean it, but no change. Is there an adjustment somewhere, or is it time to look for a replacement unit?
Thanks, Gary
It's probably the nylon "tail" or whatever it's called. It's a strip of nylon or plastic that is attached to the upper section of the mast. When the motor runs it turns a gear that either pushes it up or pulls it down to retract the antenna.. These will wear out and break. Most of the time you will have to take the motor apart to get the broken piece out. It's a fairly simple job. Just have to pull out the tail light to get the motor out.
When mine would not retract, the teeth on the nylon cable on the mast were worn out. Very common problem. It took about five minutes to change it. Manual does not recommend lubricating the mast. It attracts dirt and grit that will eventually bind it up. I have not had a problem since I changed my mast 5 years ago for ten bucks. I wipe it down when I clean my car. Before you try anything. Remove the nut on the mast and clean any crud that has built up inside it.
When you put the new one in, make sure the antenna is all the way extended and the power is on. Push the "tail" in as far as it will go. Then turn the power off and the gear should grab the tail and retract the antenna. Cycle it on and off a couple of times to make sure it works right. Then you're set!