850 with a sever antenna issue, not answered before it seems

evaneimhin · Post by **evaneimhin** » 02 Nov 2005, 01:03

Ok, so my '96 850 came with a little issue. The motor for the antenna refuses to retract the mast, and to extend it more than 1/2 the way up. It grinds and makes nasty noises when trying. I don't feel like replacing the whole motor, but I can't for the LIFE of me get the mast out. I turn on the car, I ease the antenna to its full extent, but it just stops there. And I mean, WILL not budge; does not come out of the sleeve that sits within the side of the car. And yeah, I did remove the nut that keeps it attached to the body on the outside. Spent about an hour yesterday trying to pull this mast out of the motor... no dice.

If anyone has an explanation or a how to get around it hint, I'd be much appreciated. If NOT, I'll just have to replace it with a manual antennna. Wouldn't bug me that much, but in that case my second question:

What is that clear rubber hose/tube that's around the nipple on the very bottom of the antenna motor? It feeds off somewhere into the body of the car, but can I disconnect that and remove the motor/antenna array so I get the big steel rod that holds the mast out of the way for my new manual?

Thanks all.

-EVAN

danw · Post by **danw** » 02 Nov 2005, 03:42

I had a similar problem with a 760 aerial. I overcame this with some crc or wd40 lubricant and a good clean of the aerial stem, as it simply kept jamming, worth a shot! The tube at the base is a drainage tube for water that is taking in upon retraction

Jot · Post by **Jot** » 02 Nov 2005, 05:03

You need to have the radio "on" when trying to remove the antenna.Most likely the plastic strap has lost some teeth and is bent. You may need to stand in the trunk to get better leverage.

Guest · Post by **Guest** » 02 Nov 2005, 11:06

Jot wrote:You need to have the radio "on" when trying to remove the antenna.Most likely the plastic strap has lost some teeth and is bent. You may need to stand in the trunk to get better leverage.

So it's just a force problem? Hmm... Will try that. And if its just a water drain, then I'm not worried about removing it. ; )

Thanks, guys.

Post by **matthew1** » 03 Nov 2005, 12:10

This summer I had to soak my 850's mast for days with shots of WD40 to get it to fully extend. The middle section was sticking.

It's actually a regular service item.