I have a 1988 Maxima and the antenna motor just makes a noise when the radio is shut on and off. The antenna stays in the upright position. I have been told that it is possible to replace just the whip. Is there an easy way to remove the old one?

 

I don't know, but if you know where I can get just the whip, let me know. I'm having problems finding one. mine is broken.

as for removing it, a repair manual should cover it....

 

I bought one for my '91 at the dealer. I would guess you can still get them for the 2nd gens. too.

It was fairly easy to replace. You take the nut off at the base of the antenna. Then you can pull the whole mast out of the housing. Most likely, there will be a good portion of the old mast still inside the housing. You will have to remove the cover from the side of the motor assembly to remove the remaining piece(s). There is also a brass sleeve that had to be transfered from the old mast to the new one. It's what keeps the whole thing located vertically when you tighten the nut back up.

To instal, turn your radio on, insert the end of the new mast down into the tube and push till you feel it hit the gear. I helps to have someone help you with the next step. Turn your radio off and gently feed the mast into the motor. It may take a couple of tries to get the gear to grab the mast teeth immediately. If it doesn't, the mast won't retract all the way. Just turn the radio back on, remove the mast and try again. Then replace and tighten the nut.