breaux124

iTrader: (1)

It's been really cold the past few weeks, but just recently I've started having problems with my power antenna. When the radio is on, it won't fully extend out and when I turn it off, it won't fully go back in.
Does anyone know what kind of lubricant to use? Is WD-40 alright, or should I use a silicon based grease? Who's had experience with this?

Albertt

WD-40 is a good cleaner, but a bad lubricant for this application. It is too thin (low viscosity) and washes off when driving in the rain. Also, as the antenna mast lowers, the pieces sliding against each other squeeze out the lubricant. Lithium grease is also too thin. I've used molybdenum grease with much success...despite my antenna being slightly bent in a few places. Look for a grease that is extremely slimy and sticky...but also retains it's lubricity as it ages.

Clean with the WD-40; a rag with the WD-40 sprayed on and wipe. THen smear this grease on the mast at the adjointing points. Raise and lower it a few times by turning the radio on and off and re-smear. Finally, lower the antenna and clean off any extra grease that gets squeezed out.

breaux124

iTrader: (1)

Thanks for the help.
Is molybdenum grease available in a normal autoparts or hardware store? Does it go by any other names?

Albertt

It IS hard to find...I had to get some from where I work. But, if you go to a hardware store, look for alternatives. Anything that is thick and is used for sliding bearing applications is good. The grease/lube that engine builders use on cam bearings and main bearings could be a good alternative.