J30 antenna grinding sound

[Chris Halkides]

Hello Everyone,

I have a 1997 J30t with about 120,000 miles. When I turn on my radio, the antenna extends, then for about 5-10 seconds, I hear a grinding noise, as if something is still turning. Then the noise ceases. I have been told that it could be the radio that is at fault, as opposed to the antenna, meaning that the radio could be sending the signal to the antenna to continue extending, even when it should stop. I am not sure how to proceed. Thanks.

[qship96]

It is not the radio- most likely, it is either a stripped cog wheel or stripped antenna tail in the antenna itself, or the antenna timer is faulty.

[Chris Halkides]

Is the antenna timer a part of the antenna? In other words, what should I replace?

[driverdriver]

Use a super penetrating lubricant (Liquid wrench, KrownT40 or Jig-a-loo provide the best results). When the mechanism gets dry (it was last lubricated whenever it was made) the mechanism grinds.

[SteveTheTech]

It is not the radio- most likely, it is either a stripped cog wheel or stripped antenna tail in the antenna itself, or the antenna timer is faulty.

Exactly what I was about to say.

I would pull it out and completely disassemble it.

If you do take it apart get some graphite grease and lube it up.