Power antenna replacement

[mvmcali]

Can i replace the power telescoping antenna (2001 Qx4) with a modern stubby type?

several years ago , the plastic mast broke and it was a huge problem to take off the front wheel, etc. now i was hoping i could use a modern replacement like this... but can I?

(https://www.amazon.com/Polished-Carbon- ... ZXD9S59RWY)

[VStar650CL]

There's nothing special about the antenna portion of the telescoping unit, so there shouldn't be any problems with a generic replacement. If it fits in the hole it should work fine.

[mvmcali]

thanks... being a glutten for punishment , i ordered another telescoping antenna . i will have to take the front wheel off again!

[VStar650CL]

thanks... being a glutten for punishment , i ordered another telescoping antenna . i will have to take the front wheel off again!

Hmmmm.... you know, gluttony is one of the seven deadlies....

[MisterH]

thanks... being a glutten for punishment , i ordered another telescoping antenna . i will have to take the front wheel off again!

When I replaced mine I just cranked the steering wheel all the way to the right and I had plenty of room to work.

[mvmcali]

I just replaced mine for the 2nd time! first one lasted till 80k miles and 12 years , the 2nd (probably a crappy chinese made part from amazon , lasted 60k miles and another 8 years.

its not really that hard to do. after you remove your wheel, you just have to pop out those little clips and some bolts that hold the wheel well cover in place and then you have access to the unit

both times, the white plastic drive ribbon broke in the motor unit and i had to open it up. this time the2 of the screws were completely corroded and i had to drill them out.

funny thing is .. 8 years ago ...after i finished the job... to my shame and horror i had a large spring left over! i saved it all that time and now had a chance ot reunite it with the motor unit . haha... it seems to just take up a bit of tension when the motor starts and stops..i guess it wasnt that critical

[VStar650CL]

it seems to just take up a bit of tension when the motor starts and stops..i guess it wasnt that critical

That lack of preload on up-and-down is likely why your second unit failed prematurely compared to the original. What the spring really prevents is the plastic cable chattering and chafing when it begins to unwind. You're right it isn't critical, but it does have a definite purpose.