Date:         Wed, 14 Oct 1998 22:12:45 -0700
Reply-To:     Todd Last <rubatoguy@WORLDNET.ATT.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@vanagon.com>
From:         Todd Last <rubatoguy@WORLDNET.ATT.NET>
Subject:      Re: Power Antenna
Comments: To: YauMan Chan <YauMan@CCHEM.BERKELEY.EDU>
Comments: cc: Vanagon@VANAGON.COM
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii

First I'd look at Joel Walker's write up at: http://ruralinstitute.umt.edu/vwbus/faq.htm#antenna

I did this and it was pretty easy. I got the antenna from Antenna world http://www.antennaworld.com

You need the electric antenna and 57-degree head kit.
I also got, from Radio Shack, and antenna extension cable, and metal nibblers.

Here is how I did it: (greatly simplified)

First take out the grill and left headlight. This will give you access to the antenna. Remove the rubber plug to gain access to the compartment above where the antenna lives. Remove the antenna cable from the
radio and attach and tape the extension cable. Now take out the OEM antenna and while pulling the cable through, it will thread the extension cable that you will attach to the electric antenna.

Now use the metal nibblers to open the hole so that the motor of the electric antenna will fit. Install the electric antenna and the 57 degree head kit (you may have to enlarge the hole for the antenna in the
body) Now wire everything up and Voila!

The antenna world folks can tell you what you need to order.
I think the total cost is around $90.

Also, with the electric antenna retracted, you will notice a .5 mph increase in top speed <g>

Todd
'88 Westy with electric antenna

YauMan Chan wrote:

> Hello,
>
> Anyone on the list installed a power antenna in their Vanagon?  I am looking at replacing my oem with a power unit but I understand that there is not enough room for a bulky motor in the front of the Van.
>
> Anyone try this ... if so what brand?
>
> Thanks in advance.
>
> Yau-Man Chan
> 87 GL