S40: Electric antenna mast replacement

[Sparta]

Although the antenna motor runs, the antenna mast refuses to budge from the retracted position. I removed the unit intending to withdraw the mast and check the plastic cord. I opened the motor housing to release the plastic cord and tried to pull the mast out of the alloy tubular housing, but it was completely jammed in there. I managed, eventually to, get it out by twisting and pulling with a pair of pliers but in so doing the sleeve which sits at the base of the mast, picture attached, was pretty severely stressed. Before buying a new mast can someone please advise whether new masts are supplied with this sleeve, whether the sleeve is a critical component and whether the existing one will work?

[ilikewatch]

Originally Posted by Sparta

Although the antenna motor runs, the antenna mast refuses to budge from the retracted position. I removed the unit intending to withdraw the mast and check the plastic cord. I opened the motor housing to release the plastic cord and tried to pull the mast out of the alloy tubular housing, but it was completely jammed in there. I managed, eventually to, get it out by twisting and pulling with a pair of pliers but in so doing the sleeve which sits at the base of the mast, picture attached, was pretty severely stressed. Before buying a new mast can someone please advise whether new masts are supplied with this sleeve, whether the sleeve is a critical component and whether the existing one will work?

I've previously bought 2 aerial masts for my last 2 S40's from this eBay seller:

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/1918924056...%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

Both have come with the sleeve (as pictured in the listing) and I've been happy with both - you're probably aware that there are 2 different types of aerial, depending on the age of the car.

[Sparta]

Thank you ilikewatch, I'll give them a try.

[Andyjones]

Originally Posted by Sparta

Although the antenna motor runs, the antenna mast refuses to budge from the retracted position. I removed the unit intending to withdraw the mast and check the plastic cord. I opened the motor housing to release the plastic cord and tried to pull the mast out of the alloy tubular housing, but it was completely jammed in there. I managed, eventually to, get it out by twisting and pulling with a pair of pliers but in so doing the sleeve which sits at the base of the mast, picture attached, was pretty severely stressed. Before buying a new mast can someone please advise whether new masts are supplied with this sleeve, whether the sleeve is a critical component and whether the existing one will work?

Sparta, I seem to be having the same problem as you. There seems no clear way to get the old (broken) aerial out of the main housing. Is brute force and a pair of pliers the only solution. Does the new aerial (with sleeve) just slide into place afterwards? Any tips gratefully received.

[Andyjones]

Originally Posted by Andyjones

Sparta, I seem to be having the same problem as you. There seems no clear way to get the old (broken) aerial out of the main housing. Is brute force and a pair of pliers the only solution. Does the new aerial (with sleeve) just slide into place afterwards? Any tips gratefully received.

It's ok, I've answered my own question. It's brute force, a pair of pliers and a drill. Definitely not as easy as some guides lead you to believe.