Topic: radio antenna


sgking    -- 01-02-2010 @ 10:04 AM
  I am replacing the top insert in a '35 Coupe and would like to put the radio antenna in before replacing the material . Does anyone know what type of cable was originally used or is there a better option now ? What kind of reception should one expect ? Is the later antenna under the running board any better ?
Thankyou Stew.


supereal    -- 01-02-2010 @ 10:43 AM
  If you use the "chicken wire" under the top, you have to be careful that the wire isn't grounded to the body, only attached to the wood slats. Neither this method, nor the running board configuration, are ideal. A magnetic base CB whip antenna works well, and can be attached and removed without body modification. The original cable used was a shielded coaxial type with a copper braid around a center conductor. Any modern coax, such as RG59 or RG6 can be used. You need the bayonet connector for the radio to be soldered on, and connect the center conductor to the antenna, while grounding the coax shield at the antenna end to the body. Almost all original radios are noisy, so we recommend having them updated with new "insides".


sgking    -- 01-02-2010 @ 11:32 AM
  Dear Supereal ,
Thanks very much for your reply . I shall give it a try and still have the option of using a magnetic antenna if it is too noisy .
Thanks Stew.


ford38v8    -- 01-02-2010 @ 11:33 AM
  With regard to the magnetic base whip antennas, be forewarned that no matter how much you pad the base, the normal vibration of the car on the road will cause the base to act like an electric polishing machine. Upon removal, you will see the footprint of the magnetic base which must then be polish/blended with the surrounding paint. Not a fun job.

Alan


trjford8    -- 01-03-2010 @ 8:53 AM
  Here's a way to avoid paint damage with a whip antenna. I run a CB all the time and here's what I have done.I make a bracket that clamps around the rear bumper iron. I use a rubber cushion on each side of the clamp which keeps it from scratching the paint and also allows the clamp to be cinched down tight. I then find an old radiator cap at a swap meet and drill out the rivet in the center and replace it with a bolt.I then bolt it to my bracket.The magnetic antenna then sits on the radiator cap and stays put without the worry of paint damage. Bracket can be taken off at any time for shows or to move to another car.

This message was edited by trjford8 on 1-3-10 @ 9:32 AM


wmsteed    -- 01-03-2010 @ 9:48 AM
  Stew,.... If you scroll back about 4 pages you will find postings to the topic... '36 antenna installation 12-13. This topic contains many comments about the pro/cons of the various antenna's used on the '35-36 Fords.

Bill
36 5 win delx cpe


supereal    -- 01-03-2010 @ 10:33 AM
  I've used the magnetic base antennas for years with no paint damage. I cemented a layer of felt to the underside of the base to prevent scouring. I've also seen antenna mounts secured to bumper irons with a clamp.


watwasithinking    -- 01-04-2010 @ 6:24 PM
  Stew, I am also resolving the chicken wire antenna connection problem on a '36 coupe. The antenna lead cable that is provided in the aftermarket spare tire antenna(about $35)set up is very similiar to the cable your needing...although it is about twice as long as the one that runs up to the chicken wire in the roof. It has a bayonet coupling on one end and the ground shield/lead wire separated on the other end. By the way...If you'd like to see a very nice Philco running board reproduction go to this website, http://yesterdaysradio.com/pdfs/catalog.pdf This site caters to the Packard owners. This is a very nice reproduction but very pricey...$510.. (looking is free). I believe our fellow V-8 Ford suppliers' running board antennas sell for about $100 and the overall reception is probably about the same...


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