Top-of-the-roof Satellite Radio Installation
08-25-08, 01:04 PM
#1
Driver
Thread Starter
Top-of-the-roof Satellite Radio Installation
I recently permanently installed my XM satellite radio, after several years of going with a temporary hook-up. This is probably not for everybody, but it should be helpful for those so-inclined. This is a photo of the finished XM/Sirius antenna installation.
08-25-08, 01:09 PM
#2
Driver
Thread Starter
This is the antenna I used. It says Sirius, but works just as well with XM. I got a great deal on eBay from somebody who apparently works at the factory. It only comes in white. I don't know if painting it will significantly effect reception. I guess it might depend on the amound of metal in the paint.
08-25-08, 01:24 PM
#3
Driver
Thread Starter
Access from the interior is through the domelight opening. I drilled the hole a few inches to the rear of the domelight opening. I drilled a smaller hole first and then enlarged the hole to 9/16" diameter with a nibbling tool. (Being an amateur radio operator, I've been cutting holes in my cars for antennas for over 40 years). You want the hole far enough back, but not too far back that you can't reach it with your fingers.
It is easiest to have the person in the interior line up the spacer, lockwasher, and nut; and have the person on the exterior screw in the antenna. There is a wide rubber seal on the bottom of the antenna. RTV or silicone sealant is used only for looks and maybe a backup.
It is easiest to have the person in the interior line up the spacer, lockwasher, and nut; and have the person on the exterior screw in the antenna. There is a wide rubber seal on the bottom of the antenna. RTV or silicone sealant is used only for looks and maybe a backup.
08-25-08, 01:25 PM
#4
Driver
Thread Starter
I discovered the hard way that the threads on the antenna aren't cut deep enough and I needed this 1/8" spacer. Underneath, it is spacer, lockwasher (provided), and nut (provided).
08-25-08, 01:29 PM
#5
Driver
Thread Starter
In fishing the antenna cable, the first spot is the headliner edge by the passenger door hand-pull. Once the hand-pull is removed, the headliner is slipped out of the trim and a good access spot is obtained for fishing the cable.
08-25-08, 01:34 PM
#6
Driver
Thread Starter
The next spot is the trim on the door pillar. This pops off from the top and easy access is obtained all the way down to the right kick panel by the glove box. Note the fit around the little window when putting things back together. It does fit back, but only if you get the trim around this little window right.
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