'96 SS power antenna
#1
'96 SS power antenna
Recently purchased a '96 SS coupe that is pretty much mint. But, it doesn't have a power antenna, which I would really like to have. Soooo, I found a NOS unit and now need some expertise as to how to make it function. It has red (which I assume is power), black (which is normally ground), and green (which I don't know what it does), wires going to the connector. Is there any way to make this work without running wires all the way to the dash/radio ? I know I need a 12v source initiated when I turn the key on, but other than that, I know VERY LITTLE about automotive electrical systems!!!!! Any help will be appreciated.
#2
There should be a connector for the power antenna just ahead of the spare tire. I think it has black, orange, and pink wires. You can test your antenna by connecting battery voltage to the antenna's red (orange?) and black wires, then put the green wire to battery positive and it should rise. Remove the green wire and it should drop. The green wire would go to the pink wire, red to orange, and black to black. Does you antenna have a 3-pin connector like the one in the photo?
Last edited by GaryDoug; 01-05-2018 at 09:23 PM.
#6
I don't believe the power antenna was available from the factory for the Camaro. Scott Settlemire didn't want the problems that came with them. People improvised and used the antenna from the TA. I can remember some talking about running power back to the antenna and putting a switch in the line to control it. Surely there is a video showing an installation like this?
I looked in the 1996 Service Manual and found a diagram showing the antenna wiring. It looks to be in with the coaxial cable. I've attached a pdf showing it. The manual is not really clear if the option was available.
I looked in the 1996 Service Manual and found a diagram showing the antenna wiring. It looks to be in with the coaxial cable. I've attached a pdf showing it. The manual is not really clear if the option was available.
Last edited by peterpar; 05-08-2017 at 09:39 PM.
#7
Well a few years ago, I disconnected the power to the antenna because I didn't use it much and wanted to keep it from getting damaged. Now I just manually raise it when needed and keep it at about 6" height all the time. It works like that for most stations in my area.
I think it is interesting that the diagram says "Chev shown, Pont similar"
I think it is interesting that the diagram says "Chev shown, Pont similar"
Last edited by GaryDoug; 05-08-2017 at 11:42 PM.
#8
The power antenna was available in '96, as RPO U75. It is shown in the GM Parts Direct diagram, along with the part number. My car has the "fixed antenna", RPO U73, and I looked at the diagram Peterpar provided and then looked at my antenna lead and, unfortunately, there is no 3-wire harness with it.
#9
I'm attaching an article that covers wiring a power antenna that I saved. You may find it helpful if you choose to install this option.
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