Retro Antenna PA-01 - User Manual

Welcome
Thank you for purchasing a RetroAntenna
®
power antenna. This antenna features fully automatic operation. Please note that this antenna
does not work with antenna systems requiring a switch.
Our antenna uses a standard end designed to fit most applications. Some factory radios for 1995 and newer Fords, 1988 and newer GMs and
some imports use a unique connector at the the radio, and an adapter may be needed. Contact a local car audio shop for the correct
adapter part if one is needed.
1. Removing the Old Antenna
a) Disconnect the battery before you begin. Gain access to the underside of the fender area through the trunk, fender, splash panel, etc.
b) Remove and disassemble the old antenna and base. Retain the old base and mounting parts for your reference. In some cases you
can reuse them if you wish to keep the old look. Remove the mounting bracket, drain tube, electrical wires and antenna coaxial cable.
When removing electrical wires and the coaxial cable from the antenna, follow the wire’s path to the closest connector and
disconnect. DO NOT CUT THE COAXIAL CABLE
c) Remove the old antenna from below the fender.
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
PA-01
PA-03

Summary

Welcome and Model Overview

Removing the Old Antenna

Instructions for safely disconnecting and removing the existing antenna system from the vehicle.

Installing the New Antenna

Mounting and Securing the Antenna

Details on selecting the correct mounting base, installing the antenna through the fender, and securing the motor assembly.

Routing Wires and Drain Tube

Guidance on routing electrical wiring, coaxial cable, and the drain tube to the car's interior and firewall.

Electrical Wiring Connections

Power Antenna and Coaxial Cable

Connecting the antenna's blue wire to the radio's power antenna wire and the coaxial cable to the radio.

Power Source Connection

Connecting the antenna's red power wire to a constant +12 volt location, such as the fuse block or battery.

Important Notes and Maintenance

Operation and Cleaning

Guidelines for optimal operation, periodic mast cleaning, and avoiding damage to the motor.

Troubleshooting and Precautions

Information on handling cold temperatures, car washes, user-serviceable parts, and drain tube inspection.

Warranty Information

Warranty Terms and Claims

Details on the one-year warranty, repair or replacement options, and procedures for handling warranty issues.

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Usage Features
3. Installation
4. Operation
5. Maintenance Features
6. Regular Cleaning
7. Drain Tube Inspection
8. General Care

The RetroAntenna power antenna is a fully automatic antenna designed for vehicle use. It is important to note that this antenna is not compatible with antenna systems that require a switch for operation.

Function Description:

The RetroAntenna is designed to receive radio signals and features a mast that extends and retracts automatically. This automatic operation is controlled by the vehicle's radio, specifically through a power antenna wire (typically blue) from the radio. The antenna's motor assembly is responsible for the mast's movement, and it is protected by a special clutch mechanism to prevent damage, particularly in situations where the mast might be obstructed, such as by ice. The antenna also includes a coaxial cable for transmitting the received signals to the radio. A drain tube is integrated into the design to manage water runoff from the motor assembly, routing it away from the vehicle's interior.

Usage Features:

Installation:

1. Preparation: Before beginning installation, disconnect the vehicle's battery. Access the underside of the fender area, typically through the trunk, fender, or splash panel.
2. Removal of Old Antenna: Carefully remove and disassemble the existing antenna and its base. It is recommended to retain the old base and mounting parts for reference, as they might be reused if a similar aesthetic is desired. Disconnect the mounting bracket, drain tube, electrical wires, and the antenna coaxial cable. Trace the path of the electrical wires and coaxial cable to their closest connectors and disconnect them. Crucially, do not cut the coaxial cable. Remove the old antenna from below the fender.
3. Clearance Check: Ensure that the underside of the fender has sufficient clearance for the new antenna. The PA-01 model requires approximately 11.5 inches (29 cm) of clearance, while the PA-03 model requires about 8.5 inches (22 cm).
4. Mounting Base Selection: The antenna comes with six mounting bases: five fixed-angle bases and one adjustable base pre-installed. Remove the pre-installed base and select the appropriate base that matches the angle of your fender. Alternatively, the original mounting base from the old antenna can be reused. The five fixed-angle bases require a 7/8 inch (22 mm) hole, while the adjustable base requires a 1 inch (25 mm) hole.
5. Hole Preparation: If an existing hole is not adequate, a 1/8 inch (3 mm) pilot hole should be drilled, then enlarged using a hole saw or drill bit to the size required by the chosen base. After drilling, remove any burrs, paint, or dirt from the underside of the hole.
6. Antenna Installation: Install the new antenna from the underside of the fender. Assemble the base above the fender, ensuring the retainer rests evenly on the underside of the fender to prevent damage to the vehicle or antenna. Align the mast vertically by slightly tightening the antenna mounting nut while adjusting the mast.
7. Securing the Motor Assembly: Secure the bottom of the motor assembly using the provided metal strap. The strap has holes to accommodate various mounting positions, and it may need to be bent to fit. Ensure the black ground wire is properly secured to a clean chassis point for correct operation; improper grounding will prevent the antenna from functioning.
8. Final Tightening: Once the motor assembly is secured, the mast is at the desired angle, and the retainer rests evenly on the fender, firmly tighten the mounting nut to secure the antenna assembly. Avoid over-tightening the nut, as this can strip or break the mounting threads or damage the contact spring, leading to improper antenna operation.
9. Drain Tube Attachment: Attach the drain tube to the bottom of the motor assembly and route it to the outside of the car, being careful to avoid kinking or bending the tube.
10. Wiring and Coaxial Cable Routing: Route the electrical wiring and coaxial cable into the vehicle's interior, towards the dash area, to connect to the radio. A 5/8 inch (16 mm) hole may be needed to route the wires through the firewall. Avoid routing cables through the engine compartment or near hot/high-current parts, as antenna cables can pick up interference from these sources.
11. Electrical Connections:
    • Power Antenna Wire: For radios with a dedicated power antenna wire (usually blue), connect the blue wire from the antenna to this wire from the radio.
    • Coaxial Cable: Connect the coaxial cable from the antenna to the radio.
    • Red Power Wire: Connect the red power wire from the antenna to a constant +12 volt source, such as the fuse block, battery, or another suitable location.
    • Ground Wire: Ensure the black ground wire is securely connected to a clean chassis ground point.
12. Battery Reconnection: After all connections are made, reconnect the vehicle's battery.

Operation:

The antenna operates automatically with the vehicle's radio. When the radio is turned on, the mast will extend, and when the radio is turned off, it will retract. In extremely cold temperatures or severe icing conditions, the antenna might temporarily fail to extend or retract. If this occurs, cycling the radio on and off three or four times can help free the mast. The internal clutch protects the motor from damage in such situations.

Maintenance Features:

Regular Cleaning:

For optimal operation and reception, the antenna mast should be periodically cleaned with a damp cloth. Always clean the mast when it is fully extended. Do not oil or grease the antenna or motor assembly, as this can damage the motor.

Drain Tube Inspection:

Periodically inspect the drain tube for any blockages or kinks to ensure proper water drainage.

General Care:

• Always remember to retract the antenna when entering a car wash or areas with low clearance to prevent damage.
• The motor assembly contains no user-serviceable parts and should never be taken apart. Disassembly, the use of unauthorized accessories, or incorrect wiring will void the product's warranty.

Retro Antenna PA-01 Specifications

General

Weight	1.5 lbs
Impedance	75 Ohms
Gain	3dB
Material	Aluminum
Frequency Range	88-108 MHz
Reception Range	Up to 50 miles
Connector Type	F-connector