Cleaning the electric aerial

[Mad_Minty]

What do you do when the aerial gets gunked-up and won't extend fully? I've tried the obvious from a moist paper towel to using a degreasing agent but after a couple of weeks the unit starts jamming-up again. Is this just a sign that, after 7 years, it's time for a replacement - or is there a secret chemical that you can point me to?

Cheers,

Martin

 

[imadoofus]

I use bog roll and WD40. I find that the more I use it, the less gunked up it gets.

Needs doing every six weeks or so, I'd say.

 

[BTB 500]

Methylated spirits is good.

Any kind of lubricant will cause grit/dust to stick to the mast while its up.

 

[BTB 500]

PS a new mast is cheap (under £20 from the local main dealer last time I got one for my R129) and an easy 5 min DIY to fit. So after 7 years why not treat your car to a new one!

 

[verytalldave]

Several generous applications of WD40 over a period of a few weeks as has been said is usually the cure. Allow the liquid to seep down into the workings and it should be fine.

 

[AANDYY]

I understand that WD40 dries out.

 

[Mad_Minty]

Thanks everyone for the rapid replies!

The car is due for a service in a couple of months so I think I will dabble with the more frequent application of WD40 or Meths and then if I'm not satisfied with the result I will 'treat' her to a new masthead.

Cheers,

Martin

 

[Smiley]

Seven years!! I get through one every two years or so either because it starts to seize up or it gets bent on a low hanging branch or some one knocks it or......
youve done well, just spend £20 and get a new one; 5 mins to replace all you need is a 13mm open ended spanner

 

[verytalldave]

I understand that WD40 dries out.

True, but it leaves behind a "slippery" residue that continues to lubricate for some time.

 

[mercboiuk]

I'm another user of WD40 for my electric aerial. It's worked a treat for me, until the aerial gets more road grime on it But then it just gives me an excuse for a bit more cleaning.....

Darren

 

[Roger Jones]

MB do their own cleaning sachets for the mast. Unlike WD40, they have presumably been formulated correctly for the purpose, with the right mixture and balance of cleaning and lubrication properties.

 

[kenhsilver]

I ended up changing the mast it was quite worn. I bought one off Ebay from car-masts-uk Email: [email protected]. The new mast came with a satchet of cleaner. In a couple of days of changing the mast it stopped working. One of the gear wheels had sheared a part. Found that the company that I bought the mast from also sold repair and replacement kits. Antenna now working fine. I would recommend talking to this company as they are most helpful. Avoid buying replacement masts from the US as I did get caught.

 

[BTB 500]

As mentioned, a genuine mast from a dealer is cheap enough IMO.

The first one they fitted for me FOC, the next one I did myself (once I realised how easy it was).