Power Antenna Motor

Remove and replace the power antenna motor assembly on a 1966 Chevrolet Corvette, including disconnecting electrical connections and removing the mounting hardware.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Power antenna motor assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification or AC Delco replacement
• Antenna mast (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
2. Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent electrical shorts.
3. Allow the engine to cool completely if recently operated.
4. Locate the power antenna motor assembly, typically mounted on the right front fender behind the wheel well.

Procedure

1. 1

   Access the antenna motor location
   On the 1966 Corvette, the power antenna is mounted at the right rear quarter panel and the motor assembly is accessed from inside the right rear wheel well area or from behind the interior trim panel in the rear compartment. The motor assembly is secured to the inner panel with a bracket.
2. 2

   Disconnect the antenna lead wire
   Locate the coaxial antenna cable connected to the base of the antenna motor. Unscrew the coaxial connector by turning counterclockwise by hand. If tight, use needle-nose pliers to grip the connector collar gently while turning. Set the cable aside where it will not be damaged.
3. 3

   Disconnect the power wire
   Locate the power wire harness connector leading to the antenna motor. This is typically a single or dual-wire connector with a spade or bullet-style terminal. Pull the connector apart by hand or use needle-nose pliers if necessary. Note the wire color and position for reinstallation.
4. 4

   Disconnect the ground wire
   Locate the ground wire attached to the antenna motor housing or mounting bracket. Remove the ground wire fastener using a 7/16" wrench. Set the ground wire aside and note its routing.
5. 5

   Remove the antenna mast
   From the exterior of the vehicle, unscrew the antenna mast by turning it counterclockwise by hand. Continue unscrewing until the mast is completely removed from the motor housing. If the mast is stuck, apply penetrating oil and allow it to soak before attempting removal again.
6. 6

   Remove the upper mounting hardware
   Remove the upper mounting nut that secures the antenna motor assembly to the fender. This nut is typically 1/2" and is located at the top of the antenna motor housing where it passes through the fender. Use a 1/2" wrench or socket to remove the nut.
7. 7

   Remove the lower mounting bracket bolts
   Locate the mounting bracket bolts that secure the antenna motor assembly to the inner fender panel. Remove the 2 bolts using a 7/16" socket and extension. Support the motor assembly with one hand while removing the final bolt to prevent it from falling.
8. 8

   Remove the antenna motor assembly
   Carefully lower and remove the antenna motor assembly from the fender area. The assembly may need to be rotated or angled slightly to clear the fender opening. Inspect the mounting grommet and replace if cracked or deteriorated.
9. 9

   Inspect and clean the mounting area
   Inspect the fender mounting hole and bracket area for rust or damage. Clean the mounting surfaces with a wire brush. If rust is present, treat with rust converter or primer. Ensure the mounting grommet area is clean and free of debris.
10. 10

    Install the new antenna motor assembly
    Position the new antenna motor assembly into the fender opening from below. Align the motor shaft with the fender hole and ensure the mounting bracket aligns with the bolt holes on the inner fender panel. Thread the upper mounting nut onto the motor shaft by hand to hold the assembly in position.
11. 11

    Install the lower mounting bracket bolts
    Install the 2 mounting bracket bolts using a 7/16" socket. Tighten the bolts snugly to secure the bracket to the inner fender panel, but do not fully torque until all hardware is installed.
12. 12

    Tighten the upper mounting nut
    Using a 1/2" wrench, tighten the upper mounting nut on the antenna motor shaft. Tighten firmly to secure the motor to the fender, ensuring the mounting grommet is properly compressed. Once tight, go back and fully tighten the lower mounting bracket bolts.
13. 13

    Reconnect the ground wire
    Reconnect the ground wire to the antenna motor housing or mounting bracket. Install the ground wire fastener and tighten using a 7/16" wrench. Ensure a clean metal-to-metal connection for proper grounding.
14. 14

    Reconnect the power wire
    Reconnect the power wire harness connector to the antenna motor. Ensure the connection is secure and properly seated. Verify that the wire routing matches the original configuration and does not interfere with moving parts.
15. 15

    Reconnect the antenna lead wire
    Thread the coaxial antenna cable connector onto the base of the antenna motor by turning clockwise. Tighten by hand until snug. Do not overtighten, as this can damage the connector threads.
16. 16

    Install the antenna mast
    Thread the antenna mast onto the motor shaft by turning clockwise. Tighten by hand until the mast is fully seated. The mast should extend when the antenna is activated (via the dash antenna switch or radio control as equipped) if the motor is functioning correctly.

Reassembly

1. Reconnect the negative battery cable.
2. Verify that all electrical connections are secure and properly routed.
3. Ensure no tools or parts are left in the wheel well area.

Verification

• Turn the ignition to the accessory position and turn on the radio. The antenna should extend automatically.
• Turn off the radio. The antenna should retract automatically.
• Check for smooth operation without binding or unusual noise.
• Verify the radio reception is clear and strong, indicating proper antenna and cable connection.
• Inspect the installation area for any loose hardware or improperly routed wires.

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