Antenna

Remove and replace the antenna mast assembly on a 2005 Dodge Viper, including disconnection of the antenna cable and removal of the base mounting hardware.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Antenna mast assembly × 1 — Mopar 4897228AA or equivalent
• Antenna base gasket × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and ensure ignition is off
2. Open trunk for interior access to antenna mounting area
3. Verify radio is off to avoid potential static discharge through antenna cable

Procedure

1. 1

   Access exterior antenna base
   Locate the antenna mast on the right rear quarter panel near the rear of the vehicle. The antenna base is visible from the exterior with the mast extending upward. Inspect the base for the mounting configuration and cable entry point.
2. 2

   Remove antenna mast
   Grasp the antenna mast firmly near its base. Rotate the entire mast assembly counterclockwise to unthread it from the base. The mast should unscrew by hand. If resistance is encountered due to corrosion, apply penetrating oil and allow 10 minutes before retrying. Remove the mast completely and set aside.
3. 3

   Access interior trunk trim
   From inside the trunk, locate the right rear interior trim panel that corresponds to the exterior antenna location. The antenna mounting hardware is accessible behind this panel. Identify any trim fasteners securing the panel in this area. Check for push-pin retainers or clips along the panel edges.
4. 4

   Remove trunk trim panel section
   Carefully pull back or remove the trunk trim panel section to expose the antenna base mounting area. The 2005 Viper trunk trim uses a combination of clips and may have integrated fastener points. Work slowly to avoid breaking clips. Full removal may not be necessary—partial displacement to access the antenna mount is sufficient.
5. 5

   Disconnect antenna cable
   Locate the antenna cable connection at the base of the antenna assembly. The cable uses a push-on coaxial connector. Grasp the connector body (not the cable itself) and pull straight back to disconnect it from the antenna base terminal. Note the orientation for reinstallation.
6. 6

   Remove antenna base mounting hardware
   Using a 7mm socket and ratchet with short extension, remove the 3 mounting bolts securing the antenna base to the body panel from inside the trunk area. Support the antenna base from the exterior while removing the final bolt to prevent it from falling. Remove the antenna base assembly through the exterior opening.
7. 7

   Inspect mounting area
   Examine the body panel mounting surface for corrosion or damage. Clean the mounting surface with a wire brush if light corrosion is present. Inspect the antenna cable for fraying or damage along its accessible length. Check that the rubber base gasket came away with the old antenna; if it remains stuck to the body, remove it and clean any residue from the mounting surface.
8. 8

   Install new antenna base
   Position the new antenna base gasket on the body panel mounting surface, aligning it with the cable pass-through hole. Insert the new antenna base assembly from the exterior, threading the cable connector through the body opening. Align the mounting holes with the body panel studs or threaded inserts.
9. 9

   Secure antenna base mounting hardware
   From inside the trunk, hand-start all 3 mounting bolts through the antenna base flange into the body panel. Using a 7mm socket and ratchet, tighten the bolts in a star pattern to ensure even gasket compression. Tighten to snug specification—these are small fasteners threading into sheet metal or captive nuts, typically 8-10 Nm but do not over-torque.
10. 10

    Reconnect antenna cable
    Push the antenna cable connector firmly onto the antenna base terminal until it clicks or seats fully. Verify the connection is secure by gently tugging on the cable body—the connector should not pull free. Ensure the cable has sufficient slack and is not kinked or pinched.
11. 11

    Install antenna mast
    Thread the antenna mast clockwise into the antenna base by hand. Tighten until snug—the mast should be secure but do not apply excessive force. The mast should extend vertically and be stable without wobble.
12. 12

    Reinstall trunk trim
    Reposition the trunk trim panel section, aligning all clips and fasteners. Press firmly along clip locations to seat the panel fully. Verify the panel sits flush and does not interfere with trunk operation or other components.

Reassembly

1. Ensure antenna cable has adequate slack and is not routed over sharp edges or pinch points
2. Verify antenna mast is tightened hand-tight and extends vertically without lean
3. Check that trunk trim panel is fully seated and all clips are engaged

Verification

• Turn ignition to accessory mode and power on the radio
• Tune to several AM and FM stations to verify antenna reception quality
• Inspect antenna mast for stability—grasp and gently attempt to move; it should not wobble or rotate
• Check exterior for proper gasket sealing around the antenna base with no gaps or water intrusion potential
• Verify trunk trim panel is secure and does not rattle

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