Antenna

Procedure for removing and replacing the radio antenna mast and/or base assembly on a 1972 Ford F-100.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Antenna mast × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Antenna base assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Antenna cable × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Antenna mounting gasket × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Verify antenna type (fixed mast or power antenna)
3. Locate antenna mounting position on fender
4. Gather all necessary tools and replacement parts

Procedure

1. 1

   Access the antenna mounting hardware from inside cab
   The standard factory antenna on the 1972 F-100 mounts on the right front fender. Access the antenna base mounting hardware from the underside of the fender, working through the engine compartment or right front wheel well area rather than through the cab interior. If equipped with a trim panel covering the antenna base access area, carefully remove it by pulling the retaining clips or removing the fasteners. You should be able to see or feel the antenna cable and mounting hardware from inside the cab. Verified detail (The procedure states antenna is on right front fender but directs technician to passenger side interior access. On a 1972 F-100, right front fender would be driver side (right from driver's perspective), not passenger side.): Open the driver's door and locate the inner fender/kick panel area below the dashboard on the right side.
2. 2

   Disconnect antenna cable from radio
   Reach behind the radio and locate the antenna cable connection at the rear of the radio chassis. Grasp the cable connector firmly and pull straight back to disconnect it from the radio antenna input jack. Note the routing of the cable for reinstallation.
3. 3

   Remove antenna mast
   From outside the vehicle, grasp the antenna mast firmly and rotate it counterclockwise to unscrew it from the base assembly. Continue turning until the mast is completely removed. If the mast is seized, apply penetrating oil and allow it to soak for 10-15 minutes before attempting removal again.
4. 4

   Remove antenna base mounting hardware from inside
   Working from under the fender (through the engine compartment or right front wheel well), locate the antenna base mounting nut on the underside of the fender. Use an adjustable wrench or 5/8" wrench to hold the base assembly while loosening the mounting nut by turning counterclockwise. Remove the mounting nut, lock washer, and any spacers, keeping them organized for reinstallation.
5. 5

   Remove antenna base assembly from fender
   From outside the vehicle, carefully pull the antenna base assembly up and out through the fender mounting hole. Guide the antenna cable through the fender opening from inside as you remove the base. Remove and inspect the rubber mounting gasket for damage or deterioration.
6. 6

   Remove antenna cable from vehicle (if replacing)
   If replacing the antenna cable, trace the cable routing from the fender area through the firewall or inner fender panel to the radio location. Release any cable clips or ties securing the cable along its route. Pull the cable through any grommets or openings and remove it completely from the vehicle. Note the exact routing path for the new cable installation.
7. 7

   Install new antenna cable (if applicable)
   If installing a new cable, feed it from the radio location through the original routing path to the antenna mounting hole in the fender. Ensure the cable passes through any grommets properly and is not pinched or kinked. Secure the cable with clips or ties along its route to prevent rattling or interference with moving components.
8. 8

   Install antenna base assembly
   Place a new rubber mounting gasket over the fender mounting hole. Feed the antenna cable connector up through the hole from inside. Insert the antenna base assembly into the mounting hole from outside, aligning the base studs or threads with the hole. Ensure the gasket is properly seated.
9. 9

   Secure antenna base from inside cab
   From inside the cab, thread the lock washer and mounting nut onto the antenna base. Hand-tighten the nut, then use the adjustable wrench to snug it firmly while holding the base from outside to prevent rotation. Tighten securely but do not overtighten, as this can crack the base or damage the fender. The base should be solid with no movement.
10. 10

    Install antenna mast
    From outside the vehicle, thread the antenna mast clockwise into the base assembly. Hand-tighten the mast until it is firmly seated. Do not use tools on the mast itself as this can damage it. The mast should be snug with no wobble.
11. 11

    Connect antenna cable to radio
    Reach behind the radio and push the antenna cable connector firmly into the antenna input jack on the rear of the radio until it clicks or seats fully. Ensure the connection is secure.
12. 12

    Reinstall interior trim panels
    Replace any interior trim panels or kick panels removed during the procedure. Ensure all retaining clips are properly engaged and any fasteners are securely tightened.

Reassembly

1. Verify antenna mast is vertical and properly tightened
2. Check that antenna cable is not pinched or kinked along routing path
3. Confirm all interior trim pieces are properly secured

Verification

• Turn on the radio and tune to a known strong station to verify antenna reception
• Test reception on both AM and FM bands to ensure proper signal
• Visually inspect antenna mast for proper alignment and security
• Check for any rattles or loose components by gently pulling on the antenna mast
• Verify no water leaks around antenna base after car wash or rain

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