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Horrible Radio Reception

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Old 10-18-2008, 09:36 AM
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Horrible Radio Reception

Hey all,

We have a 2000 Ex. When we bought it it came with an small aftermarket radio antennae. We get horrible reception with it. Also, if I turn off the a/c it gets a little better.
I was looking to at least replace the antennae, anyone out there ever done this? Anyone find an antennae that works well, or any tricks for getting better reception?
We listen to AM most of the time and that is almost impossible in the Ex.

Thanks,
Shawn
 
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Old 10-18-2008, 02:16 PM
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AM does not use the 32" antenna. AM antenna's are most typically internal and extremely cheaply made. Since they are internal there isn't much you can bolt on to get better reception, you will need to open the radio and put a better receiver in the antenna's place.

For better FM, get a full 1/4 wave (32" or so) antenna.
 
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Old 10-18-2008, 04:46 PM
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I actually need a new antenna as well.

Where to buy the 32" antenna you've suggested? Anyone try putting in a retractable antenna?
 
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Old 10-18-2008, 07:38 PM
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I rather like the stock antenna, but I have no idea on the gain vs a bare aluminum mast. Metra has a line of antennas. http://www.metraonline.com/catalogs/...talog_2007.pdf

44pw22B Remember the b at the end if you want black is the power antenna I've used in other vehicles. Replacement mast start on page 190, then universals on 191. Once you have a part number there will be plenty of people to buy them from.
 
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Old 10-18-2008, 11:40 PM
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Check antenna, and make sure the antenna and radio are grounded well.
 
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Old 10-19-2008, 08:33 AM
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Just a question: Does the vehicle have an aftermarket wireless DVD player?
 
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Old 10-19-2008, 11:37 AM
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Thanks for the replies. It has a DVD but it is not wireless.
I don't remember how it was before, but I just had the head unit replaced because nothing would illuminate when we first got it. Please don't tell me I have to do it again, that thing isn't cheap.

Cheers
 
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Old 10-19-2008, 11:51 AM
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I have an aftermarket DVD player. Can play either through headphones or over the radio.

So I'm understanding now...

I took a trip and had terrible reception. The DVD player had a switch that broadcast a signal over FM, I finally figured out (I bought the vehicle used). Anyway, I flipped the little switch, and, like magic, all the AM and FM stations appeared. I suppose this allows everyone to listen to the movie while those in the back can watch and listen.

My switch was just a small toggle that was installed to the left of the steering column below the fuse box cover. Certainly, it could have been anywhere.

I don't know if it's helpful, but maybe it will point you toward a different direction in what the actual cause might be.
 
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