BSnyder

This may be a stupid question (yeah, yeah.... no stupid questions, only stupid people that ask questions), but is there any reason to worry about the roof-mounted antenna when putting on a car cover? Does the antenna just flex under it?

Thanks in advance! <img src="graemlins/beerchug.gif" border="0" alt="[cheers]" />

dr bob

It only takes me a few seconds to unscrew the antenna and slide it in the well by the driver's seat by the parking brake. The antenna stays unbent, and the cover stays un-perforated.

Anybody tried fitting one of those stubby roof antennas, like the ones on late BMW's and some VW sedans? I live in the L.A. basin where antenna performance is not that critical. If it screws on the same base, I (we) could avoid the few seconds for cover install. Plus, the shorter antenna may be a little less unsightly while motoring.

My two sense...

Alan

Bob,
I got the lightweight silver Porsche logo cover. I considered for only an instant putting it on with the antenna in place... but as Dr Bob says it only takes a few sec's to unscrew it - don't risk it! (do you know how much $$ those things are?). The only other realistic option is to create a hole for the antenna - i did consider this but to avoid tears you'd need a grommet of some kind and while a soft plastic one that stopped around the top of the screw-on part would work I was a bit worried it would scratch up the antenna/screw base.. anyone tried this?

I also assumed that it would be a PITA to install the cover having to start with the antenna - and might still end up damaging it.

Anyone with good experiences on this?

Alan

dr bob

I've tried the grommet, and also a sewed-in hole that looks like a big button-hole, both were less than ideal. The frequency of use on the cover is inversely proportional to the aggravation and difficulty surrounding the fold/unfold operation, so having to unfold the cover part way, then try to find the grommet and slip it over the antenna, then pull the cover down to the corners without tearing the cover at the hole... too much aggravation!

The antenna comes off in seconds and the cover goes on and off.

I also confess to driving around with the antenna stowed safely in the cabin. I still get reasonable radio reception for the local L.A. stations, and just select the changer if it gets scratchy. I suspect that the stubby VW/BMW spike may be just enough. Need to find a VW store that will let me try one I guess. Or search out an aftermarket replacement whip and cut it down to a more convenient size. Someday...

Cheers! <img src="graemlins/beerchug.gif" border="0" alt="[cheers]" />

BSnyder

Appreciate the advice. Looks like I'll be doing the old unscrew-and-cover routine. (probably saved me from replacing my antenna in the process) Not sure I would have known that it even unscrewed in the first place: Love this board!! <img src="graemlins/beerchug.gif" border="0" alt="[cheers]" />