Power antenna removal woes!

[ValCor]

I have a '98 A1 CSVT and I need to replace the power antenna. The problem is that I cannot remove the nut thingy holding the old one in place. So far I have managed to bugger it up a little bit and I don't want to goof up. Anyone know how to get it out so I can replace it? Thanks. I did search and came up empty.

[Fmr12B]

Do you have the large chrome base?

[ValCor]

No, I do not have the large chrome base. My beauty is an A1 and they changed the base. I have a black and chrome one with a "cross pattern" of slots. My Haynes manual says to pry it off, but I don't think it applies to my model. I tried to pry with no luck. I guess you could call my car a '98.5 or an A1. They changed the wheels and the antenna mount. I tried prying, screwing, and finally gave up after slipping a couple of times. I don't want to damage it, just fix it.

[Fmr12B]

I did this about 4yrs ago but forgot how, once I rework the motions should be easy enough. I remember using a screwdriver and hammer to undo the notched ring.

I'm pretty sure I had to unscrew sumin in the trunk too........

I'll look at mine tomorrow once I get back from the city.

And it's E1 not A1

[Blackfoot]

get a screw driver and put it in a slot and hit it until it loosens up, then twist it off with your hand. be sure to put down a towel or something in case the screwdriver slips. trust me on that one.

[vudusvt]

I got 2 flathead screwdivers and put the blades in the slots sideways- naturally, put the blades in slots across from each other & turn the whole thing by the screwdriver handles. Be sure to keep firm pressure to the blade/slot contact area so that you minimize the chance of slipping.

HTH.

[allstyle12]

It took me 10 seconds to loosen mine up....with needle nose pliers A whole lot easier than 2 screwdrivers.

[ValCor]

Thanks everyone for your replies. I'll give it a try after work today.

[vudusvt]

It took me 10 seconds to loosen mine up....with needle nose pliers A whole lot easier than 2 screwdrivers.

lol... I see your point- but screwdirvers and socket wrenches were all I had at the wrecker that day.

[dion]

Are you replacing the whole unit? On my car, I've only had to replace the mast twice in the 10 years of ownership. The motor for my antenna still works great (now it'll probably die because I've said that).