Best way to fix antenna?

[69bronzeT5]

The antenna on my Duster is bent fairly well right at the base where it mounts. What do you guys think the best way to bend it back straight is?

[mikepmcs]

cody
you got a close up picture by chance??

[69bronzeT5]

Just took one, I'm uploading it to Photobucket right now.

[69bronzeT5]

[69bronzeT5]

[mikepmcs]

is the antenna retracting or rigid?  solid or hollow? I haven't forgot about this thread i'm still  thinking the best way to go about it.

[Hemidog]

if it's hollow, it will break when you bend it back, dont ask how I know that 

[tan top]

that kind of late type antennas are solid , could heat it a little & straighten it in a vice  ... its stainless though     hmmm .. the heat marks might polish    be carefull you don't snap when bending , as its all ready stressed ,

[mikepmcs]

ok, solid, so heat will work(last resort) or bending it gradually or maybe putting it in a vise and massaging it that way(like tan suggested).  The vice could actually straighten it better then your hand i bet.  I wish I had my hands on it to assist you.....but I have confidence that if you take your time, move it a little, step back look at it, etc.... you will do a great job.
Take a coat hanger and see how well you can straighten it out.  That will give you an idea on what it will take to bend this back.

Patience is the key "Codysan"

v/r
Mike

[69bronzeT5]

Thanks guys, I'll see what I can do

[Back N Black]

ok, solid, so heat will work(last resort) or bending it gradually or maybe putting it in a vise and massaging it that way(like tan suggested).  The vice could actually straighten it better then your hand i bet.  I wish I had my hands on it to assist you.....but I have confidence that if you take your time, move it a little, step back look at it, etc.... you will do a great job.
Take a coat hanger and see how well you can straighten it out.  That will give you an idea on what it will take to bend this back.

Patience is the key "Codysan"

v/r
Mike

Wow, that is quite the pep talk in a minor antenna repair. Good thing it not open heart surgery! 

[Neal_J]

My bet is that straightening that mast is very long shot.  Why not just go to the junk yard & get a replacement?   Most late-model Fords use a solid, tapered stainless whip that cost like $2 here, used.   Granted, it's not "numbers matching" but it works & it looks good.

[69bronzeT5]

My bet is that straightening that mast is very long shot.  Why not just go to the junk yard & get a replacement?   Most late-model Fords use a solid, tapered stainless whip that cost like $2 here, used.   Granted, it's not "numbers matching" but it works & it looks good.

Well, I'm taking the car to a car show on Saturday. I don't have time to run to a junkyard (closest one is 45 mins away). Also, that junkyard likes to charge a bunch. I bought a dirty sill plate from them off a '72 Dart Swinger and it cost me $10.