Questions and Answers
Honda, Chevy and a New Truck
Q. I have a 1994 Honda Accord LX and the power antenna does not go up or down but I can hear the motor run. I think the cable that pulls the antenna down is broke. How hard are they to fix? How would I setup an aftermarket kit?
My next question: My Dad has a 1991 suburban and it has a rear window that slides up and down but the metal bar on the bottom of the window rusted out on one side can I buy that piece and glue it back to the window or do I have to buy a new window.
My last question I'm in the market for a used SUV for work. I do computer repair and building wiring for networks. I'm looking for a vehicle that can take a little bit of abuse I was thinking about a grand wagoneer but the millage is terrible if I could just find one with a 258 I6. I need to carry ladders, tools, drills and a few other things. But I also need room to take people places sometimes. I like the AMC Wagoneers but I don't like the 360 or 4 wheel drive. I think I could live with the 4 wheel drive if I can find one with a 6 cylinder.
Thanks,
Your friend MikeA. You hit the nail on the head with the broken cable diagnosis. That is the number one reason for that failure. The antenna mast is replaceable without buying a whole new antenna assembly. What you need to do is get a new mast at the dealer (it is a dealer only item). Around the antenna base is a large plastic nut. It will have two or four slots in it. I use a pair of needle nose pliers and fit the jaws into the slots and turn the screw off. Then turn the key to the acc position and turn on the radio. The antenna will come up and keep going until the mast comes out completely. You may have to pull it out by hand the last few inches.
There is a plastic cable with teeth on it. It is important to note which way the teeth are facing. When it is out, take the new mast and insert the toothed cable facing the same way and have someone turn off the radio. The motor will grab the cable and pull it in. It may take three or for attempts, but it will go. Do not force it, apply light downward pressure and let the motor do the work. Once the mast is in and fully down, replace the retaining screw and snug it down. Over tightening will break or strip that retaining nut. Run the mast up and down a few times and you're all set.
As for the window, I believe you can buy that window guide separately. It does require special techniques and adhesives to remove the old guide and install the new one. You would be best served to take it to a glass shop and let them replace the guide on the window. If it is not available separately, you can get a whole window at a junkyard for a lot less than a new one. Just look at it before you buy it and make sure the guide is in good shape.
As for your last question, it is always difficult for me to recommend a particular make or model to someone. Car and truck buying is as much personal preference as it is practical consideration. Personally, If I were in your position, I would consider the Nissan Pathfinder. It is a good, solid, well built truck with a 3.5 liter engine. It has the power and torque I think you need and it will hold 5 people comfortably. It has a large cargo area in the back for plenty of tools, parts and equipment. Comparable trucks would be something like the Toyota 4-Runner, Chevy Blazer or Ford Explorer.
