New antenna qestions

[Purdue89E30]

I would like to replace my power antenna since it doesn't go all the way down anymore and it gets pretty bad reception, I'm thinking about one of the S2000 style antennas that are sold on ebay like this one

Does anyone know if these come ready to install on an e30? Is an amplified antenna going to help or harm the quality? I currently have a Blaupunkt deck. Thanks in advance

[browntown]

dunno, but e30tech has a sticky on an e36 stubby retrofit.

http://www.e30tech.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=24276&highlight=antenna

[ldsbeaker]

Yes, the Z3 one works exceptionally well. Just have to remember to unscrew the antenna if I take it to the carwash...

[Purdue89E30]

Yeah I've looked at those but I prefer the look of the s2000 ones

[browntown]

use the z3 base, and screw on a s2000 stubby, should work - cant guarantee it though.

[StereoInstaller1]

Where would you mount that Fubu?

Roof install is do-able, but PITA.

Luke

[Purdue89E30]

Where would you mount that Fubu?

Roof install is do-able, but PITA.

Luke

same place as the old one, i'm not drilling through my roof

[Purdue89E30]

So can anyone give me an answer regarding amplified antennas? I've heard that using one when you don't need it can have negative effects but I'm not sure if this is true or if I have to worry about it.

[StereoInstaller1]

So can anyone give me an answer regarding amplified antennas? I've heard that using one when you don't need it can have negative effects but I'm not sure if this is true or if I have to worry about it.

I have installed several of those antennas. Excellent performance overall.

The amplifier is not like a "Signal Booster", but more like a device to make up for the short mast. Expect piss-poor AM, BTW.

Ideally, a FM antenna is 31", sticking up from the roof, in the center.

Dead center is best.

FM works (in an automotive application) by a comparison of the "Ground Plane" (metal of the car) VS. the vertical mast.

That is why Corvettes have a grounded metal plate under the antenna.

So, since we know what is ideal, but aren't willing to make it happen, all else is compromise.

Personally, since the E30 headliner is fairly easy to remove, (enough to do this install anyway) I wouldn't hesitate to install one of those antennas on my roof...except I hate FM, so I will have no antenna at all!

Luke

[Purdue89E30]

Shit, I actually listen to AM more than FM. So I guess I'll need a normal antenna then?

[StereoInstaller1]

Yeah...if AM is your bag (sports or talk?) your best bet is the stock setup.

If yours is not working well, try lubing with Marvel Mystery oil. Should free it up pretty well.

Luke

[Purdue89E30]

OK, thanks for all the help

[vic_325]

Yeah...if AM is your bag (sports or talk?) your best bet is the stock setup.

If yours is not working well, try lubing with Marvel Mystery oil. Should free it up pretty well.

Luke

how would lubing the antenna work?

[Kruzen]

Anyone know how much the antenna bases for a z3 run? I can't find any on ebay, just the 3.5" rod