woo2000

Does anyone know how to replace the lower portion of the antenna seal? Can I remove and replace from the exterior of the car? It's very difficult to get to it from trunk given the convertible hydraulic cylinder is in the way. I've found one video but not for a cabriolet. Thanks.

BENDIT

Just done this to replace to mast which had broken off inside antenna unit. I changed the seal at the same time.
You cannot compress the seal enough to remove it while the antenna is in place.
You need to remove the entire antenna unit and then remove the seal from the top - squeeze and pull with large pliers. Apply a bit of petroleum jelly or similar to the sealing surfaces of new seal and push it down until it pops into place. Now push the antenna unit back up through the seal - you might need a lever to apply pressure to the base of the unit as it will be a tight fit in the new seal.
Hope this helps.

woo2000

Thanks for your explanation. So you're saying I have to remove the trunk/boot compartment liner, hydraulic cylinder for the tonneau cover, and the metal plate that covers the antenna unit? Seems like a lot of work for something so simple. I had a reply on another site on which I posted the same question and he said to go from the outside... so I'm a little confused.

BENDIT

No, you don’t need to do all that.
remove the trunk liner on the left side. You may need to remove the center section liner to get the side one out.
No need to remove the hydraulic ram. There is no steel cover plate,
the antenna is held inside a pressed steel box by one bolt towards the front of the box and the earth strap screw.
Remove these and the antenna unit will drop down into the box and can be pulled out from the rear. It’s actually very easy.
my car is RHD so your antenna may be on the right side - don’t know - but the fittings will be the same.

woo2000

Thanks! Didn't realize the antenna is only held by the one screw (and earth ground) you noted. Looks like everything in front of it needs to be removed. Sounds easy enough and since you just did it I'm sure you know what you're talking about. Cheers.

BENDIT

I had the antenna mast out when I replaced the seal. You may need to do this also.
just undo the nut at the top of the antenna base and tun the radio on. The whole thing will come out. You might need to help it on its way. Installation is the reverse. Turn the radio on, push the plastic stem into the antenna base until you feel it connect, then turn the radio off and the mast will be drawn to the antenna. Retighten the nut.

woo2000

Seems very easy now that I know I don't have to remove the metal plate covering the antenna mechanism. Kiwi to the rescue. Thanks, mate!

WebberMerc

Thanks for the info @BENDIT

I can feel the box and that there's a screw at the bottom, but since I can't see it and the metal plate in the front prevents me from using a screwdriver, how did you remove it? I can't find any diagrams or pictures of this anywhere.

Thanks in advance for your reply.

woo2000

WebberMerc, it's been 4 years but I can tell you I followed Bendit's directions and was able to do it with some patience. I do remember it was a very tight area to work within, so if you have large hands it may be a little painful. Also, the two pieces fit very tightly together so it may take a few attempts. Good luck!

WebberMerc

Thanks @woo2000 for that quick reply! Yeah, looks like I will have to get my head in there somehow to see what's going on.

woo2000

BTW, when I did mine I used OEM parts. The top portion was extremely difficult to find back then because the part was discontinued. I have seen that they're now being made again as aftermarket. I have no idea if the new ones fit as well as the originals. The fit was very precise and tight to ensure waterproofing.

woo2000

Don't know if you have your parts yet but just saw this...

https://www.ebay.com/itm/33489629197...&segname=11021

nashvegas

Bit of good news for those following this thread. I just (last week) ordered and have now received a genuine M-B upper and lower antenna seal for my 1994 E320 Cabrio. Apparently these parts were out of production, but they're back. I ordered direct from MB Classic center in Long Beach btw. https://classicparts.mbusa.com

Parts involved were:

Seal, Antenna, Plastic 12482707987c45 1 $15.20
Seal, Antenna, Plastic 12482708987c45 1 $15.68 (looks like same part # but there's a one digit difference...)

woo2000

Thanks for letting others know. They were indeed out of production when I did my repair and were nearly impossible to find. Glad MB is making them again.