caretaker

Recently purchased a 87 420SEL with only 97,000 on it.

Very happy with it!

The W126 is a great car!

There are a few little things to fix... One of them is my power antenna does not retract completely. The antenna extends the entire way up (or whatever depending on the switch setting) but when the car or the radio is turned off it retracts all but one section. I do not hear any noises suggesting any slipping and the antenna can not be pushed down manually.

Does anyone have any suggestions on how to fix this?

During the time I was searching for my W126 I spent a lot of time lurking on this forum and found it to be an excellent resource. Keep up the good work!!!

vwbuge

You need to figure out which antannae you have. You need either a toothed or smooth type. Loosen the nut on the outside of the body while the ant is in down position. With the nut loose turn on the car and make the ant go up. The ant should pop out. Call local MB dealer or call 1-888-333-4642 and talk to Phil. He is very helpful and he will talk you through install. It is VERY easy. It should be an easy $30 fix.

caretaker

Since the antenna mast looked to be in perfect condition it did not occur to me that the problem could be with it. I removed it and you are correct. One section will not retract. I will get another one.

Thanks for the help!

rickyfanmdr

OMG, does that bring back memories! I had my 1985 380SE 17 years (until I got my present car about a year ago) (LOVED that car!), and I must have changed the mast about once a year. They recommend lubricating the thing with sewing machine oil regularly. That might help. It gets a lot of gunk in it, so you have to keep it meticulously clean--or else! Get used to replacing it. Fortunately, it's inexpensive.

Congratulations on your new car! It's still one of the most beautiful and best cars ever made!