1st Generation Specific (1979-1985) 1979-1985 Discussion including performance modifications and technical support sections

Do i need a relay to wire a switch to my power antenna?

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Old 09-17-07, 08:07 AM
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Brap, Brap, Ole!

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Do i need a relay to wire a switch to my power antenna?

I have searched, but i am still a little confused and i want to be triple sure that i do not cause an electrical issue that could burn my car down!

I have an 84 GSL with the premium sound system. All of the original stereo has been replaced, new head unit, speakers and wiring.

With a test light i was able to locate the power antenna; it would go up when it was grounded and go down when the circuit was incomplete.

This would lead me to believe that i could wire a switch to the antenna wire and another to a ground and with a flip of a switch the antenna would go up.

The reason why i am asking is because i have heard of so many horror stories on this forum with the power antenna wired incorrectly.

So, can what i have thought of work or will i need a relay of some sort?
Old 09-17-07, 08:12 AM
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RX for fun

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there is nothing wrong with adding a relay.

http://www.rx7.org/public/antenna.html

Last edited by Siraniko; 09-17-07 at 08:19 AM.
Old 09-17-07, 11:18 AM
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Thanks for the link, but do i need a relay then at all?
Old 09-17-07, 01:30 PM
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I just finished doing this on my RX-7. I added a relay to ground for the antenna, and my stereo remote wire (the blue one) controls the relay coil hot side. The only draw back is that the radio has to be turned off for the antenna to go down. It will not go down with key off, but that is the way my stock radio worked too.
Old 09-17-07, 04:09 PM
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Huh, well what are the adverse effect symptoms be? Would the switch get hot?
Old 09-17-07, 05:28 PM
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I can has a Hemi? Yes...

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https://www.rx7club.com/1st-gen-archive-71/stereo-power-antenna-seekers-look-here-445674/
Old 09-17-07, 07:49 PM
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I have had no adverse affects. The switch will not get hot if you use a relay. The relay is handling the highest current or the antenna. The switch (or radio in my case) is simply powering the relay.
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