RX7Club.com - Mazda RX7 Forum

RX7Club.com - Mazda RX7 Forum (https://www.rx7club.com/)
-   3rd Generation Specific (1993-2002) (https://www.rx7club.com/3rd-generation-specific-1993-2002-16/)
-   -   Cleaning antenna ? (https://www.rx7club.com/3rd-generation-specific-1993-2002-16/cleaning-antenna-270481/)

cruiser 02-11-04 02:32 AM

Cleaning antenna ?
 
I was just wondering what you use to clean the electric antenna ? Mine got all dirty and I took some WD40 and cleaned it. Should I then lube it with something ?

What do you do?

RotorMotor 02-11-04 05:12 AM

ive used white lithium grease before but it tends to pick up dirt....

cruiser 02-11-04 06:05 AM

Yea, thats why I'm asking, all that dirt on it doesnt help it either. ITs all shiny now with WD40 on it :D

Mahjik 02-11-04 07:29 AM

WD-40 is ok for cleaning the antenna. However, you need to make sure it's lubed after you clean it. Use some 3-in-1 oil to keep it lubed (and I would also use that to clean it in the future... WD-40 has a way of attacking plastic).

RotorMotor 02-11-04 09:17 AM

so youd say 3in1 oil will pick up less dirt than white lithium grease? i think WLG is whats recomended

DaveW 02-11-04 09:30 AM

I've had my FD for almost 12 years now and all I have ever used (no problems yet) on it is silicone spray (wipe down afterward) on the exposed shaft. I've stayed away from any oil-based products because of the dirt-pickup problem. Does it also need some additional internal lubrication?

Mahjik 02-11-04 10:05 AM


Originally posted by RotorMotor
so youd say 3in1 oil will pick up less dirt than white lithium grease? i think WLG is whats recomended
Dirt pick up is not as much of a problem as lubrication, as far as the antenna is concerned.

DaveW 02-11-04 10:10 AM

Mahjik,
Is lack of lubrication a problem more on the sliding parts of the shaft, or the internals of the retractor mechanism?

Mahjik 02-11-04 10:18 AM


Originally posted by DaveW
Mahjik,
Is lack of lubrication a problem more on the sliding parts of the shaft, or the internals of the retractor mechanism?

Honestly, I'm not sure. I have yet to take out (or need to take out) the FD antenna. On my other cars, it was always the lack of lubrication on the sliding parts that cause a problem (the motor trying to push the antenna up and eventually tearing itself apart).

My theory, and it's only a theory, is that the 3-in-1 oil can drip and slide into places that I wouldn't be able to apply normal grease. I've been doing the 3-in-1 oil for over 6 years and my original antenna is still working (not that I use the radio ever). ;)

DaveW 02-11-04 10:28 AM

I've never liked grease or oil on exposed parts like the antenna shaft. In add'n to picking up dirt, the greases and oils tend to oxidize and become gummy varnish, binding things up.

Mahjik 02-11-04 10:31 AM


Originally posted by DaveW
I've never liked grease or oil on exposed parts like the antenna shaft. In add'n to picking up dirt, the greases and oils tend to oxidize and become gummy varnish, binding things up.
I've never had a problem with the 3-in-1 oil. It's been recommend for years (not only here, but other places) for use on electronic antennas.

Once those sliding parts get stuck, you can kiss the motor goodbye and you'll be replacing the entire unit.

DaveW 02-11-04 10:38 AM

OK. Thanks.

cruiser 02-11-04 03:00 PM

What is this 3-in-1 oil ? Which brand ?
I need to find something around here in Europe.
I drive around alot with my gf, and we listen to the radio often...

Mahjik 02-11-04 03:44 PM

https://www.rx7club.com/attachment.p...postid=2651991


Originally posted by cruiser
What is this 3-in-1 oil ? Which brand ?
I need to find something around here in Europe.
I drive around alot with my gf, and we listen to the radio often...

There's what I use.


All times are GMT -5. The time now is 04:56 PM.


© 2024 MH Sub I, LLC dba Internet Brands