How to Replace the Antenna on a 1989 Cutlass

The 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass came standard with an AM/FM radio coupled to a sufficient, no-frills stereo equipment package. In addition to its radio package, the Cutlass utilized an electric motor that raised an antenna if the radio was powered to the "on" position. If your 1989 Cutlass does not receive a proper radio signal or has experienced damage to the metal of the antenna, the antenna unit should be replaced.

Things You'll Need

• Adjustable wrench
• Phillips screwdriver

Instructions

1. Open the hood of the vehicle and locate the power antenna motor on the inside of the right fender, near the firewall of the engine bay.

2. Disconnect the power clip of the antenna motor from the engine wiring harness. Gradually work the clip lose from the harness to avoid ripping any of the electrical wires.

3. Unscrew the base of the antenna, located on top of the right fender.

4. Remove the four bolts connecting the power antenna motor to the inside of the fender well. Carefully pull down on the motor to guide the metal antenna through the hole in the top of the fender. Remove the power antenna motor from the engine bay.

5. Unscrew the four screws keeping the metal antenna in place on the antenna motor.

6. Replace the old antenna by screwing the new antenna onto the power antenna motor.

7. Guide the antenna through the hole of the fender before bolting the power antenna motor back into position.

Tips & Warnings

• Carefully guide the new metal antenna through the hole in the top of the fender. Excessive force will bend the thin metal of the antenna unit.

References

• "Haynes Repair Manual, General Motors - Olds Cutlass Supreme 1988 - 1997"; Robert Maddox and John H. Haynes; 2005