Power antenna install

[oldcouple]

I got it in, but how do I wire it? I would like it to go up when I turn the radio on, do I use a jumper from the speaker or is there some other way?

[brak]

In order to give a definite answer, we'd need to know a bit about your setup.

Most aftermarket head units have a "antenna" output, which tells the antenna to go up.

if you're using a stock radio, you would probably need to wire a switch to control it manually.

Personally i prefer option 2 either way, because i like the antenna down, only raising it to get better reception if needed.

[oldcouple]

xx

[wilkin250r]

It depends on your headunit. A jumper from the speakers won't work, the antenna is expecting a 12V DC voltage, your speaker is going to be anywhere between 2 and 20 volts, and will be an alternating current. Not the same thing.

If it's an older stereo, you might need a separate switch, like brak said. Newer units have a remote output that turns on only when the unit is on. It's designed to turn on amplifiers and stuff, but could also easily be used to raise the antenna. The only drawback is that it would raise the antenna anytime the stereo is on at all, even playing CDs or Ipod inputs, it wouldn't be limited to just the "radio" portion.

Fancy and expensive units might actually have a dedicated "antenna" option that raised the antenna only when the radio is used, but not when other music sources are being used.