sr71 blackbird

I've searched the archives, but can't find details on repairing the power antenna (01 Convertible). The motor runs but mast stays in up position (no viagra jokes, please!).
Chuckster wrote about fixing a similar problem, but I couldn't find any details about removal of the unit to begin the repair work. Also, how will I tell if it's the "tail" that's lost it's teeth or something else?
I've replaced antenna mast "tails" before in a 90 Acura legend-- pretty easy, but getting at it was also easy.
Help please and thanks.

dataporter

Take out both passenger side tail lights and the antenna is right there behind them. You have to drill out the rivets to get it apart or you can buy a new one from Fred Beans.
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sr71 blackbird

Thanks. I successfully removed the antenna unit, drilled out the rivets, and found that the lower portion (about 5 inches) of the ribbon was broken off from the rest. That's why the antenna couldn't retract, as the remaining ribbon wasn't threaded.
I took the gears apart, rethreaded the ribbon that was left and reassembled the whole thing. Unfortunately, the antenna went up just fine, but can't retract, probably 'cause there's not enough ribbon remaining to do so properly. I'm guessing here.
Can I just buy a mast and ribbon to rethread in the motor housing, as it seems to run okay? Is that a dealer item or need I search for it elsewhere? Can I thread it without disassembly again?

Thanks in advance.

BATM4N

That would be cool if you get a chance to show us in a pic what your seeing. Words speak, but a pic is worth a thousand words

RPOZ4Z

cost me $90.00 for a new power antenna, there's no sense in trying to fix it at this point, and since it's already out you might as well just put in a brand new one and be done with it.

dataporter

www.fredbeansgmparts.com

BTW there is a real SR71 Blackbird sitting about three miles from my house at Castle Air Museum, Atwater, CA