XM Sirius Antenna

[ladisney]

I recently installed the GPS/XM Sirius mount.  When I next tried to turn on the XM radio it wasn't working and I got a warning that the antenna wasn't working.  Part of the installation instructions said to disconnect the antenna at the connector.  When I tried to do so I couldn't figure out how the connector came apart so I left it alone after trying to pop the upper end off with no luck.  Two possible issues as I see it.  I damaged the connector, although it seems ok or the antenna itself doesn't like being screwed to the mount.  Any ideas?

[Jubeeprince]

The sat radio antenna connector is like a mini coax cable connector. the difference is it doesn't unscrew like the TV coax. If you look closely at  the picture, you'll see a small, rectangular plastic tab on the side of the barrel. You have to depress (a lot!) this tab, in order for the end of the barrel to release.

The antenna needs a clear, unobstructed view of the SW sky to work, so we'll assume you didn't try and use it parked in the garage! :)




Hope that helps,

Steve

[ladisney]

I tried and couldn't get the end to come out so I just shoved it together and left it alone.  I wonder if I damaged it.  Is there anyone who sells replacement connectors?  I've never seen anything like it.

[JerseyRider]

I had the same experience after I installed the mount on my TT.  It was also a pain in the A## to get that plug out but it will be coaxed out.  I depressed both tabs with pics and pulled the plug.  I got it eventually and that reset the antenna and it is working great now.  Good Luck.

[Jubeeprince]

Originally Posted by ladisney

Is there anyone who sells replacement connectors?  I've never seen anything like it.

I believe they're called FAKRA connectors. (google it). Didn't see a round one like what's on the bike, but you could always splice a new one in....

Steve

[ladisney]

I've been too busy riding to mess with the XM antenna but I'm getting ready for a longer ride and would like to get it working.  One of the cable ends is pulled out of the connector and cannot be put back.  I need to know what type the coax cable is so I can get either a new connector or new male and female connectors . I've repaired the ones that go to my TV but never anything so small.  Any experts out there who can give me a clue?

[ladisney]

I did some searching and this is what I found.  The cable is rg174 and the stock connector is made by Hirose Electric or HRS.  While they have some resellers in the US, none of them have the same connector on their websites.  I ordered a connector made by another company and will replace both ends rather than just the one I destroyed.