So, as it goes, you always think you've got every part until you realize 'Oh crap - This doesn't have that'

I got a working radio from a '55 parts car (deluxe) and was in the process of putting it into my driver - which, although was a radio delete car, someone had chopped a hole in the fender for an antenna so, what the heck, right? Have an FM converter so I can listen to music instead of just talk radio...but I digress

I have a mast, the bracket, and the plastic nut - what I need is this chrome base / bezel / escusteon (never spell that word right) and the nut

Anyone have one on a parts car? The rubber base would be great too, even as a template to make another one - I'd really appreciate any help on this one.

 

Gordon have you looked at any of the universal replacement antennas? The one on my car looks very close to the original(so close that it passed at the Nationals and Regionals) and they are very inexpensive and look and work good.

I don't know about the FM qualities of these units, I'm still stuck on talk radio, no FM on my ride....Tedd

 

FWIW, I've also seen these advertised, basically introduces MP3 / iPod /USB etc thru the antenna lead. No idea how well they work, and you'd still be limited to the sound quality of your existing speakers.

http://redirad.com/

 

Thanks Russ - I've seen the RediRads - nice, but you still need an input for the FM signal (portable radio, etc..) - these just provide something to hook that signal into.

The FM converter actually is an FM radio that plays over an AM station on your car's radio...so, as you said, your car's sound system is still subject to 'scrutiny' -

In either case, I still need this piece (antenna base) to give the correct look for the restoration.

 

Not going to do you any good right now, but my dad might have the entire antenna or even just the base. But I won't get up to his house for several weeks and he doesn't do the internet. I could ask next time I call him. Personally I'd try a universal as Tedd suggested. You say they chopped a hole in the fender - are you sure it's the correct size for the original antenna and not too large?

 

Russ - I guess I should clarify: I'm using this radio in my driver - for this, the universal will be fine - I'm also restoring a 2 door sedan, which I just realized is missing this base - so, absolutely, ask your dad when you see him next - all I need is that chrome base - even without the nut I'm sure I can find one.

many thanks

 

I'll ask him to look next phone call. I'll probably get up there in a couple weeks also. Are 55 and 56 the same? He has parts for both years.

 

This I'm not sure about - my gut would say yes - but so many things aren't when you'd think they would be - I would guess that a '56 would be very close either way - however, given a choice I'd obviously take a '55.

Not sure if this factors in, but it's a fixed (i.e. non-power) antenna - fairly certain those bases were different.

Thanks for your efforts

 

Gordon, spoke with my dad yesterday and he does not have any spare antennas or their parts. I did notice that Fusick sells the gasket or fender seal. It also looks like Chevys used a different antenna, no idea on Buick or Pontiac.

 

Gordon - I have the chrome bezel - no nut or rubber. It needs replating. If you want it PM me with your address and I will send it to you.

Rick

 

If the 55 and 56 are like the 54, the antenna actually has a brace under the fender that bolts to the firewall that keeps the antenna from flexing and eventually cracking the sheet metal around the hole. You have to put the antenna in from the bottom side of the hole. These things were well built.

 

Yes - I have the bracket, the plasic nut, and the mast - it was just the chrome bezel I was missing as the car was already somewhat disassembled when I bought it - you think you've accounted for everything!

WHIPOLDS was kind enough to send me one, so I think I'm set! Thanks to all.