78 308 antenna which one to use?

The antenna you were sold is not operating like the original. You want a "semi-automatic" antenna, which requires a three position switch. Off in the middle, and up/down.

The original antennas are no longer made...you can get a decent quality semi-automatic antenna that will wire right up to the original stuff for around $50 or so. I even got a black one that matches the trim on my 328. Not original looking, but I think it looks better.

http://www.antennaworld.com/

The were out of the black ones when I ordered, so they assisted me with ordering a chrome one, the ordering a replacement black mast and black cap cover for the mount (an extra $14 or so).

Nice thing is if I ever break the mast, I can get replacements from them cheap.

 

I recently modified my original antenna motor switch so to work with an aftermarket aerial.

Most aftermarket aerials are designed to be triggered by an on/off switch from the radio, raising up fully when the radio is turned on, and down completely when switched off. But wiring the aerial to the radio in this manner disables the functionality of the original console switch (i.e., no way to partially raise or lower the aerial).

The fix was to go to Radio Shack and purchase a couple of diodes for $0.99 and wire them across one of the contacts of the original console switch.

The switch now works great, just as it came from the factory.

 

I used 2 relays that the antenna supplier gave me. Works like the old one did before it died.

 

Yes, the commonly available "fully automatic" antenna can be converted to semi-automatic operation, but easier still, is just to go to the link I provided and buy a semi-automatic antenna that requires no modification, for $25! Easy, easy!

 

I had this exact same question a few months ago and went to antennaworld.com as Dave Handa suggested. I ordered the semi-auto antenna. Cost me $31 with shipping. I installed it in my '77 GTB in 10 minutes and it works perfectly. It came with the hardware to install. A perfect installation experience! Thanks Dave!

Birdman

 

I used a fully auto with a relay to keep the console switch operational.
Cost me 35 $ and was a couple of hours job to figure the wiring.

I most definately would have gone with Dave's suggestion (should have known it); can't beat it!

My antenna works well, though.

 

Slightly different post, but my aerial switch stopped working in one direction. I have not had time to disassemble it to see if it can be fixed, but was just wondering if there are replacements out there, and where are they?

 

As a functional replacement, it's just a double pole, double throw toggle switch with momentary contacts (meaning that the thing returns to the center when you let go of it). Any number of places will have them such as Digikey. However, if you want a Ferrari replacement, I suggest checking with Ferrari UK. I'll bet they have it.

Birdman

 

Did you get S-41? I need to do this. My antenna is less reliable than the windows.

 

Yes, I bought the S-41. It is a direct replacement for the stock antenna. If you have a 328, then you need to get the small top cap option which more closely resembles the original Bosch top. I didn't realize this was available , but instead bought the black replacement mast and black top cap peices so the whole unit is now black, which matches the black trim on a 328.

 

Yes, S-41

 

Just checked my sales slip. Yes, S-41 it is. Works perfectly and it's about the cheapest repair I have ever made to the car!

Jonathan

 

Vogel - try Radio Shack TV Tuner Cleaner and Lubricant on your switch. This stuff works miracles, it usually takes a full day for it to pentrate but ends up being a permanent fix. It's really amazing stuff, mutch better than CRC or other contact cleaners (Radio Shack also makes a straight contact cleaner which isn't the same -- needs to be the TV Tuner Cleaner and Lubricant).

Dave - Great tip on antennaworld.com. Anyone know if the S-41 fits on a Mondial 3.2?

 

Thanks for this thread!!! My 308 antenna doesn't work. I just logged on to antenna world and ordered an S-41!

 

Hey Vogel,
I re-used my original switch when I installed my replacement antenna and thus have the new unused switch from the replacement antenna and it's yours if you want it. Send me a private message with your address and I'll send it to you.

Jonathan