I recently replaced the old, malfunctioning antenna on my 1986 Lincoln Town Car with a new automatic antenna, hoping to finally get rid of the persistent static on FM and the complete absence of AM stations. The car has a Kenwood CD head unit, which I know works perfectly as it was previously installed in my Toyota Camry with no issues. However, after the new antenna installation, the radio reception is still problematic, especially on the AM band.
When the car is off and in accessory mode, I can barely pick up some AM stations. But as soon as I start the engine, the AM band becomes plagued with buzzing, hissing, and popping static, making it impossible to listen to anything, even local stations here in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Looking at the antenna cable connection made by the installers, it seems like they cut the aftermarket antenna cable and the car’s existing antenna cable and simply sealed them together with electrical tape.
Alt text: A close-up view of a car antenna cable connection where two wires are joined and covered with black electrical tape, raising concerns about the quality and durability of the repair for optimal car radio signal.
Could this type of connection be the source of my poor radio reception and engine noise issues? I’m considering a few options to properly repair the antenna cable and improve signal quality. Would using a coaxial cable splice connection provide a more reliable link? Are butt connectors a suitable way to fuse the wires together? Or should I hard-wire the two ends directly for a more secure connection?
I’ve also come across antenna amplifier boosters and inline AM/FM antenna noise filters, like this one: ebay.com/itm/Car-Fm-Am-Radio-Stero-Inline-Antenna-Noise-Sound-Filter-/220807733152?pt=US_Wire_Harnesses&hash=item33692a9fa0. Could an inline noise filter effectively eliminate the engine noise and improve my AM reception?
It’s worth noting that the radio in my Toyota Highlander SUV works flawlessly with superb reception and no signal problems whatsoever, suggesting the issue is definitely with the Lincoln Town Car’s antenna setup. I’m looking for the best way to repair this antenna cable connection and finally enjoy clear AM/FM radio in my classic car.
