I see these things all the time on eBay but they look pretty different from the stock antenna. Are they a direct swap, or do they need to be rewired? I ask because they are MUCH cheaper than the original antennas...

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The "universal" wiring harness is not universal. The wiring diagrams on Hirschman's site aren't overly helpful either. I would suggest checking out recyling yards and getting a OEM replacement with the proper plug connector, and save the "universal" as a last resort, especially if you want the auto up/down feature.

The mast and drive belt are available as replacement parts, if either of those happen to be the problem you are up against.

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1986 300E 5-Speed 240k mi.