This is a DIY tutorial of my experience replacing my OEM antenna in a W124 (1992 300E) with a Hirschman 2040 aftermarket antenna.


If you're reading this it may already be too late, but if your power antenna stops working, DISCONNECT POWER TO IT IMMEDIATELY until you have a chance to fix the problem.

I noticed my antenna didn't retract one day, didn't think much of it, and soon after entered the car to the unmistakable stench of burnt electronics and a near-dead battery.

The antenna always has live power going to it (so it can retract after you shut your car off) and if the antenna jams and whatever sensor in the motor fails the motor can continue to run and strain until things literally go up in smoke. I was lucky my car didn't catch on fire... I think the wiring burnt through at some point which cut the power and prevented further carnage.




The result of a neglected antenna is a total loss.

Warning: When removing the old burnt antenna WEAR DISPOSABLE GLOVES or your hands will reek for a couple of days. I found the stink impossible to remove with various cleansers and abrasives, it didn't go away until a layer of skin did. You may also find the stink transferred to your tools, I cleaned those with a degreaser.




Above are the contents of the Hirschmann 2040 antenna package. This is a "universal style" antenna and comes with various fittings and wiring that we will not use. It is made in China but seems to be of decent quality and with a vastly reduced parts count compared to the OEM antenna.

It can also be purchased for about $55 which is MUCH cheaper than an OEM-style replacement.

Attached Thumbnails

   

__________________
1992 300E Sedan (Sold)
1999 E320 Wagon (Sold)
1995 E320 Sedan
1995 E320 Wagon