Satellite Antenna Relocation / Fix

[TheHops]

I finally fixed my poor Sirius XM / GPS reception caused by my rooftop setup. The fix was incredibly easy and cheap. I tested the system after install with a roughly 20 minute drive and had zero cutouts, as opposed to the typical pattern of 5-10 second breaks in reception every 20-30 seconds or so. I put together a quick, <4 minute video below showing the location and the process. Check it out if you have similar issues!

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[AustinKalb]

I moved my antenna to above the driver side sun visor. It worked great until I added load racks. Now I need to relocate again.

Are you still happy with that location under the wipers? Any dropouts? How about while you use the wipers?

 

[WILDHOBO]

I finally fixed my poor Sirius XM / GPS reception caused by my rooftop setup. The fix was incredibly easy and cheap. I tested the system after install with a roughly 20 minute drive and had zero cutouts, as opposed to the typical pattern of 5-10 second breaks in reception every 20-30 seconds or so. I put together a quick, <4 minute video below showing the location and the process. Check it out if you have similar issues!

This is fantastic. Thanks. Would you mind providing part numbers or links for the cable you used? I really like the idea of not removing and moving the original antennae.

Somewhat related, since you seem to have knowledge of this area, I have a project I’d like to attempt, and maybe you have some advice. Do you know if the similar cable for the rear camera can be switched? What I mean is could one create a Y junction at the tailgate camera connection with a relay switch? I’d like to buy an additional Oem camera, attach it to the rear of my trailer, and be able to flip a switch to use that camera instead of the tailgate camera, when towing. I think it would be an amazing mod.

 

[MSFTMatt]

Great info! I didn't know why my Sat radio was cutting out since I didn't know where the antennae was. I'll be watching for the response to Wildhobo as that is a great idea.

 

[AustinKalb]

This is fantastic. Thanks. Would you mind providing part numbers or links for the cable you used? I really like the idea of not removing and moving the original antennae.

Somewhat related, since you seem to have knowledge of this area, I have a project I’d like to attempt, and maybe you have some advice. Do you know if the similar cable for the rear camera can be switched? What I mean is could one create a Y junction at the tailgate camera connection with a relay switch? I’d like to buy an additional Oem camera, attach it to the rear of my trailer, and be able to flip a switch to use that camera instead of the tailgate camera, when towing. I think it would be an amazing mod.

This is what I used.

https://infotainment.com/shop/exter...er-jk-siriusxm-satellite-radio-antenna-kit-2/

 

[WILDHOBO]

This is what I used.

https://infotainment.com/shop/exter...er-jk-siriusxm-satellite-radio-antenna-kit-2/

Thanks. I already ordered the one for the JL/JT from @AllMoparParts.com, just now. I also found the fakra z cable on Amazon. I’m excited to not have my xm cut out anymore. It started when I adjusted things in the roof, and it’s fine if I remove it. Thanks for sharing everyone.

 

[WILDHOBO]

I finally fixed my poor Sirius XM / GPS reception caused by my rooftop setup. The fix was incredibly easy and cheap. I tested the system after install with a roughly 20 minute drive and had zero cutouts, as opposed to the typical pattern of 5-10 second breaks in reception every 20-30 seconds or so. I put together a quick, <4 minute video below showing the location and the process. Check it out if you have similar issues!

Quick question, is the antenna ip6something weather proof? I ask since the Oem antennae isn’t exposed to direct weather being in the sound bar. Thanks!

 

[AustinKalb]

Quick question, is the antenna ip6something weather proof? I ask since the Oem antennae isn’t exposed to direct weather being in the sound bar. Thanks!

Good question. I don’t know. I’m going to mount it as the OP did, under the wipers so hopefully not exposed to much.

 

[WILDHOBO]

Good question. I don’t know. I’m going to mount it as the OP did, under the wipers so hopefully not exposed to much.

For me, that would be constant exposure to the elements. Snow, ice, etc. so I want to make sure it’s at least ip67.

 

[TheHops]

I moved my antenna to above the driver side sun visor. It worked great until I added load racks. Now I need to relocate again.

Are you still happy with that location under the wipers? Any dropouts? How about while you use the wipers?

Reception isn't 100%, but it is far better than it was before. Nowadays, I'll have intermittent dropouts when facing north (due to the satellites being to the south). No issues related to the windshield or wipers.

This is fantastic. Thanks. Would you mind providing part numbers or links for the cable you used? I really like the idea of not removing and moving the original antennae.

Somewhat related, since you seem to have knowledge of this area, I have a project I’d like to attempt, and maybe you have some advice. Do you know if the similar cable for the rear camera can be switched? What I mean is could one create a Y junction at the tailgate camera connection with a relay switch? I’d like to buy an additional Oem camera, attach it to the rear of my trailer, and be able to flip a switch to use that camera instead of the tailgate camera, when towing. I think it would be an amazing mod.

I have links/part numbers in the video description on YouTube.

That sounds like a great idea, and honestly, I don't see why it wouldn't work. I'm unsure if there's an existing kit like that. I know there are existing accessory cameras out there. Zautomotive offers one, and I believe Stinger does as well. Those may be good starting points for research to see what they use in terms of cables.

Quick question, is the antenna ip6something weather proof? I ask since the Oem antennae isn’t exposed to direct weather being in the sound bar. Thanks!

I would be very surprised if it's not. The OEM antennae isn't *in* the sound bar, it's on top of it, so it is indeed exposed to the elements when the top is off. The OEM antenna is incredibly cheap (I think I saw them as low as $10-$20 used on ebay), so if you were interested in a fully exposed solution, it may be worth picking one up and testing it out before committing to the solution.

 

[WILDHOBO]

Reception isn't 100%, but it is far better than it was before. Nowadays, I'll have intermittent dropouts when facing north (due to the satellites being to the south). No issues related to the windshield or wipers.



I have links/part numbers in the video description on YouTube.

That sounds like a great idea, and honestly, I don't see why it wouldn't work. I'm unsure if there's an existing kit like that. I know there are existing accessory cameras out there. Zautomotive offers one, and I believe Stinger does as well. Those may be good starting points for research to see what they use in terms of cables.



I would be very surprised if it's not. The OEM antennae isn't *in* the sound bar, it's on top of it, so it is indeed exposed to the elements when the top is off. The OEM antenna is incredibly cheap (I think I saw them as low as $10-$20 used on ebay), so if you were interested in a fully exposed solution, it may be worth picking one up and testing it out before committing to the solution.

Thanks very much for the clarification. I thought it was inside the sound bar. I’ve got a new Oem antenna on its way. My plan for camera choice re the other project was to stay Oem. I’d buy a black one to blend into the black trailer. That way I could use the trailer zoom function. Maybe I’ll order one and play around a bit.

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