Satellite antenna cable install

[Alta Lad]

I'm looking for feedback on how a satellite antenna wiring is routed into the cab of the truck. Do they run the wires through the back window trim or somewhere else?

[RichBailey]

I assume you are installing an xm antenna. The routing I have seen puts the cable through the center stoplight. According to local audio guys, they have not had any leaks.

I am going to use a Terk xm11 glass mount antenna. No drilling required. Will mount it on the front windshield on the passenger side, although you could mount on the back glass. You might want to look into that antenna, $49 at etronics.com.

[3-Fan]

On my HD I drilled a hole through my center cab light. Fed the antenna wire down through and then sealed it up with some black caulk. Never had a leak and makes great access to anywhere oyu wanna mount your radio. On my S-10 I drilled through the 3rd break light and then sealed it up the same way.

Originally I ran the antenna wire underneathe the front window moulding and under the hood. Then pulled the wire though the firewall. I didn't care for that way as much since I also had my CB coax cable running through the same hole. It was giving me some serious distortion.

Have heard the glass mounted antenna work well though. Never tried one.

Good luck!!

[Alta Lad]

I was thinking of notching the brake light as well and running the antenna cable there. Just wanted to check on what everyone else did before I made my decision. Thanks everyone who replied.

[c5dura]

I notched the 3rd brake light as well for my install. I was going the thru-glass route at first, but the defogger wires in the rear window prevents the use of those since there is a wire at the very top, so I went with a XM3 instead and the install was a breeze.

[bigbobed]

No need to notch the housing. The wires are so small they will be surrounded by the gasket. Mine has been in for nearly a year with no leaks. Been through some downpours.

[TBC]

The audio shop ran mine under the cargo light and have had no leaks. The wire is thin and flat. The Antenna is about 6 inches forward of the light and works great.

Tom

[Murf]

Are we talking after market add on type of XM system - ie Delphi or what exactly? I've got some interest in XM antenna technology :rolleyes: (or lack of tech in re to retroing stock antenna)