The 1979 Corvette is a classic American sports car that is adored by many car enthusiasts. One of the unique features of this car is its power antenna wiring system. In this article, we will delve into the wiring diagram of the 1979 Corvette power antenna and provide you with all the information you need to know about it. So, let’s get started.
What is a Power Antenna?
A power antenna is a type of antenna that is controlled by a motor. It is used to receive radio signals for AM and FM radio stations. The power antenna system was introduced in the 1970s, and it quickly became a popular feature in cars, especially sports cars like the Corvette. The 1979 Corvette power antenna system is unique in terms of its wiring diagram, which we will explore in detail below.
The Wiring Diagram of the 1979 Corvette Power Antenna
The power antenna wiring diagram of the 1979 Corvette consists of several components. These include the power antenna relay, the power antenna motor, the antenna mast, and the switch. Let’s take a closer look at each of these components and how they fit into the wiring diagram.
Power Antenna Relay
The power antenna relay is a crucial component in the power antenna wiring diagram. It is responsible for controlling the power supply to the power antenna motor. The relay is usually located in the fuse box or a separate relay box under the hood of the car. In the 1979 Corvette, the power antenna relay is connected to the ignition switch, which means that the antenna will only work when the ignition is turned on.
Power Antenna Motor
The power antenna motor is the part of the power antenna that controls the mast’s movement. The motor is controlled by the power antenna relay, which supplies power to the motor to move the antenna mast up or down. The power antenna motor of the 1979 Corvette is usually located in the trunk of the car, near the antenna mast.
Antenna Mast
The antenna mast is the part of the power antenna that extends and retracts when the motor is activated. It is usually made of stainless steel or chrome-plated brass and mounted on the fender or rear of the car. The antenna mast of the 1979 Corvette is a two-section mast that extends to a length of 49 inches.
Switch
The switch is the control mechanism for the power antenna. It is usually located on the dashboard or the center console of the car. The switch allows the driver to control the antenna’s movement, such as extending and retracting the mast. The switch of the 1979 Corvette power antenna is a push-button switch with two positions: up and down.
FAQs About the 1979 Corvette Power Antenna Wiring Diagram
Q: Why is my power antenna not working?
A: If your power antenna is not working, there could be several reasons for this. The most common cause is a blown fuse or a faulty relay. You can check the fuse and relay to see if they are working correctly. If they are, then the problem could be with the power antenna motor or the switch.
Q: How do I test the power antenna motor?
A: To test the power antenna motor, you will need a multimeter. First, disconnect the power supply to the motor. Then, use the multimeter to check the resistance of the motor. If the reading is within the range specified in the car’s manual, then the motor is working correctly. If not, then the motor needs to be replaced.
Q: Can I replace the power antenna with a manual antenna?
A: Yes, you can replace the power antenna with a manual antenna. However, this would require removing the power antenna motor and replacing it with a manual antenna. This would also involve rewiring the antenna system and removing the power antenna relay and switch.
Conclusion
The power antenna wiring diagram of the 1979 Corvette is a unique system that is still popular among car enthusiasts. It provides a reliable and easy-to-use way to control the car’s radio reception. However, like any other electrical system, it can sometimes malfunction. By understanding the wiring diagram and the components involved, you can diagnose and fix any issues that arise with your power antenna system.
