Disassembling an R230 to Remove the GPS Antenna

[ruby.petrovlm]

Unfortunately, I was unable to locate any instructions online for removing my GPS antenna (SL350) when I wanted to do so lately. While not difficult, it could come across as strange if no hints are provided.

Here are some of my tips on how to finish the job quickly and easily.


To access the area below the latch, open the boot and take off the big plastic panel in the middle of the back. Plastic clamps and screws secure it.

Starting with the service position, raise the boot lid all the way to the top of the vehicle to facilitate access.

In order for the roof/boot safety logic to permit this, ensure that the boot separation panel is installed. Turn off the engine and take the key out.

To reveal the antenna on the back of the vehicle, start at the left side and work your way forward using a plastic trim tool to pry the carpet out from beneath the rubber seal. Remove the carpet from the left boot. Several plastic fasteners and a rubber weather strip keep it in place.

Remove the antenna from the aircraft by placing a piece of cloth or other suitable material beneath it in the wing cavity. This will prevent any stray parts from falling behind the equipment rack.

To remove the antenna's top plastic cap, you must access it from outside the vehicle.

A brass nut is located beneath that cap. Take care when unscrewing it. The internal threaded section of the antenna will begin to separate as you proceed.

Disconnect the Fakra GPS coax plug from the inside before the assembly is completely removed. Pinch the end closest to the cable and pull it straight out.

Set the cable aside in a secure location, and then proceed to remove the external nut until the internal fastening falls onto the cloths you laid down below.

The antenna assembly should be lifted off the vehicle.

Before reinstalling the carpet and trim, turn the screws counterclockwise to ensure a snug fit between the seal and the floor.

Notes

Although it improves access significantly, the problematic part is the service-position boot opening.

The cloths placed beneath the antenna serve as an excellent safety measure.

Do not lever the Fakra plug in any direction other than straight out.

Before reinstalling, make sure there is no water seepage caused by a damaged seal or grommet.

[imaninovakrz]

Your instructions for taking the GPS antenna off are very helpful. This is incredibly useful because I also need to finish mine.

[ruby.petrovlm]

The correct word is "trunk" not "boot."

[adriandf]

Having the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) phone set will come with this phone antenna.

[ruby.petrovlm]

Did you not think so? Even though you usually have a lot more knowledge than me, I'm having trouble understanding what you're saying about the coaxial wire going to the DVD player that supplies the GPS and the command unit showing "GPS not available" when it's disconnected.