Topic: 65 Antenna Mounting Measurements

[markb0729]

I'm looking for measurements to mount an antenna on the front passenger side fender of my 1965 Dearborn built Fastback with an approximate build date of September 2, 1964.  My Mustang came with a factory installed AM radio.  The original fender is not available to take a measurement or make a template (The original fender "disappeared" from the shop.  ).  I searched the forum and came up with a template but it has no measurements with respect to placement of the antenna hole and I suspect trying to print it out will not provide the proper spacing.  Can anybody provide the correct measurements for placement of the hole in the passenger fender for the antenna?  A crude diagram with measurements would be much appreciated or any measurements for that matter. 

[suskeenwiske]

This is all I have in my files and may be what you already found. I have an original January Dated '65 Fender, (as close as I can get to September '64), in storage that I will gladly make a template of, make measurements, etc. but will not be able to get to it until Thursday or Friday of this week.

Ray

[jwc66k]

Here's a template from an aftermarket company. Antennas were not a precision installation priority at a dealership. Just don't be sloppy. Drill the alignment hole first.
Jim

[ajd350]

When I used to prep them in the 70s I ALWAYS used the templates. You'd have a hard time explaining why you drilled into a brace or why the antenna didn't sit straight. Some guys winged it.

[Brian Conway]

author=jwc66k
Here's a template from an aftermarket company. Antennas were not a precision installation priority at a dealership. Just don't be sloppy. Drill the alignment hole first.
Jim
     I just checked these measurements against my car and they check out.  You can use 5 & 1/2" from the fender edge, abutting the cowl panel, to the ant. centerline.  Suggest using a very small pilot hole and 1 & 1/8" hole saw to finish.  Brian

[markb0729]

My thanks to everyone for their input.  Much appreciated!  It looks like I'm good to go.

Thanks for the offer Ray but I have enough info to proceed with the antenna installation.

[5F08KGT]

My thanks to everyone for their input.  Much appreciated!  It looks like I'm good to go.

Thanks for the offer Ray but I have enough info to proceed with the antenna installation.

Curious as to what you're using for an antenna? original or repro?

[markb0729]

I'm using a repro.  Looked for a NOS without any luck.

[jtfx6552]

I have the "original" template, prints the correct size as the windshield curve matches exactly. But... the holes do not match my original "factory stamped with antenna hole" fender. They are about a 1/4 off in the one direction, actual holes are 1/4" more to the hood than shown on the template, and the alignment hole seems more like 7/16" than 5/16".

Also, what is the best choice for a repop antenna? I can't find a usable original. Is the Scott Drake ok?

[Bob Gaines]

I see NOS originals on ebay at least twice a month. Here is one now . http://www.ebay.com/itm/272376258253?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT   . So if you don't want to pay the price go with a repro.  They are all about the same .  They all rattle .  Scott Drake is going to be assured of being the best of a bad repro. They have gone up in price as discussions of differences on forums like this and others has now educated many sellers to the uniqueness. You could most likely find used ones at many Mustang salvage yards .The problem is that they will not spend the time to pull them what with 19.95 price of many repros.  To compound the problem is that there are many repros out in salvage yards now to get mixed up with genuine ones.