Roof Rack?

[kazz330]

would the roof rack rails on my 2002 explorer affect my antenna reception? It has plastic sides and metal rails (I dont know if its steel or aluminum. im guessing steel).

['Doc]

Can they affect an antenna? Yes. Will they always adversely affect an antenna? No. I depends a lot on how close to those rails your antenna is situated. Within about a foot or so, and I'd have to guess that the antenna is affected in some way. How much, and exactly how, is sort of anyone's guess. If what you are hearing is sort of typical, I wouldn't worry about it much. Only way I know of to try out that 'typical' thingy is by using the same antenna/radio on a vehicle that doesn't have the luggage rack. Oh, that ought'a be easy, huh? Yeah, right. Or maybe removing the nearest 'rail'? Another one'a them 'yeah, right.' thingys . The only part I can be really sure of is that it isn't going to make any difference if those rails are steel or aluminum. (If they are made of platinum or gold, would you tell me where you part your Explorer at night? And the tag number?) The only really good place to mount an antenna in relation to a luggage rack is smak-dab in the middle of it. But, in that case, why have the luggage rack if you can't use it? Basically, it amounts to you are stuck with whatever you have. Just make the best of it.
- 'Doc


Don't you just love answers like that?

[kazz330]

actually it was a better response than im used to on other forums :D


lol so thanks doc!