Washed the car for the first time today and found "black stuff" coming off the antenna. Having read many postings over the past month, I do know that a lack of lubrication on the antenna leads to it not working so well. Therefore, what is the lube that should be used on this and what, every time I wash it?

 

Every few months should be sufficient. I do mine once a year, but after doing the antenna mod, mine is down 95% of the time. Use silicone spray rather than WD40 so you don't attract extra grit.

 

+1 on the silicone spray. Wipe it down with a clean rag first obviously.

 

+1 on avoiding dust accumulation.

I just wipe mine down (every few months or so) with a rag wet with paint thinner / turpentine. When I bought the car, the antenna did this noticeable chatter-thing for the last 6 to 8 inches of retraction. This has significantly improved since then. It still does a little chattering, but seems to be continually improving.

 

Silicone Spray Caution:


After wiping the antenna down with spirits, use a soft cloth but spray your CLOTH with the silicone spray and rub the antenna...DO NOT DIRECTLY SPRAY THE ANTENNA SHAFT!

Silicone has a tendency to 'gum-up' over time if too much is used, and could make your problem even worse than when you first started.