So I'm trying to replace my dead power antenna. I purchased a 'universal' antenna from ebay that is advertised as compatible with the XK8. Mostly it is. I have the unit bolted in place and it fits quite well. I had to modify the mounting bracket at the bottom of the unit to clear the drain hole in the new antenna but that was a minor detail. But the real headache is the antenna cable connector. Does anyone know what the connector type is or where I can get an antenna adapter? See connector image below.

 

Why not just get a good-used aerial assy and install it complete.

They are all the same from the early cars as well as the X308 sedans.

 

Because there's no way to know if a used assembly is 'good' until after you purchase and install it. And used electrical components from salvage yards generally have a 'no return' policy.

I've also found that for $400 or $500 I can purchase a new unit. But that's a pretty steep solution to what should be a low budget problem.

Somehow I'll get this universal unit sorted out. But I'd prefer not to cut the wiring in the car in order to install it. Just my preference.

Thanks for the suggestion though.

 

I cut the connector off the old antenna, with a couple of inches of the cable ,and did a solder splice to the new antenna cable. This way, should you ever want to go back to the old style, your car's mating connector will be the same. I tried to find the proper connector, but could not find one that would fit the Jag.

 

I came to that conclusion while puzzling over things this weekend. I guess I was too obtuse to see it at first. Maybe I just hate to make home-made parts when 'professionally made parts are available. Especially cheaply.

Anyway, for future reference, I put in a call for help the the guys at Incartec.co.uk and they had the answer. They actually knew what the connector is called: Raku RAST 2. I did a web search and for less than $10 you can buy an adapter cable with this connector and a standard motorola connector. Yea!

A female motorola connector end cost about the same as the adapter cable so I can go either way.