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[ Getting Started ]
20
[ Getting Started ]
21
Installing the Antenna
The optimum mounting location for the magnetic antenna is on the roof of the vehicle, with a
minimum unobstructed area of 12 inches by 12 inches, and exactly 6½ inches from the rear
roof edge of the vehicle (the length of the rubber antenna cable cover/tail). It is important to
avoid any obstructions that will block the SIRIUS signal, obstructions such as a roof rack,
a sunroof, roof mounted cargo containers, or other antennas. For convertible vehicles, the
antenna should be installed on the trunk lid.
For best performance, it is recommended that the antenna be installed with the rubber
antenna cable cover/tail. This rubber antenna cable cover/tail provides two benefits: first, it
positions the antenna the recommended distance from the rear window, rear door/hatch, or
trunk edge to give the antenna the best view of the sky. Secondly, it conceals and protects
the exposed antenna cable. The rubber antenna cable cover/tail has adhesive strips that hold
it securely in place.
The following illustrations show the recommended mounting locations of the antenna for
several types of vehicles. (Figure 9) Follow these recommendations for best performance from
the antenna.
Sedan/Coupe. Mount the antenna along the rear centerline of the vehicle roof, located at the
rear of the roof near the rear window.
Pickup Truck. Mount the antenna along the rear centerline of the cab roof, located at the rear
of the roof near the rear window.
SUV/Mini-Van. Mount the antenna along the rear centerline of the vehicle roof, located at the
rear of the roof near the rear door/hatch.
Figure 9Figure 9
Convertible. Mount the antenna along the centerline of the trunk lid, with the rubber antenna
cable cover/tail directed toward the rear window.
When you have selected a suitable mounting location, clean the area where the antenna and
rubber antenna cable cover/tail will be mounted with the supplied alcohol swab.
Rubber Antenna
Cover/Tail
Protective
Strips
Adhesive
Strain
Relief
Cable
Connect the rubber antenna cable cover/tail to the antenna cable, making sure that the strain-
relief on the antenna sits into the rubber antenna cable cover/tail groove. (Figure 10) Route
the antenna cable through the wire channel in the rubber antenna cable cover/tail. Do not
remove the adhesive strips yet.
Temporarily position the antenna and rubber antenna cable cover/tail in the selected mounting
area and route the cable from the antenna to the vehicle’s interior by tucking it underneath the
rubber molding around rear window, as shown in Figure 11.
Route the cable from the lowest point of the rear window into the trunk. Take advantage of
any existing cable channels or wiring conduits. For SUVs, mini-vans and 5-door vehicles, bring
the cable into the vehicle under the rubber molding for the tailgate, and continue under the
interior trim.
From the trunk, or rear of the vehicle, route the cable around the passenger compartment and
to the front of the vehicle, to the receiver. Take care not pull the cable across sharp edges
that could damage it, and keep it away from areas where it might entangle feet. Coil any
Figure 10Figure 10
Figure 11Figure 11