Factory antenna is a long fender mast that catches branches. Replace with a short rubber 'stubby' (Stubby Antenna for Trucks, Bullet) or fully hidden under-dash unit.
The factory XJ antenna is 32" of fiberglass+chrome on a fender base. It works fine but is the first thing to break in a brushy trail. Options:
(1) Stubby replacement: 3-6" rubber antenna that screws onto the existing base. CravenSpeed Stubby ($25), AntennaX 3.5" ($15), or generic. Reception is reduced about 20% — fine for nearby stations, weak for distant. Stays trail-clean.
(2) Bullet-style metal stubby: same idea but billet aluminum. Looks cleaner with a body lift / fender flares.
(3) Hidden under-dash antenna: glass-mount or under-dash amplified antenna. Metra 44-UA200 ($25) or similar. Reception varies — windshield-mount works best. Full stealth.
(4) Folding rubber mast: full-length but with a flex joint at base. Forgives branches better than rigid.
Replacement of the factory base: pull the inner fender liner, the antenna base unscrews from the inner fender. If the cable is bad too, it routes from the base through the cowl, behind the dash, to the radio. Run a new RG-58 with a Motorola end and a Metra 40-CR10 adapter.
| Part | Vendor | Est. price |
|---|---|---|
| CravenSpeed Stubby antenna | CravenSpeed | ~$25 |
| AntennaX 3.5" rubber stubby | AntennaX | ~$12 |
| Metra 44-UA200 hidden amplified antenna | Metra | ~$30 |
Written and maintained by an AZ wheeler and driveway wrencher. Always cross-reference your factory service manual — modifications affect vehicle safety and warranty. Work at your own risk.