63 Antenna Installation Timing Question

[Greg S.]

I'm nearing completion of my frame off restoration and as I get ready to once again mate the body with the frame I started to wonder what items absolutely should be installed on the body prior to the drop.

One item that concerns me is the antenna. I'd like to install the antenna after the body is on. With the gas tank installed is it possible to install the antenna or do I need to take the tank out for extra clearance? I don't have the exhaust/mufflers in the way.

If anyone has a list of other items that should absolutely must/should be installed prior to the drop please list them out.

Thanks for your help as usual.

[Russ S.]

Re: 63 Antenna Installation Timing Question

Installing the antenna after body drop is just fine as long as it is done before the exhaust system. BTW the exhaust system should never be installed on the chassis before body drop as the mufflers interfear with the body during drop.

[Alan D.]

Re: 63 Antenna Installation Timing Question

When installing the antenna bracket pay attention to the AIM especially when it comes to the washers. Know that some of the bolts do not call for washers however the repo houses have pictures with washers, that's incorrect.
Just a hint for later, take a picture of AIM and keep with judging guide.

[John H.]

Re: 63 Antenna Installation Timing Question

BTW the exhaust system should never be installed on the chassis before body drop as the mufflers interfear with the body during drop.

Russ -

If you look closely at the body drop photo below, you'll see the toggled horizontal "come-along" fixture we used in the plant at body drop to pull the mufflers together by the outlets so they'd clear the quarter panels; that's also why the bottom edge at the rear of the quarter panels are "scalloped" locally, to clear the seams at the rear of the mufflers.

[John D.]

Re: 63 Antenna Installation Timing Question

When my 63 was first re-restored it had a bogus antenna on it bought from Chevy in the old days. After I got dinged at a show I picked up a NOS correct antenna.
They say it can't be done but my buddy and I installed the NOS antenna without removing or moving the exhaust system. JD

[Russ S.]

Re: 63 Antenna Installation Timing Question

Russ -

If you look closely at the body drop photo below, you'll see the toggled horizontal "come-along" fixture we used in the plant at body drop to pull the mufflers together by the outlets so they'd clear the quarter panels; that's also why the bottom edge at the rear of the quarter panels are "scalloped" locally, to clear the seams at the rear of the mufflers.

John, Was this done with center clamps and rear hangers tightened ?

[Stuart F.]

Re: 63 Antenna Installation Timing Question

I changed mine back in about 1976 and I know I didn't remove the mufflers either, but I believe I did have the spare tub out to clean it and refirb. I don't recall that it was easy, but then what is on a Vette. I also ran a new cable then.

Stu Fox

[John H.]

Re: 63 Antenna Installation Timing Question

John, Was this done with center clamps and rear hangers tightened ?

Russ -

Yes, it was - the entire exhaust system was buttoned-up except for adding the bright tailpipe extensions.

[Gerald L.]

Re: 63 Antenna Installation Timing Question

If an antenna is replaced when the exhaust is in place is it imperative the car be on a lift, or can I do this on my back? Other suggestions?

[Joe R.]

Re: 63 Antenna Installation Timing Question

Installing an antenna after the body drop WITH the exhaust system in place is no big deal. Even the 65-66 power antenna can be installed laying on your back.
I have never had the advantage of having a lift in my garage so I have installed a dozen or so with no problems other than a few skinned knuckles.
Believe it or not the engineers designed this vehicle so it could be serviced without complete disassembly.
GM dealers may have had to hire a midget in some cases but that was just part of the deal.

JR

[Gerald L.]

Re: 63 Antenna Installation Timing Question

Joe, your advice is very much appreciated. Gerry

[Gerald L.]

Re: 63 Antenna Installation Timing Question

Joe, not only is your advise appreciated but 'spot on'. Another job done. Never thought you could slide the gas tank to increase access via the the tank dimple. Was a straightforward one night job. Thanks. Gerry