Ground Strap for Power Antenna

[Steven A.]

I'm finally installing a power antenna in my '66 Coupe and had a question about where to attach the solid copper ground strap. The diagram that came with the "instructions" shows the strap curving back on itself so that both ends are attached to the lower bolt of the front mounting bracket. This is clearly wrong. I'm assuming the ground is necessary to complete the electrical circuit for the antenna, so I want to get it right. Can anyone tell me the two attachment points for this? Thanks.

[John H.]

Re: Ground Strap for Power Antenna

Steven -

If the "instructions" is a copy of the A.I.M. sheet, View "A" shows the copper strap attached to the side of the frame just forward of the #4 body mount, with a star washer between the strap and the frame (see photo below).

[Steven A.]

Re: Ground Strap for Power Antenna

Thanks, John. Where does the other end attach?

PS. Nice article in Corvette Enthusiast regarding AO Smith bodies on midyears.

[Wayne M.]

Here's where other end attaches

1965 AIM UPC Sheet B2 is a bit confusing; the strap really doesn't fold back on itself -- picture the dotted part of the strap as passing UNDER the P-antenna mount bracket. The strap passes over the rear body mount then bolts to the lower of the two bracket bolts. This pic was taken shooting straight up.

Notice the difference of fiberglass panel colors in the picture - this is on a really late 1965.