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126 Posts
Anyone know how to install an external GPS antenna on the Pilot (or any similar vehicle for that matter)? I've purchased an aftermarket GPS Navigation system (Garmin StreetPilot III Deluxe).....should be delivered any minute now. Assuming it loses the satellite lock with it's small antenna that sits in the front window attached to the unit, (it'll often be blocked by the vehicle itself) I'd like to install an external antenna on the roof. My initial thoughts were to put it near the back of the Pilot, over the rear door. However, I'm ordering a Honda (or Thule) Roof Box, and I'm guessing that would cover up the antenna, or at least block it worse that it was in the front window. I don't plan on using the Roof Box often, but when I am using it, I'm sure those are the times I'll definitely want GPS Navigation as well. I'm thinking the "cleanest" install (but also most scary), would be to install it on the roof near the front. I'd think you'd have to drill a hole in the top of the roof to run the cable, then seal it up again. Ideally I'd like to not have to drill into my precious Pilot. If you do mount it near the rear door, do you just run the cable underneath the seal? And I guess then I'd have to figure out a way to run the cable inside the vehicle as well. I did find one company that made a GPS repeater antenna. You'd still mount the antenna on the roof, and run the cable inside the car until you found a power supply. Luckily the Pilot has DC power access in the rear. Then you stick the repeater unit to the window (suction cup). As far as the StreetPilot (or any other GPS nav unit sitting on the dash), it just continues to use it's original antenna. Looking for suggestions here. Thanks.
P.S. If if find the internal antenna never loses signal, this is all mute. However, I doubt that will be the case.
P.S. If if find the internal antenna never loses signal, this is all mute. However, I doubt that will be the case.