Audio Systems: AM static noise, antenna wire, static noise

Question
91 F250 Pick-up Diesel
I have a lot of static noise while trying to listen on the AM part of the radio. I find that sometimes it helps if I put the interior lights on.

Answer
Try checking the antenna wiring.  See if you can trace the cable from the antenna to the connection on the back of the radio.  Pull the antenna wire out of the back and reinsert it a few times. This will break through the corrosion that may have built up on the plug and jack.  Then, check the antenna end of the cable. Sometimes there is a poor ground.  Even the antenna ground connection sometimes gets rusted out.  Wiggle the antenna wire and antenna in search of the bad places.

For an older vehicle, the above procedure will almost always get it back to normal.

Of course, if you are a far distance from the transmitting station it may be normal reception.  If you have noticed a deterioration under similar listening conditions over time then it is more likely the above explanation will help the situation.

Hope this helps.
C