Mercedes Benz repair: Mercedes Power antenna, antenna mast, power antenna

Question
QUESTION: The power antenna on my 1997 s-420 does not go up when radio is turned on. Any suggestions?

ANSWER: GREETINGS!
You want to check the fuse box first. Then if all the fuses are good , you want to listen to see if you hear the antenna when you cut on the switch. If you dont then it is more than likely the antenna motor. If you hear the motor and nothing happens, then you probably need a antenna mast. Thanks and i hope this helps.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I have a quick follow-up to your very helpful answer. Assuming it is the motor, is there any way I can raise the antenna and leave it up? I now get no reception whatsoever and would be happy to leave it  permanently up, if possible.

Answer
Greetings! you can raise the antenna by taking it loose or maybe even by getting a pair of pliers on the upper most part of the mast and pulling up on it. Be careful and not let the pliers slip and pop you! If you cant get a hold on it, you willhave to take it loose from the body and get it that way. while in there, look at the plug in and make sure it just hasnt came loose.Thanks and i hope this helps.Ricky