AM Static & Weak Reception - Continental

H. Lincoln Continental

1. Excessive AM Static - on strong stations, poor reception with fading under bridges or overpasses.

DIAGNOSTICS:
Perform the following to verify the presence of the above concern.

a. Tune to a weak AM radio station.

b. Note the reception performance on this station.

c. If condition is verified: Replace the ENTIRE antenna cable with one piece antenna cable kit (F1VY-18812-A).

2. Poor AM Reception - on strong stations, fading, engine noise, or interference.

^ Automatic Ride Control AM Interference on Weak Stations.

^ Anti-Theft System AM Interference on Weak Stations.

Perform the following to verify the presence of one or more of the above issues.

a. Ride Control AM Interference on Weak Stations:

^ Engine not running.

^ Tune in a weak AM radio station. (Refer to General Definition A. - AM Signal Issue
- Diagnostic Tips.)

^ Listen for a continual "buzz".

^ Turn off the Automatic Ride Control (the switch is in the trunk, on the left hand side, behind a removable panel in the trunk lining).

^ Verify service fix.


b. Anti-Theft System AM Interference on Weak Stations:

^ Engine not running.

^ Tune in a weak AM radio station.

^ Listen for a constant "buzz" that ceases when a door is opened.

SERVICE ACTION:

Perform the following checks to service noise cause.

1. Inspect the antenna cable connections for signs of damage or corrosion.

2. If the antenna connector is corroded, replace the antenna.

3. Check for possible water leaks or holes where water can enter from road splash. If found, seal holes where water entry is found.

4. Fill the antenna female connector with grease (F2AZ-19584-A).

5. Install the one piece, double shielded antenna cable (F1VY-18812-A). Route the cable down the right hand side of the vehicle from the radio to the antenna, beneath the carpeting.

NOTE:
DO NOT BUNDLE EXCESS CABLE LENGTH IN TIGHT BUNDLES AS THIS COULD DAMAGE THE CABLE AND ADVERSELY AFFECT RECEPTION PERFORMANCE. INSTEAD, SECURE CABLE AS NEEDED TO PREVENT RATTLES AND/OR DAMAGE WHEN INSTALLING TRIM.

6. Apply grease (F2AZ-19584-A) to the outside of the installed antenna cable connector at the antenna. This will prevent water entry into the antenna cable connector shell.