Stuck Antenna ('02 4runner)

[covingtontundra]

The auto antenna on my '02 4runner is stuck in the up position. On turning the ignition on or off it makes an awful grinding noise for a few seconds (the antenna motor). I pulled out the plastic strip with teeth and everything looks OK. The antenna is stuck up so the radio works OK, so don't really need the auto up/down. Anyway to (easily) disable that motor so I don't have to hear it? Fuse?

It is out of warranty and dealer wants $230 to fix!

[wylcat]

try un pluging the power wire to the motor, the ant. wire should be separate so just leave that one connected.

[covingtontundra]

Thanks wylcat. I thought about that, but it is pretty hard to get to the motor wire harness (gotta remove the kick panel). Might be my only choice though.