Radio Antennas

[ghotson]

I have a 1929 Pierce Arrow. I have recently installed an early '30's Philco radio and the "chicken wire" antenna in the roof doesn't give me as good reception as the radio is capable of. The gentleman who rebuilt my radio recommended installing an antenna that mounts on the side of the cowl. I am reluctant to drill holes to install it, especially if points will be deducted. On the other hand I believe that such an antenna was a common period accessory in the early '30's. Very few cars had a radio in 1929. What do you advise? Thanks.

You should go with a "runningboard antenna" a popular fitting from the inception of auto radios 'til about 1937-38. These are reproduced by a couple of suppliers, {don't have them handy but will try to post them} They are essentially rectangular aluminum loops that mount on the underside of the runningboard separated by porcelain {or now plastic} insulators. I will try to take a pic of my original one and post it if you wish.

[ronbarn]

You are right. If point deduction is a concern, the antenna your friend recommended would cost you some. I would suggest that you rig a good antenna with some sort of quick disconnect someplace on the car - get good radio and make is disappear for shows.