Monday 22 August 2016

Original Shark Fin Retrofitted on Golf 7

Shark Fin Retrofitting on Golf 7 Trendline

After the Discovery Pro retrofitting, an original roof mounted GSP antenna is absolutely necessary for good GSP reception.  We fitted the original new Volkswagen shark fin which is used on all the MQB chassis vehicles such as the Golf 7, Passat, Touran and Tiguan. 

Original VW Golf 7 GPS antenna 
We have done many retrofit before using the older shark fin antenna which was a simple 15 mm x 15 mm square hole. However, on the new Golf 7, a really big odd shape hole needs to be cut onto the roof.  This is not for those with weak stomach. 

Not for the weak stomach owner ! 

The hole is cut using a template of the antenna. The odd hole is really odd. It is not evenly shaped and not centrally aligned. Had to compare the actual antenna to the marked hole before proceeding with the actual cutting. 

The roof lining must be lowered partially to allow access to the underside where the antenna must be secured.  That also process requires removing most of the trims at the hatch which is hindering the roof lining lowering. 

I approached the job with an opened mind that if everything fails, I would patch up the hole, weld it up and respray the whole roof at most ! 

However, work proceeded successfully and the odd shaped hole was cut nicely. I am about 95% satisfied. Could have done a better job. Nevertheless, the antenna fitted nicely, secured properly and when tightened from the underside the antenna lock in 100% ! 

This is a new designed antenna anchor. The Audi A5 antenna looks similar but is secured with a simple nut. The fit was not as solid though. The single nut holding the antenna down on a slightly curved roof may be the cause. This new anchoring method is really solidly mounted. 

The hole is located per original position and is centrally located under the roof

Cannot be happier with the GPS reception. Even when parked at the 2nd floor car park with out 10% viewing of the sky, the reception was 3/12 satellite. 

The new GPS antenna looks more sleek than the older fin ! 


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