Television Antenna Crank ...... Any mod's?

[OurJayco]

My wife and I went camping over the 4th of July weekend. I went to put the antenna up and the handle came off. I put the handle back on and used an allen wrench to tighten the set screw. At the end of our camping weekend, I put the antenna down and the handle came off again. I see the plastic has cracked and I am not able to use that handle any more. I take a socket and wrench to lower the antenna and get the trailer home.
Here are my questions for you fabulous folks:

1) Has any of you made any modifications to the antenna handle? If so, what was it?
2) I intend to replace the handle before we head out again next weekend. Is there a "heavy duty handle" that replaces the plastic one?
3) Should I replace just the handle or the entire assembly? The shaft is still good, so I would rather replace just the handle.

Thanks for your input and suggestions. I can't wait to hear what mod's have been made on the antenna handle!!!

[troutslayer]

Sorry...no mod but I heard that lubricating the shaft and gears make it operate easier thereby creating less stress on the handle.

[exjay1]

Never use the antenna so couldn't offer any advise. I'd agree with the above and replace the handle and ensure the crank assembly is well lubed.

[Threebutchers]

If it's a Winegard - I attached the manufacturers lubricating instructions. Personally, I use spray silicone for the base and shaft rubber o-ring seals.....and white lithium grease for the gears.

[Seann45]

The replacement parts I have seen are all white metal... a little better than plastic..

[norty1]

Only mod I have ever seen is a hanging tag to remind you to crank it down.

I did modify the wingman attachment so I had clearance on the roof to use it. Had to cut 3 inches off the end of it. Seems to work fine without it.

[Bearberry]

Originally Posted by Threebutchers

If it's a Winegard - I attached the manufacturers lubricating instructions. Personally, I use spray silicone for the base and shaft rubber o-ring seals.....and white lithium grease for the gears.

Attachment 9076 Attachment 9077

Thank you this is very helpful to us! Our used Jayco didn't come with it's manual. It's tough to crank our antenna. Now we know it needs lubrication!!
~Bearberry