appearance. The appearance of darker areas or spots indicates a more severe condition which
may lead to corrosion.
Inspecting the Antenna Base and Whip
1. Create a maintenance schedule and look for the following.
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Oxidation, corrosion, and dirt on the antenna base.
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Oxidation, corrosion, and dirt in or on the whip.
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Missing or damaged contact element in the whip.
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Loose or damaged coax cable at the antenna base.
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Missing or damaged O-ring gasket.
2. Use a good contact cleaner to clean the area if oxidation or corrosion is found. Follow-up
with a good conductive protectant. Contact Itron Support Service if you need any assistance.
3. Periodically check that both set screws are tight by trying to rotate the whip in the spring, and
by twisting and rocking the spring on the load coil. If the whip is loose, loosen the top set
screw enough to ensure that the whip is fully seated in the spring, then tighten the set screw.
If the spring is loose, ensure that the spring is seated flush on the load coil and tighten the
bottom set screw.
Cleaning the Antenna
Regular cleaning is recommended to maintain both the performance and the appearance of your
omni-directional RF antenna.
■
Clean the antenna in the same manner as your vehicle. Apply a quality car wax to the
antenna and base to help protect the finish and extend the life of the antenna.
Replacing the Antenna Gasket
Inspect the gasket regularly to verify that it is intact, free from debris, and properly seals the
antenna and base. To maintain the integrity and performance of the antenna, Itron recommends
that you replace the gasket located in the antenna base minimally once a year.
For more information about ordering the gasket, log on to Itron Access or contact Itron Support
Services at 1-877-487-6602. The replacement gasket part number is MSE-0210-001, which
includes six gaskets.
Replacing the Antenna Gasket
1. Turn the antenna counter-clockwise to remove it from the base.
2. Remove the gasket (1) from the base (2).
07 May 2020
815-0207-00 REV 000
Itron, Inc. Page 43 of 44
Vehicle Preparation and Hardware Installation Guide
4 Mobile Collector System Maintenance