>>Is replacing a radio antenna a major project<<

The following is pasted from the http://www.vanagain.com web site,

Specifically http://www.vanagain.com/Howtoantenna1.html

How-To remove an old antenna and install a new one on a Vanagon.
Real easy.
1. Buy new antenna.  I have aftermarket ones for $12 or VW ones for $35
(fully retractable).
2. Remove your grille and driver's side headlight assembly.
3. Remove the nut from the antenna base.
4. Pull antenna down and out bottom hole.
5. Cut wire off of old antenna right where it connects to the antenna.
(don't let this wire get pulled up into the body, keep it in your hand!)

6. Tape end of new antenna wire to cut end of old wire with duct tape,
etc. (now you can release the death grip).
7. Go inside van and pull out ashtray.
8. You should be able to unplug the antenna wire from the radio through
this hole.  If you are having problems try pulling the radio out a
little.
9.  Gently pull the old antenna wire out through the ashtray hole until
you get to the new end.
10.  Unwrap tape and plug new end into radio.
11. Put ashtray back in and push radio back into place.
12. Reinstall headlight assembly and grille.
13. Bandage hand from cuts received when reaching through ashtray hole
:)
14. Pat yourself on the back for a job well done!

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I used this method recently and it worked perfectly.

This information is also available in the vanagon.com archives.

-Al
87 Westy