This is actually a fairly easy job. Best way is to remove the front
grill, and the left front headlight. You'll also want to remove the
instrument cluster (no need to remove the rest of the dash.)  Check to
see if you have the lower section from a previous antenna still
installed. If you do, you'll want to get that out. Once you have it
installed, the little flat keys are used to pull the antenna shaft out
when you have it fully lowered.

On Dec 18, 2004, at 3:22 PM, Detroit Bus wrote:

> I just received my new antenna and it comes with two little flat
> "keys" and no instructions whatsoever. It is a complete unit with a
> cord that plugs into the back of the radio. Is there a reasonably
> quick way to install this? An initial review of the situation (and
> research in Bentley) suggests that I have to remove the
> dashboard/instrument panel. There is also an alarming bit about
> "drilling out" some steering column bolts...furthermore, I can't even
> see where the antenna plugs into the radio (i think on the driver
> side?) All this just to replace the antenna? I know Vanagons are
> complicated in places, but ...??
>