Ford Explorer: Lost AM reception

Here's an unhappy development: My '97 XLT with the factory AM/FM/cassette is
suddenly getting virtually zero AM radio reception -- but only when the it's
running. When the engine's not running and I flip the ignition to Accessory,
AM reception is fine. FM reception is always dandy. Antenna mast is nice and
snug. Any thoughts on the cause and potential fix? Thanks.

"Mags" <com> wrote in message
news:supernews.com... 
is 
it's 
Accessory, 
and 
I experienced same problem with radio in a 1997 Mountaineer. The AM
reception severely deteriorated over a four-year period to the point that AM
band was practically useless when car was running. Dealer attempted to
repair under ESP coverage, including a TSB fix to correct for fuel pump
interference. It did not solve the problem.

Eventually I queried a technician at an independent Ford-authorized
electronics installer when I took the vehicle in to get the remote-entry
system repaired.
This person immediately knew what the problem was; apparently there was/is a
corrosion problem that affects the antenna connections on this era
"explorer-class"
vehicles. I ended up having to go back to the dealer as there was an open
ESP repair order;
however, service advisor called installer and got low-down on what needed to
be done and/or replaced.

The AM reception improved to almost "new" quality; however, as luck would
have it, the dealer technican failed to secure a strap or harness behind the
radio that resulted in a constant rattle while vehicle was in motion. Also,
the fix turned out not to be permanent as the AM reception had deteriorated
again
by the time I traded in the vehicle 10 months later.

Good luck!

Bill Lav
2002 Explorer XLT