The radio antenna on your Dodge Dakota allows you to get reception of AM and FM radio stations. Unfortunately, your antenna is perched in a precariously susceptible position to road hazards and car washes. If your original antenna ever gets broken -- or if you simply want to upgrade to an aftermarket antenna -- you can do so easily enough.
Pop the hood on your Dakota and remove your truck's negative battery cable, with your socket set.
Loosen and remove your old antenna mast.
Jack up the passenger side of your Dodge Dakota -- and place a jack stand under your frame -- to secure it. Remove the lug nuts and pull the tire. This will give you room to work.
Loosen and remove the front passenger-side wheel well liner. Unscrew them with your screwdriver. This will give you access. Unplug the old antenna wire from the antenna motor.
Connect the new antenna wire to the antenna motor by hand. Hold the antenna in place, and remount it with the retaining bolt.
Replace your wheel well liner -- put your tire back on, and tighten it down. Lower your vehicle from the jack, and re-attach your negative battery terminal.
