question related to power antenna failure

[nwarky]

I know why the GM power antennas in our Turbo Regals typically fail when the plastic line connecting the motor to the metal mast breaks. What I can't understand is why the motor then begins to run nonstop. Last evening the antenna motor in my GN began to run as the car was just parked in the garage. I assume this occurred as the plastic line broke somewhere which to me implies that line is always under tension. But why does the motor then begin to run? Tough little motor after 26 plus years as it was probably running for at least 90 minutes before I heard the problem and disconnected the wires. I would just like to understand how this was designed. Thanks.

Dean

 

[salvageV6]

The shutoff switch is inside the antenna, they don't get activated when the cable breaks.

If you remember VHS tape machines when the tape breaks off after rewind you can see how they just ran and ran and ran......

Tension from the tape being stuck hit a switch to stop the motors.

Look for the factory wiring diagram it probably can explain it in better 80's terms.

 

[nwarky]

Thanks for the explanation!