Shark Fin Antenna ...Solar Roof ...oops

Did you send it back? I'd be willing to take it off your hands.

 

Does it look like this? picture-1
ken1784 found this picture-2: a Japanese shop original shark fin antenna
VABRIUS (ZVW30)

 

i was looking into the shark fin antenna. good thing i saw this posting. thanks!

 

I actually think that the standard Visual Garage shark fin antenna looks fine intruding onto the solar roof.

 

You can fit a shark fin to a Gen 3 Prius with solar roof...I already have done it on my car, and others.

The fin must be placed as far back as possible, without touching the antenna base on the roof. When it is stuck down as per directions in this position, it will clear the solar panels easily....however, the curvature of the roof is why Visual Garage does not recommend fitting them.

When the fin is (carefully) fitted as above, the front point will sit about 2 mm up because of the roof curvature. Using some clear silicone adhesive in a syringe, carefully inject it into the gap around the front and let dry for a few hours before driving or getting the car wet. You will hardly notice the sealant there, and the fin will be both adhered to the roof and waterproofed as well. The silicone will do no damage to either the fin or the paint on the car, and the fin can still be (carefully) removed at any time if required.

 

Be sure to not obscure any of the solar panel (like in the red one above). Blocking just the smallest area of a solar panel can severely limit the power output.

 

what color is the fin you received?

 

Keep in mind - I think the general consensus is the radio has poor reception. The fin is/may be a bit worse (as reported) - so if reception is an issue - these are not a good choice.

It seems these would work OK in the heart of a major market...

 

I noticed that the one for sale through Prius Chat said it was not compatible with the solar roof.

So I contacted Visual Garage to verify that it would not fit. They have a new version which I purchased. Here is the e-mail they sent me:

Thanks for your inquiry!
Our newly pre-released Mark II antenna is compatible with your 2010 Prius with the Solar Sunroof. For more details, pictures and how to order, pleae see the email below.

Regards,
Arthur

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This new shark fin antenna was developed specifically for vehicles that have an AM/FM rear-roof whip antenna and a Sirius/XM/OnStar/GPS chip-set antenna integrated into the larger antenna base. Our Mark II antenna will allow you to replace the whip portion of your AM/FM antenna and cover the entire large antenna base on your roof to give it a clean look. Installing this antenna will not hinder the operation of your Sirius/XM/OnStar/GPS chip-set antennas that are integrated into your antenna base. Please click the following links for some sample pictures of our new shark fin antenna:

We are happy to announce that we can continue to offer our Mark II version at the same price as our Mark I version, currently priced at $69USD (including painting to your OEM color as usual), plus shipping/handling for $12USD to USA/Canada or $28USD to International locations (including tracking number & insurance).

To place an order, please send an email to and provide the information below, and a Paypal invoice for ordering will be sent to you shortly afterwards . You will be able to pay via Paypal account, eCheck and most major credit cards. To find your color code, please visit this page:

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Subject: Order - VG Shark Fin Antenna Mark II

Qty x Year, Make, Model, Style - Color Code / Color Name
(example: Qty: 1 x 2009 Pontiac G8 4-Dr Sedan - WA690F / Phantom Metallic)

Mailing Address

I had to remove the links because this is my first post and it says you have to make 5 posts before it will allow it. Hope this information helps.

Preferred billing/Paypal email Address

 

Man, $80
I like the Shark Fin but not crazy about it.
Thanks for the info.

 

Looks promising. Please post your impressions after you install. A number of folks reported that the older version made the radio reception even worse (it that's possible).

 

Well I ended up with a III and solar roof today so I'm if someone already ordered the updated shark fin, please post and let us know how it fits. And how radio reception is because the OEM is pretty bad haha

 

I have had my Mark II version on for a few weeks. I like the look of it. The fin touches up to the gap right before the solar panel. I don't really listen to the radio much so I can't say if the signal sounds worse than before.

This is the only close up shot I have right now. I can take some additional shots tomorrow if you guys want.

 

Hmm looks good man. I'll probably be ordering mine later this week.