rxrom

iTrader: (2)

Hi. My 98 trans am radio sounds great when the engene is off. As soon as I start the car reception sucks

wssix99

iTrader: (5)

It could be bad electronics in the alternator. Alternators have allowances to reduce radio interference and sometimes, the components go bad.

Do you get a high pitched squeal/whine that goes up in pitch with engine RPM? Is it worse for AM radio across the entire band? (There will be more interference with AM radio, if its the alternator.)

rxrom

iTrader: (2)

My alternator is quiet. I thought it was an antenna problem. Is there something I can install to boost reception?

wssix99

iTrader: (5)

If it was an antenna problem, you'd have the same issue with the car on or off. If the trigger for the issue is the running of the car, I'd think the cause would be interference.

Maybe you have a cut in the shielding of the antenna wire?