just get the new gasket. put it in the hottest water you can stand, then quickly put it over the base and you can stretch it to fit under the base. the gasket yoou are taking about just cleans up the look, and is not a seal to prevent water coming in - the rubber o-ring does that, and is installed under the headliner.

 

I never heard of this method but I'll give it a try. I need to replace mine and it sounds a lot easier than pulling the headliner down.

 

i dont have a headliner leak. it just looks ugly without the gasket.

 

Yes you can just order just the OEM seal kit we offer and no base, we do not recommend the boil and stretch method.

Please see this check out this DIY:

http://www.passatworld.com/forums/6...com/forums/60-mobile-electronics/300929-diy-antenna-replacement-b5-5-wagon.html

 

Far be it from me to go against ECS (love your timing belt & brake kits!), but I'd also recommend this supplier for the gaskets:

Passat Antenna

I've been buying from them for 5 years or more and have installed the gaskets on my 2000 Passat, 2002 New Beetle, and 2007 Rabbit. In all cases, installed using the boil & stretch method without a failure during installation. I also use a toothpick to tuck everything into place after it's in the slot. No headliner removal, no muss, no fuss.

 

Got mine off ebay for $10 shipped

 

I've done a couple by the heat-and-stretch method. You have to be a little careful not to get the edges rolled under, but it works, and is far, far less trouble than the "right" way. And I say that as a stickler for doing things right.

 

I have used the heat and stretch method 3 times on different Passats. Works fine.
Would never consider pulling the headliner down to do this change.
Far too much effort and chances of plastic clips ect breaking.
ECS you need to step up and recommend this method. There is plenty of evidence that it works fine.

 

+1 :thumbup:

 

Yes the boil method can be done when installing just the outer seal, we recommend that you replace everything at once (locking nut and o-ring)

Andy