getting a new head unit and XM antenna installed DIY this coming weekend. I am trying to keep it out of wind, sun, rain or snow. Would mounting it on the windshield or on dash works as well?

 

No, they are designed to have clear access to the sky. Putting it on the dash restricts line of site to the satellites since the roof will now be in the way. The antenna is weather proof and designed to be mounted outside. It will work on the dash but you will get more drop outs mounting it there.

 

Thanks, any of you have DIY antenna installation , esp. routing of the wire, mind sharing the easiest, least painful route?

 

While I don't have an AM antenna I ran my GPS antenna through the grommet for the hatch. Antenna mounted right at the rear of the roof and the wire goes straight down between the hatch and roof and into the grommet. You do need to partially drop the headliner to get access to it and to run the wire but it was the cleanest look in my opinion.