I've got a U353 which I'm nearly done with, just going to re-assemble the case after a few minor repairs, and the VHF antenna wire internal to the cabinet (not fitted to my basket case earlier U353) has a spade connector on the end of it, but I can't see where it's supposed to go. It wasn't connected when I had it.
This is a Ferranti U1032 which I believe is the same radio. Ekco and Ferranti used the cabinet backnto support the wire aerial, the connect is via the two pin FM aerial socket using the plug provided. Just connect to one pin, I think it’s balanced so it doesn’t matter which, if I am wrong it will easily be noted.
photos of the back of my radio and a suitable plug. I used the plug to connect to an external dipole.
It may be your lucky day Andy, if you want the plug, PM me your address and I will post it. I am a bit busy at the moment and childminding next week but if you want it, it’s yours. The wire may not be the correct length but I am sure you can change it.
I had a scrap Ekco version, now passed on to another for spares, aerial in the card back like the Ferranti.
Easy way to check if there are holes in the back to take the wire, it was a very common way for Ekco/Ferranti to fit the VHF aerial. Ekco could have changed the build at some time to save a few pennies, not uncommon, or it’s been retro fitted by a repairer sometime in the last 50 years.
