GME ABL005 Lead and Plug Assembly Suits AE409L

Replacement Base and Lead Assembly for the GME AE409L Fold-Down UHF Antenna Anodised, Folding Mechanism, 4.5m Low-Loss Coax

Product Overview

The GME ABL005 is a genuine replacement base assembly and coaxial lead for the GME AE409L fold-down style UHF CB antenna. The assembly replicates the original AE409L base including the anodised finish and the unique folding mechanism that allows the antenna to be folded flat with 4.5 metres of low-loss coaxial cable.

The AE409L is a fold-down UHF antenna designed to be lowered when low-clearance situations are encountered car parks, garages, wash bays, and overhead obstacles. The folding mechanism in the base assembly is the key component that enables this function, and the ABL005 provides a genuine replacement for this assembly when required.

The thread specification is 5/8" UNEF 24 TPI unique to this fold-down base design and not interchangeable with the 5/16" TPI standard (AB001, ABL001) or BSW thread (ABL002) used in other GME antenna products.

Note: The cable plug/connector type is not confirmed in the available supplier data. Confirm the connector specification with GME before purchasing.

Features & Benefits

• AE409L fold-down antenna specific — genuine replacement base and lead for the GME AE409L, including the folding mechanism
• Unique folding mechanism — the base assembly contains the fold-down pivot that allows the AE409L antenna whip to be lowered flat; this mechanism is retained in the ABL005 replacement
• Anodised finish — anodised aluminium construction provides corrosion resistance and a durable surface finish
• 5/8" UNEF 24 TPI thread — the specific thread standard for the AE409L fold-down base; not compatible with 5/16" TPI or BSW antenna whips
• 4.5m low-loss coaxial cable — standard lead length for reliable signal routing in most vehicle installations

Technical Specs

Compatible With / Goes Well With

• GME AE409L fold-down UHF CB antenna only — not a universal base
• GME UHF CB radios — confirm connector type with GME before purchasing

Weight

Not specified

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a fold-down antenna and when is it useful?

A fold-down antenna has a hinged base that allows the whip element to be lowered to a near-horizontal position when not in use or when height clearance is an issue. This is particularly useful for drivers who regularly encounter low-clearance garages, car wash bays, underpasses, or overhead obstacles that a fully upright UHF antenna would contact. The AE409L's fold-down mechanism is contained in the base assembly, which the ABL005 replaces.

What is 5/8" UNEF 24 TPI and is it compatible with other antennas?

5/8" UNEF 24 TPI is a Unified National Extra Fine thread at 24 threads per inch — the specific thread specification used in the AE409L fold-down base assembly. It is not compatible with the 5/16" TPI thread standard used in most other GME antenna bases (AB001, AB406, ABL001), nor with the BSW thread used in the ABL002 series. Only AE409L-compatible whip antennas using the 5/8" UNEF 24 TPI thread will fit this base.

What does the anodised finish provide?

Anodising is an electrochemical process that creates a hardened, corrosion-resistant oxide layer on the aluminium surface. It provides better durability and corrosion resistance than bare aluminium, particularly in UV-exposed and outdoor environments, while keeping the component lightweight.

What connector does the lead terminate with?

The connector type at the radio end of the cable is not confirmed in the available supplier data. Confirm with GME or your supplier before purchasing to ensure it matches your radio's antenna input type.

Is the ABL005 suitable as a universal fold-down base for other antennas?

No — the ABL005 is specifically designed for the GME AE409L fold-down UHF antenna. The 5/8" UNEF 24 TPI thread, folding mechanism geometry, and electrical specification are matched to the AE409L. It is not a universal fold-down base and is not compatible with other antenna models or thread types.