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Old Oct 13, 2025 | 06:52 PM
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Default AM radio clicking

Why does my AM radio click only at speed?
Not at idle, not when I rev the engine.
Only after about 20-25 mph.
Some days more than others.
Odd
I am using resistor spark plugs.
Yes I'm an old fart and I listen to AM news and talk radio.
 
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Old Oct 13, 2025 | 09:07 PM
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That's almost certainly electrical noise from your tires. Static buildup from the tires rotating at speed discharges, causing the clicks on AM radio. It's a common issue. A static strap from your axle to the ground can often fix it.
 
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Old Oct 13, 2025 | 10:32 PM
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Originally Posted by Bass-M
That's almost certainly electrical noise from your tires. Static buildup from the tires rotating at speed discharges, causing the clicks on AM radio. It's a common issue. A static strap from your axle to the ground can often fix it.
Thank you, I'll try that!
I learn a lot here - never would have thought or considered that but it makes so much sense to what it's doing
 
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Old Oct 14, 2025 | 04:42 AM
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Something like this?


Each tire?
I really noticed the clicking and poping increase when I got new tires
Do I also need to better ground the engine to the frame with a wire as they are isolated with rubber?
Or the radio better grounded to the frame?

I remember seeing these on cars a long time ago - a strap draging the ground from the bumper (when bumpers were steel) or exhaust.
Haven't seen one one 40 years.
 

Last edited by Robertbc3141; Oct 14, 2025 at 07:12 AM.
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