We are looking for a XM Direct Tuner for this radio for a 99 ford explorer and can not find one.

If you are getting the same "check antenna" message with two different antennas, it is likely that the tuner itself is the problem. You can get just the mini tuner here:

http://www.tss-radio.com/products/xm-mini-tuner-replacement-home-dock


As far as the two plug connection, there are adapters available. Its likely a dual fakra connection, though I don't know for sure. At any rate, this is one adapter available. (I would call to confirm)
http://www.tss-radio.com/products/sirius-dual-to-single-antenna-adapter

Many/most of the original factory radios with the 'XM' button already have the tuner in them. While outside (not inside a garage or under trees) Press the "XM" button then see if you can get channel 1, or channel 247, or channel 0. Channel 1 is free previews, channel 247 is free weather, and Channel 0 is the serial number of the radio. IF you have these 3 channels then all you have to do is call 1-800-XM-RADIO with the serial number from channel zero. Leave the radio on channel 1 for 30 minutes after calling, and you should then be activated. Let me know if you have more questions.

You can try asking for help on www.XM411.com in the technical section - you might have some luck there, or at least get info from other XM owners. good luck!

idk

You best bet - if you can get to the rear of the XM tuner unit, is to temporarily connect a magnetic-mount XM antenna and see if it works. A bad antenna usually says "check antenna" - not loading could be a good antenna with a bad location. I would try the little XM antenna by itself, then go from there. $20 is a lot cheaper than $500. Let me know how it works out.

well that could be like the problem i am having. you need to do it on windows xp it will only work with windows xp

Got this off the crutchfiel web site.

Item #700XMSON1 $129.98 This XM Direct 2 package includes everything you need to add XM Satellite Radio to your compatible Sony receiver: an XM Mini-Tuner, a CNP2000UC universal adapter, and a Sony connector cable. The Mini-Tuner connects to the universal adapter, then you use the connector cable to hook up the adapter to your Sony receiver.
Use your home computer to program the universal adapter for your Sony receiver — you can reprogram this adapter to work with another brand in the future. Once connected, you'll be able to change channels and see programming information on your stereo's display. You can also use the included XM Mini-Tuner with your XM-ready home receiver or in another vehicle with a compatible dock.
A computer running Windows XP and Internet Explorer is required. The unit is not compatible with Windows Vista.
Note: A subscription to XM is also required — learn about XM's programming. Satellite radio service is available only within Canada and the lower 48 states — not available in Hawaii or U.S. territories. Portable reception may vary by location. If you have questions about the proposed XM/SIRIUS merger, read the XM Customer Promise. To view this file, you will need the Adobe Acrobat PDF reader.

http://mobile.audiovox.com/xmdirect/xmdirect2.html

Resetting the head unit will make it look for anything that is connected to it recently or even already is for a long time. Make sure your head unit's memory cable is constant power (direct to battery) to retain in its memory that the xmdirect2 unit is already connected. There must be a loose cable when it is not recognized as a source like the power cable from the adapter which should be on constant power. You should hear a click sound on the xmdirect2 module whenever you turn to xm source on the radio. The CC tech that was actually solved the problem by chance if he couldn't explain this to you. Loosing signal is different

On the adapter cable if there is a separate cable for power connect the positive directly to battery power as opposed to ignition. The memory resides on the xmdirect2 module not on the head unit.