Replacing Radio Unit

[bvteachey]

So I want to upgrade the sound in my 79.... It still has the stock radio, and I really want to keep that look on the inside. I was thinking of mounting an aftermarket head unit in the console, or building a box to put on the floor in front of the console. Has anyone tried this? Is there any way to run both radios, or at least allow the stock one to still be functional?

 

[Broncobill78]

I've never seen *that* particular mod done but I've seen guys put a head unit in the glove box while keeping the stock radio in the dash. If you're interested there's a company Custom Autosound that makes stock radios with modern innards (AM/FM, amplified, MP3 compatable, CD changer, etc) which sounds like pretty much what you're looking for. They cater to guys who want it to look dead-nuts stock but want it to sound modern with modern conveniences. They also sell custom "hidden" radios as well if you want to go that route. Might well be other companies doing something similar but these are the guys I know about.

http://www.casmfg.com/

Here's the Ford page:

http://www.casmfg.com/Ford_Radios.htm

 

[kingbronco]

I didn't want to cut the dash or support for the radio so I made a custom mount for my new head unit



http://www.supermotors.net/getfile/725812/...ze/hpim0463.jpg

 

[bvteachey]

Is a wiring adapter needed to hook up an aftermarket head unit in these trucks? If so where can you find one?

 

[Foul Al]

Is a wiring adapter needed to hook up an aftermarket head unit in these trucks? If so where can you find one?

the only thing you might need is an antenna line splitter. ( hope that came across as it sounded in my head ) as for the new radio, you will need to locate a keyed power source,( you can and shoulod use this for the amp remote/ power antenna-blue wire, a constant power source( for the memory) , a good ground and i think you'll need to tap into the dimmer switch for the radios lights to function in unison with the other interior lights. its not hard at all... you can use the cigarette lighter for your constant power.as for the wiring harness for these trucks... good luck! i havnt seen one of them for years.

 

[bvteachey]

Yeah i wasnt very confident I would find a wiring adapter... I've wired a few units though and what your saying sounds easy enough, Thanks