radio installation

A

akv8

Member
Is there a trick in getting a factory radio installed in a 79 Thunderbird? There simply seems to be no room to get the radio under the dash panel and up into the radio opening. Do you have to take the heater ducts out? Thanks for any help. AK
 
Have you searched the internet? You might find a video. I recently replaced the combination factory radio-CD player in my daughter's 2001 pickup (not Ford). Although it required disconnecting the battery, removing air bag & radio fuses, letting it sit for at least 24 hours to make sure there was no stored energy, and disassembling the dash, it wasn't that difficult. The video was rather intimidating, and I was concerned about breaking dash plastic pieces and/or wiring connectors, but there were no casualties. I was pleased with myself after putting it back together and playing the NOS radio for the first time. I have no idea what the dealer would have charged to do the job, but probably at least $300.
 
Thanks for the info. I guess I will have to go through the front of the dash and take it apart. I don't know when this taking apart the dash started but it was very easy in earlier cars. All you needed to do was go up under the dash and push the radio into the proper area, then bolt it down. AK
 
Last time I worked on a dash radio in a car newer than 1970, I had my buddy come over and take my sawzall away before I started. Didn’t want temptation to get the better of me,
 
The procedure is outlined in the shop manual, mine is in the attic. The heater duct may need to come out, it should be self-explanatory.
 
Thanks for the comments. I was finally able to get the radio installed by going through the back of the dash but it wasn't easy. Wires, ducts and cables everywhere it seems. Any rate, got it in with a little elbow grease. AK
 
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