Want to pull the factory radio and put in an aftermarket. 1. Looks like there is a panel that comes off around the radio and heater control area? How do I pull it? Also the new radio is shorter (up and down) won’t fill the hole completely. Is there a pocket kit out there? Also how do I get the old radio out? Tool? Coat hanger? How does that work just push on all 4 spots at the same time? Does it pop out spring loaded etc?

Thanks in advance

 

everett97XL,

I've done this on a couple of trucks, but it's been awhile. I try and answer your questions as best as I can remember.

1. There is a panel that comes off. It should be a piece that just frames the radio and controls. You have to get a little mean with it and pry it off, with maybe even with a flathead screwdriver.

2. There are kits out there. Real easy to find at a Walmart or Autozone.

3. There a special tools that you can buy to remove the radio. I'm not sure where you could find these. I've always used coat hanger or a nail that is the right size. All you do is insert the tool or whatever you use into all four holes at once. You'll need push these in quite a ways in. Once something is in all 4 holes try pulling the radio out. If it does not come out then you may have to mess the objects in your holes alittlemore to get it to release.

AR

 

hey everett,

let me know how things go. I'd like to know if I'm any help or not and if you don't understand what I tried to say let me know and I'll try clear things up.

AR

 

I would not use a screwdriver to pry the radio/heater bezel off. Instead turn the a/c vents in toward the center and reach inside the holes and pull if off. You may have to give it a pretty good tug to get the clips to release. no tools needed. To remove the radio you can buy a tool but I mad mine from a coathanger. Cut two pieces approximately 6 inches long and bend into a U shape to fit inside the two holes on each side of your radio. Insert one one each side about an inch to an inch and a half. Pull the tools out (to the sides) of the radio and hold while pulling back towards you and the radio will slide out. It may take a little tinkering to figure out how far to push the little removal tool into the holes but it is easy. For the installation you can get a kit made by Schoshe sp?? and they are usually available at WalMart or any place which sell car audio. Also get the wiring adapter so you do not have to cut the wiring harness. All together will cost you $25 or $30 bux. Then when you sell or trade your truck you can easily put the old factory unit back in place and keep your aftermarket unit. Hope it helps and good luck.......ST

 

Almost forgot!! When you remove the bezel around the radio take care because the on/off switch for the passenger airbag is mounted to it. Don't break your wiring!! There are some screws where you can remove it I think but I have always just been careful and let mine hang by the wires while I do my work.

 

I'd go with a Metra intall kit. The Schoche kit works but its a little flimsy and only has some clips. The Metra is a little more rigid and uses a few screws. Get the wiring harness adapter for sure! Just plug and play!

 

Thanks guys. I finished it without problems. It was a good tip to go inside the air vents to pull the bezel.

Now I am looking for 4x4 stickers and Triten emblems. Ideas?

 

yeah, I hadn't ever thought of using the air vents to remove the bezel. Good tip seldont. everett you might try a salvage yard that carries late model trucks they might have the Triton emblems cheap. As for the stickers you can order them out of JCWhitney I believe.

AR