How do you remove the dashboard on a 2005 SD XLT?
Im trying to get to the RCA jacks on my radio.
If I just pull hard will it pop off?
Thanks ~Gage~

 

Can't you just pull the radio to get to the Jacks on the radio?

To pull the dash you have to pull the radio anyway. The dash pops off but some trim removal spoons would be good so you don't break the clips.

 

On the 05-up trucks you do have to remove the dash to get to the radio. Tilt the steering wheel all the way down. Turn the key to unlock (the first position forward of lock, nothing will turn on but it unlocks the shifter). Put the parking brake on and shift into 1st gear (if an automatic). Grab the dash just above the gauges and pull it toward you. It should pull straight off. Starte working your way around pulling the dash toward the back of the truck until you get all clips released. Tilt it and reach behind to unhook all the electrical connectors (there are quite a few, 11 of them in my Lariat). After all the electrical connectors are loose you should be able to tilt it up and over the steering wheel to remove it. It's a little easier to get out if you also remove the driver side grab handle (4 bolts behind the rubber covers, and it will pull off).

Just in case you didn't realize, there are no RCA jacks on the factory stereo. If you want to add RCA input you will have to buy an adapter unit (PIE is the most popular here). If you want to add RCA's for an amplifier you will have to buy a line level converter and tap into the speaker wires. If you have an aftermarket unit with RCAs ignore these comments.

 

I actually found it easier on my 06 to start at the left side. I insert a flat screw driver between the dash and the trim, rotate it 90 degrees and then I can get my fingers behind the trim enough to start pulling.
There are maybe ~6 points that hold it on. One on each side of the steering column at the bottom, one on the left, two to the right of the radio and one more near the vent on the left of the radio...

I might have to try pulling from the center next time. That seems like it might be a good strategy.

It is possible to remove the radio without taking all of the electrical connectors off too. You can move the dash trim around enough to get the
bolts out and slide the radio out.

Taking it off is certainly easier, but like beerstalker says, there are a lot of connections back there some of which can be obnoxious to take off.

 

I've removed the radio in my '05 without completly removed the dash cover...Do all the above and do NOT remove any of the wiring. Helps if you have a helper. Have them hold right side out while you use 1/4 drive socket set to pull the radio bolts. (4) Radio will tilt enough to install the PIE plug.

 

I usually remove just the wires on the left side - for me it is just headlights and interior lights. That way you can at least get the dash trim up and over the gear shift lever.

 

After you do it a couple times it is not a problem. I could probably go and have the dash off and radio out in under 5 minutes.

 

Well, that means I could probably do it in 3!

 

Thanks guys for the info...
I would like to add my MP3 to my factory radio, Where do I get the PIE?
Thanks ~Gage~
Also how long will this take to install?

 

Here it is at the place I have seen recommended by most of the people on here.

http://www.logjamelectronics.com/piefrd04aux.html

 

Didn't know the 05' and ups had to remove the dash to get to the radio.

 

Yep, they changed out the radio style in 05 to the same style radio that they switched the f150 to in 04. I personally like it as it is much easier and cleaner to install aftermarket units, and it fits a double din unit perfectly (unlike the 04 and earlier models where you had to trim the dash and modify a mounting kit).

 

Another place to purchase... http://www.discountcarstereo.com/detail.aspx?ID=813

 

Thanks guys for all the help, I took my dash off it was really easy, one thing I have to disconnect all the wires/switches from the dash to take the hook up the PIE?
Thanks again

 

Umm... I might be an idiot, but I plugged in my RCA adaptor (not sure if its a PIE, but it plugged into the stock head) by dropping the glove box down and shoving my hand up there. I'll be the first to say I've got small hands, but between the glove box, the other drop down compartment and some feeling around I didn't need to pull off the dash.