2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Aftermarket radio install...

I plan on installing a CD player in my Ram. My only concern with a aftermarket radio is the fit in the dash. I see Wal Mart carries a product that has black plastic pieces that covers up the surrounding voids left by the factory radio being removed. Any one have a aftermarket radio, which I'm sure there is, and how did you cover up the empty spaces?

 

I purchased my radio from Crutchfield. They have an install kit included with each radio. Or you can simply buy the kit from them, without the purchase of the radio. The kits cost about $10.



http://www.crutchfield.com



Scot

 

The kit from Crutfield is the same thing you see at Walmart. It is a plastic piece the fills the void remaining. One thing you may want to look at if you don't like this look is a what the call a Din and a half radio. It will fit right into the factory location without any problem. A Double Din is too big. The one's you are looking at at walmart are a single din. It is all a matter of personal preference. I have run many aftermarket radios in my vehicles over time. I have been happiest with Alpine. They will play the most scratched cd and it takes alot to make them skip. Even airborn and landing I wasn't able to make mine skip. That is my . 02 advice. Happy shopping.

 

There are also a few models that are direct fit replacements where you wont need any filler. Pioneer, Alpine and I think Jensen probably a couple others as well. If I recall correctly for a direct fit replacement the size is 1. 5 DIN.

 

While you at it, get a wiring harness kit. It'll just plug right into the stock harness.

 

What did you guys use to tie into the radio controls on the steering wheel... . or did you just not worry about it???

 

Usually you are SOL with the steering wheel controls if you replace the factory radio. You can modify the circut boards to gain functionality back but this is not recommended and voids any little warantte they may have. Best bet is to keep the factory radio add whatever speakers or subs you want powered by the amp you want and hide the speakers. Now you still have the factory look and considerably better sound. Oh and your steering wheel controls still work. Most aftermarket radios come with a remote these days so this could be your way out as well. Mount the remote to the steering wheel and you have all of your old controls and more back.

 

There are add-on boxes that can utilize the steering wheel controls. However I cannot think of the name.

 

if you go to Crutchfield's website and search for the steeringwheel integration module, they run about $60, and I've heard they work with basically everything but a WIDE range of sony's.



Corey

 

The head unit that you install MUST have a wireless remote in order for this unit to work. http://www.crutchfield.com/S-UK14t079BQG/cgi-bin/prodview.asp?i=127SWIX&s=0&cc=01 Phil