[08HybridOK]

So my 2000 expedition stereo is now what 9-10 yrs old. I was wondering if there is an easy way to swap it out for an aftermarket w/HD radio?

It looks easy to pull, it has the pull tab holes on the side ( I might even have the tools around here somwhere). But I guess that's the easy part. How do I find a unit to fill the void (it looks like it's twice as thick as a std car stereo). Will it connect to the existing speakers & Sub [MACH stereo] & 6 cd changer in the arm rest?

I'm hoping for a simple DIY R&R, if possible. I suppose I could lose the cd changer if I had a built in cd/mp3 cd player & mp3 inputs.

So suggestions on what will fit, what has HD radio, and will be easiest?

TIA
B

 

[MidnightTribute]

You will need an install kit, places like http://www.crutchfield.com/c_3/Car-Audio-Video.html can help you find what you need, not sure what stores are local to you but even places like wal mart or auto part stores sell them. You will also need a wiring harness, most often can be bought from the same places as the trim kit. Once you have both these things all you have to do is match the wires on the kit and from your harness and install your dash kit and you should be good.

Most come with cd/mp3/wma players now, and yes it connects to exiting speakers. Most head units have an input for cd changers, so depending on how your stock changer is hooked up then it's possible that you can still use it.

 

[hattrick203]

i would recommend ABC warehouse if you have one around, got my radio cheap (last year's model), and the install was quick and free, got it installed same day

oh and the install kit was included too

 

[SilverAthlon]

Hey 08HybridOK

You probably made a move on this or learned more about it, but most of the aftermarket offerings today have the capability to add HD Radio, but I've not seen it built in to any units yet, which means stashing things under the passenger seat and running wires between the seat and the dash.

Crutchfield's audio selector can tell you what fits for sure, but for example, 07 escape does not accept the DoubleDin standard "officially" but we've all modded the opening by less than 1/4 inch and it works great. That depends on your willingness to get in-depth..

I would say it is pretty easy to DIY, you'll need to get a install kit, as well as a ford specific wiring harness adapter. Once you get that, you match the wires between deck harness and the vehicle harness, and you can plug it right in to the current wiring in the car. Connect the ground, antenna, and accessories and you can put it right in the dash.

I know for a fact that if you take a wire hanger, use each end of the hanger as a pre-bent "U" and give about 3-4" of length for each arm can make the removal tool in a pinch. Plug in and "bend" towards the doors and slide current deck out.

 

[08HybridOK]

Thanks for the advise. I have a removal tool all ready.

I decided to buy a boat instead, so fo now at least the HD radio is on hold. I'll just use the cassett adapter to listen to mp3 player.

 

[SilverAthlon]

Killer. Glad to see everyone's wearing PFD's, especially the kiddies.

 

[08HybridOK]

Killer. Glad to see everyone's wearing PFD's, especially the kiddies.

We're all capable swimmers, but you never know how a kid will react to the sudden exposure to the water.

The oars only lasted that first trip, when I got home I orderd a trolling motor and battery :yes: :yahoo:

So the next trip was easier to get arround on the small lake. Just wish I'd catch something!!

Here's a video from sister-in-law's new boat(you can see me in the background):

 

[Colleen]

Nice boat and great video, 08HybridOK !!!

 

[SilverAthlon]

We have a crystal lake hereabout 8 miles from me, I assume you're not from these parts because there's still ice on the lakes...