CD Changer to work with <don't ding me> stock head unit

[jrfranz]

Hello folks -

I know that I will get picked on for this, but I don't want to spring $1400 for subs and all that stuff for chrissake I am 33 not 23, I have kids - jeez.

OK with that our of the way, what is the best deal for a CD changer that will work with the stock head in my '96 XLT - I have the head that has the CD changer controls built into it. I have checked around and everyone locally wants about $350 to put an Alpine or a Kenwood in. I run stiff offroad shocks and I know I have a very rough ride compared to most Explorers - my point in telling you this - skipping CD players annoy me. With all that in mind, what are your reccomendations? How hard is this to install in the center console? Is the wiring already there?

If I go crazy and update the speakers (all factory) but want them to fit in the stock grilles what do you guys and gals reccomend? - Remeber I listen to Ben Folds 5 and Weezer...

I am currently using my Sony Discman with ESP and it will not skip no matter what I do. I want similar performance -

Thanks in advance -

 

[aldive]

I have a 6 disc changer from my 99 ( just removed a week ago ) as well as the factory HU which has AM/FM. CD. and Cassette for sale.

I am asking $150 for both plus shipping.

Make an offer on the changer.

 

[Kontrol-Trak]

Polk Audio DX7s are great factory replacements. They are $99 at crutchfield.

 

[CBoug76]

JrFranz,

It is easy as long as you get the Right parts.....
I have done the same thing as you want to do.
I have used my CD player on the trail while Off-roading and I don't remember the CD skipping at all.

Aldive's unit SHOULD work for you.
You will need 3 parts from him.

#1 CD Changer & all mounting hardware
#2 Wirring harness to connect CD Changer to Radio
#3 Plastic to mount CD Changer in Center Console

It is all plug and play! just plug everything in, mount everything up and your good to go!

 

['96explorereddiebauer]

...Or you can do what I did. Get a Kenwood changer with OEM adaptor from Crutchfield. I bought mine for $270 including shipping. Here's the thread:

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?threadid=28139&highlight=changer

Installation isn't hard at all. The hardest part is to run the wires to the center console from the amp...which is in the back of the truck. Good luck!!!

 

[jrfranz]

Is there any way to determine if the cable from the head unit to the changer was put in at the factory?
If so where is it and what does it look like? I assume it is probably down under the arm rest some place? How do I check?

I am wondering because it will effect what I buy - especially if I go for a used one -

Thanks again -

Jeff

 

['96explorereddiebauer]

Originally posted by jrfranz
Is there any way to determine if the cable from the head unit to the changer was put in at the factory?
If so where is it and what does it look like? I assume it is probably down under the arm rest some place? How do I check?

If you take the sleeve off of the center console, there should be a plug that isn't plugged into anything on the left-front corner. If there is one, you can just pick up another changer from ebay. Just remember to get one that is for '95 to '97 only because I believe Ford changed the plugs for '98-current Explorers. Hope this helps.

 

[CBoug76]

I am 99.9999999 % sure your Explorer did NOT come with the cable!

I believe that all CD changers take the same plug so that it really doesn't matter if you get one for a newer or older explorer, But if you can, get one for your Year Explorer.

 

[TSTONE]

my .02 - buy the head and cd from aldive, even if you don't have wires already installed, shelve the head as a replacement (cause trust if you plan on keeping your x for a long time eventually you'll need it) and factory heads r x-pen-sive, if you decide that you don't want to install it, call your local fomoco dealer and ask who they use for their dealer installs, and have them wire it in shouldn't be more than $50-$75. most vehicles arrive at the dealership w/o the cd changer and we have them installed as needed. good luck
todd