Factory CD changer with aftermarket head unit???????

[aldive]

Can one use the stock factory Ford CD changer with an aftermarket head unit?

 

[cobrajeff]

Highly unlikely - the factory CD Changer is designed to work with Ford radios only.

There ARE some aftermarket companies who have "reverse-engineered" and copied the proprietary Ford communication protocol, and claim to have adapter boxes that will make the Ford radios work with aftermarket changers, and aftermarket radios with Ford changers, but I wouldn't count on it.

You would also likely lose other functionality, including the interface between Rear Seat Controls and Redundant Steering Wheel Controls.

cobrajeff

 

['96explorereddiebauer]

Jeff, I have another question for ya. As you know already, I have the JBL system without the CD-changer and the controls. Anyways, I found a Ford JBL receiver with CD-changer controls for sale on e-bay and I'm thinking of getting it. Should I get it?? Will it work with the wiring I have? Is it just a simple plug in? Thanks for your help!!

 

[DarkFox1]

if you have the JBL system without the factory CD contols, there are 2 things you can do.. 1, do what a dealership does and get an FM modulator for the CD controls, or 2, get a ford JBL HU with the CD changer controls, this may be costly, but if the one on ebay is for like $150 or so, I think thats pretty good. although personally, I'd say ditch the entire factory system, but its ok for as long as the subwoofer lasts. mine blew the 1st year I had the truck