Installing headunit in place of the CD changer?

[95XLTex]

I dont like the 6 disc changer and want to install a cd player in the console where the cd changer used to be. Can I do this and if i can, what are the wire colors and their functions in a 1995 xlt?


Thanks alot
Matt

 

[Prplayboy]

You mean you currently have an in-dash 6 disk changer?

 

[95XLTex]

No, i have the factory 6 disc cd changer in the center console. I like the idea of a head unit in there, so i figured i would just take out the cd changer and put in a head unit in its place( i'd make some sort of custom enclosure for it). I like the idea of keeping my dash setup looking stock and then hiding my head unit away. I just want to know if the wires running to the cd changer will be able to be hooked up to my headunit?


thanks again
Matt

 

[Prplayboy]

Nope. The best thing you can do is get a $7 wiring harness for the after market radio to go to the stock harness and just make the wires from the harness as long as they need to be to reach the location of the after market radio. When u say center console do u mean the arm rest area? I'm just curious if the radio will standing up or in the normal position.

 

[Alec]

Most HUs probably won't like being in a vertical position; they may overheat easier or it may cause the motors to wear faster. I'm not sure though. You could look into "secret audio" products made for hot rods and the like.

Or you could do what I did. Sorry, I don't have a pic right now, but I fashioned a fake faceplate from a factory HU to put on top of the aftermarket one when I left the truck. Looked stock

Keep in mind most HU remotes wont work, you'll have to lift the armrest to use the HU which is dangerous while driving, you won't be able to see the display, etc, etc.

Seems like a bunch of disadvantages to me.

 

[95XLTex]

well why wouldnt it work? The wires running to the center console where the cd changer used to be should still contain all the necessary wires. I plan on putting in the aftermarket radio where the cd change used to be, and yes it would be upright. Ill make some sort of little box or something for it. Doesn't th cd changer need the same wires a a headunit to work?

 

[Alec]

no, the wires are different. a changer is not a HU, and a HU is not a changer.

EDIT: you'll also need to run an amp bypass, and disconnect all the wires from the stock hu except power, ground, and dimmer.