Installing new head unit

[debutis]

I have a 98 EB explorer with MACH sound system and my friend has just given me his jvc chamelleon(sp?) head unit. I would like to install this and still retain the rest of the factory system. Is this at all possible. I've done some searching here on the boards and everyone says that it should be fairly easy yet i'm a novice when it comes to car audio! Everyone says to bypass the amp?? Are they saying to bypass the amp going to the speakers or the amp going to the sub? Why would I bypass the amp? Wouldn't I just lose power going to the speakers/sub? What all do I need for the install? Obviously the deck, the little ford radio tool, and a harness?? What harness do I get and where can I find them and around how much will I spend on one? Anything else i'll need?? Is it truly that easy of a project to complete? How long should it take?
Thanks in advance

 

[Brian's98XLT]

If you want to keep the factory system and just replace the radio you will need a interface for it. I recommend Soundgate. There web address is www.soundgate.com
Give there tech a call and they can get you the right part to do the interface.