MP3 Receiver that fits into my Explorer

[Xanthis]

I went to Crutchfield for MP3 receivers and I don't think I have a JBL installed, but the factory installed radio. I just bought the car from someone, and no where do I see JBL.

Crutchfield sells the adapter for $50 for the receivers, but I find a bit expensive for an adapter, so I was wondering what else can I look for?

I want to get any 'ole MP3/CD receiver from eBay, then purchase an adapter, but I'm not sure where else to go other than to Crutchfield. Any suggestions?

Also, since the players are smaller than my default radio, will I have a big gaping hole in my dash board?

 

[RattleSnake96]

Welcome to the site. At best buy they sell the adapters for the headunit. They also sell a face kit that holds the unit and there is a little pocket that you can put on the top or bottem. Good luck. PeAcE

 

[wvsquirrel]

I just installed an Alpine CDA-7995 MP3 headunit in my '97. The adapter that came with it was very easy to install (it's the one with the pocket on top like RattleSnake96 mentioned). All you have to do is remove the factory headunit, then snap the new adapter in place. My adapter had 2 tabs that I had to remove, but the rest simply pushed into place and used the factory lip to secure to. I didn't even have to remove the main dash panel (the big black face plate that goes over the AC, vent, Radio, lighter, fog light, and rear wiper controls). Took less then 5 minutes

You'll need a wiring kit like this one to easily interface your aftermarket headunit with the factory wires...
Wiring Adapter

And a dash kit/adapter like this one...
Dash Kit/Adapter

You should be able to get them from Crutchfield, Best Buy, or just about any audio shop in your area. Make sure to check the back of your OEM headunit for the proper plugs. I've seen some wiring kits that have 2 rectangular plugs, and some that have 1 rectangular and 1 square plug. Crutchfield sent me the wrong ones at first. The Metra kit I linked to was the one I really needed

 

[03ExplorerSPT]

When you have an aftermarket stereo installed it will look similar to this:

There will be no gap or hole.