Radio removal tool

[rollinstone]

My '97 XLT has got a couple of burned out bulbs on my instrument panel. The radio assembly must be removed in order to remove the instrument panel to get at the bulbs behind the inst. panel. Radio removal requires a special radio removal tool (Part #T87P-19061-A)...looks like a little set of prongs. The Ford dealership can't sell the tool to us DIY types, and I understand why...radios would start disappearing at faster rates than they are already.

Anyway, how can I remove my radio without that particular tool? Thanks!

 

[Robb]

You could try making one out of a metal clothes hanger.

BTW: You can get the tool from Wal-Mart (usually), most auto parts stores, and most car audio dealers. I think it costs less than $5.

 

[rollinstone]

Thanks, Robb...AND I appreciate your reminder to do a search, which is what I did right after starting this thread. Love your quote!!

From now on: Search first...ask questions later!

The other quote that I saw here was "Nothing scares me more than seeing two women, two cars, and a set of jumper cables!" After reading that one I went back and reviewed my jump starting procedures.

 

[woodychitwn]

Yeah, you can buy 'em in almost any parts store from outside retailers. However any solid wires will work, you basically just need to insert something to press the side clips inwards, thereby allowing the radio to slide out. It may just take some wiggling without the tool, which has notched ends which grab onto the clips and aid in pulling out the radio.

 

[huskyfan23]

They used to be hard to find. I would buy lots of sets from Crutchfield for $3 a pair and sell them on eBay for $20+ a pair. Clothes hangers work just as well.

 

[rollinstone]

Guys...I tried the fabricated clothes hanger, but can't budge the radio. Yes, I removed the lower screws. There's really nothing to grab hold of to give it a tug, except the inside of the audio tape slot. I didn't want to tug too hard for fear of damaging something. Maybe I gotta buy the darn tool after all. Any other suggestions?

 

[alexefron]

After you stick the clothes hangers in (1-2 inches) pull the clothes hangers outward from the radio (left to the left, right to the right) and wiggle it a little, it takes a little time to get it the first time, after you know how to do it you can have it out in a few seconds.

 

[SVO]

This is the actual tool, if you don't have these I would try nails, as the coat hangers (which is a good idea) aren't as strong and will bend, and aren't as snug of a fit.

These tools, bought off the MAC Tool truck cost $7

 

[KPT]

You don't need the tools. Just take the two bolts above the climate control out. Pull the whole trim piece forward. Push in on either side of the radio and it will seperate from the trim piece.

 

[Crankcase]

Remember...if you use a coat hanger, you will need to chop it into 2 pieces....all four holes must be filled before it will budge....