Factory CD Player MUST go...

sbutter21 · #1 03-12-2004, 03:45 PM

A week ago today I bought a 2004.5 Ram 2500 (Full details in sig).

The CD player isn't playing any CDs anymore. I'm not that upset about it anyway. I'm thinking of going with a Pioneer DEH-P7600MP.

I'm going adding an amp or replacing speakers right now, but I was wondering if anyone has a write up on how to remove the old one. Most importantly, how to remove the trim around the radio and hvac. I'm sure I can figure it out with some prodding, but was hoping someone here had some pointers.

Here is a pic of my new rig:

Thanks,
Sam

bearcat74 · #2 03-12-2004, 04:01 PM

sbutter21,
Actually its very easy to take off the trim plate. There is a single screw in the hook pocket on the lower right side of the trim. Then remove the four on the stereo mount. You will need the antenna adaptor for the aftermarket stereo. Check with your local stereo shop they should be able to hook you up with it. Have fun and let us know how it goes.

Bearcat

Klute · #3 03-12-2004, 06:07 PM

Bearcat is 100% correct. I just replaced my head unit and door speakers. I ordered them from crutchfield.com and the order came with all the wiring harness and adaptors for the speakers. It also gave a detailed illustration of everything you had to do. The biggest problem was replacing the rear door speakers as I had to drill new holes for the 6.5 inch speakers.

If you have a fax #, I can fax them to you on Monday since I don't have them here at work.

Vader · #4 03-12-2004, 07:05 PM

Pioneer is a good choice, heres mine, installed in less than 1 hour by me (And I didn't even use the Force)

[IMG]local://upfiles/1014/Rp434634381.jpg[/IMG]

Klute · #5 03-12-2004, 07:54 PM

I went with Kenwood. Why, why not? I had Pioneer in last car and then Panasonic, and then Alpine. All were good, thought I would try Kenwood this time.

Redhairedcwgirl · #6 03-12-2004, 08:24 PM

Know what you mean! I suffered thru 4 years of the factory CD player, with the Infinity System and the thing doesn't read CD-R, CD-RW, or mp3s . So, I went with an Alpine, and replaced a thing or two, here and there. Hope that works out for you.
Vader, that's coool, man. No Force, huh?

gpzjack · #7 03-12-2004, 08:46 PM

Had mine about three weeks and replaced it with a new Alpine that just came out with the built in xm tuner (not xm ready but the tuner built in, no additional wiring) I love it.

CaliHemi · #8 03-12-2004, 10:36 PM

I wanted to replace my stock stereo as well but have a concern. I really enjoy the volume and station control on the steering wheel. Is it possible to hook an aftermarket stereo into these controls?

Vader · #9 03-13-2004, 11:58 AM

So far, I haven't come across anyone who has been able to use the wheel buttons after the install, sorry. I you can figure it out, post instructions here.

sbutter21 · #10 03-17-2004, 11:57 PM

I just ordered the Pioneer DEH-7600MP. Looking forward to installing it this weekend.

-Sam