Replacing a Ford Factory Radio...

**Fandrew** · 10-13-2009, 02:28 PM

Ok, this is probably the 5th time in my life I've put in an aftermarket radio, but this is the first time I've done it on a Ford. (So far, 2 Nissans, 1 Toyota, 1 Honda, 1 Mitsubishi)

I'm somewhat confused, because I read something about needing a Ford DIN Radio Removal Tool. I have no idea what it is. Is it necessary? Can I make one out of a coat hanger?

BTW, this is a 2001 F150

mattslope · 10-13-2009, 02:56 PM

Yes, you can make one.

Bend a wire so it resembles the attached image, then push the two prongs into the holes in the face plate of the radio.

**Fandrew** · 10-13-2009, 03:10 PM

So, I need to make two of those, right? One for each side?

mattslope · 10-13-2009, 03:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JayCarrFan

So, I need to make two of those, right? One for each side?

You got it. You could make it a basic 'C' shape, but the Ford ones look similar to what I drew.

**Fandrew** · 10-13-2009, 04:08 PM

Ok, got the old one out. Let me go ahead and say that with the old one, I had several problems with the radio randomly changing band (FM to AM) and Station, as well as random fluctuations in volume. Now that I've taken it out, I think I can see the problem. The power supply cable (I think) is corroded. the tip is all rusted out, and the cable itself is severely bent and misshapen. I think I might need to get someone else to put my radio in.

Thoughts? I can get pics if you'd rather.

mattslope · 10-13-2009, 04:19 PM

You can install your radio yourself if you're comfortable with basic DC electricity. It's fairly simple (or un-complex if you're writing a college level essay). Is the factory radio harness corroded, or did someone butcher the factory harness?

**Fandrew** · 10-13-2009, 04:29 PM

The harness is good. The other cable, the simple black one (Antenna or power, I forget) is the one in rough shape. It's got a right angle tip on it, which will have to go, and it's rusted and might have a short. I'm fine with putting a harness on my cd player and getting in in there, although I'm a little unsure what to mount it to in the Ford.

mattslope · 10-13-2009, 06:07 PM

There shouldn't be any power in the antennae to short out. If you have electricity in the antennae cable, someone has wired your stereo incorrectly. If the antennae connector is corroded, you can replace it, but cleaning it up is likely a cure for it's ails. There's no way your radio was bugging electrically unless your antennae has power attached to it's radio lead.