Installing an aftermarket stereo

[cicelyak]

Hey guys --

 

My stock AM/FM radio doesn't work. I'd like to drop a new aftermarket stereo in there.

 

The old stock stereo lights up ok, so I know it's getting power. Also, there's a very quiet hiss and static on the speakers, so I believe the speaker wires are ok too, and potentially the speakers themselves.

 

It looks like the black plastic trim around the dash comes off with just a couple screws. What do I need to do after that? Do I need to buy some kind of adapter kit to fit a new stereo in there? What about a wiring harness? I don't mind splicing into the wires if it means saving $20 on a wiring harness.

 

Thanks!

[87Warrior]

Get your self the adapter/harness. It will make the install much simpler and less frustrating. Get the proper installation kit to hold the radio in the dash as well.

[knever3]

A wire harness will make the job much easier indeed. The Jeep wire colors aren't easy to follow and if you want to switch radios in the future it will be a lot easier with the harness. As for the dash mount the factory has supplied a steel bracket that slides into the dash on top. You will have to drill new holes in the bracket but the radio gets mounted without a trim ring behind the factory dash. If done well it looks great. Pay attention to how much reveal the radio face in relation to the steel bracket and locate the new holes to drill for the aftermarket one.

 

Good luck!

[Herc]

What year is your Comanche? That will determine which wiring harness(if you use one) you will need and whether or not you will find one. I know for my 86 MJ there is no wiring harness kit.....least not around here. Still looking on ebay though! for now I'm just wiring it straight into the wiring harness. Good luck with your install

[cicelyak]

Herc -- My truck is also a 1986. Should I just order this?

 

http://www.amazon.com/Metra-99-5700-Ins ... B000281X6A

 

Thanks!

[lostissues]

Herc -- My truck is also a 1986. Should I just order this?

 

http://www.amazon.com/Metra-99-5700-Ins ... B000281X6A

 

Thanks!

 

I would say don't use the kit. just buy the wiring harness and use the bracket that is on the factory radio or try and find one at a junk yard or for sale somewhere.

[Herc]

Herc -- My truck is also a 1986. Should I just order this?

 

http://www.amazon.com/Metra-99-5700-Ins ... B000281X6A

 

Thanks!

 

I used the standard "Dash Install Kit" made by E2 for 74'-01' Ford/Chrysler/Jeepp and it should fit perfectly Kit is $15

 

Or you can just use the factory radio mounting bracket, it doesn't quite center the stereo in the dash but give it a few bends and it will be close.