I want to put a newer radio in my 66 for a while, can I remove and install the radio without taking out my heater core box, it looks too tight to do it. Dean PS thanks
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Re: 66 vette radio installation
The 66 Radio can be removed. I've taken both 65 and 66 radios out a number of times. The following is from memory.
1. Remove the side fiberglass panels. 2. Disconnect all electrical connections on panels and rear of radio. 3. Remove all knobs and associated hardware and small duct on the heater 4. Remove bolt rear lower right side. 5. The radio should be loose, now grab it with two hands and tilt, wiggle twist and it should come out the left side.
Good luck, Ed -
Re: 66 vette radio installation
The 66 Radio can be removed. I've taken both 65 and 66 radios out a number of times. The following is from memory.
1. Remove the side fiberglass panels. 2. Disconnect all electrical connections on panels and rear of radio. 3. Remove all knobs and associated hardware and small duct on the heater 4. Remove bolt rear lower right side. 5. The radio should be loose, now grab it with two hands and tilt, wiggle twist and it should come out the left side.
Good luck, EdComment
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Re: 66 vette radio removal
Dean, in addition to what Ed has mentioned, the '66 GM Delco radio manual says to disconnect the battery ground cable before starting (I haven't always obeyed this); tilt radio top backwards and carefully manipulate through the side (doesn't specify left or right). If you're going to replace the speaker (to compliment the better radio), remove the glove box. In fact, if you've never had one of these midyear radios out before, I'd suggest this step anyway, for a better view. In addition to the side panels, I've always had to remove the center console, as its lips block the radio. The 3 electrical connections are the antenna, the speaker plug, and the power plug. As to whether to tilt front/back or to remove from left/right side, it's whatever works without forcing. Make sure the volume and tuning shafts don't hang up. Be patient, it's REALLY tight. If your car has air conditioning, the under dash & glovebox ducts should also be removed. BTW, if your car has the big gas tank, ensure that you don't deface the N03 crayon script on the top of the transmission tunnel with your "manipulations".Comment
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Re: 66 vette radio removal
Dean, in addition to what Ed has mentioned, the '66 GM Delco radio manual says to disconnect the battery ground cable before starting (I haven't always obeyed this); tilt radio top backwards and carefully manipulate through the side (doesn't specify left or right). If you're going to replace the speaker (to compliment the better radio), remove the glove box. In fact, if you've never had one of these midyear radios out before, I'd suggest this step anyway, for a better view. In addition to the side panels, I've always had to remove the center console, as its lips block the radio. The 3 electrical connections are the antenna, the speaker plug, and the power plug. As to whether to tilt front/back or to remove from left/right side, it's whatever works without forcing. Make sure the volume and tuning shafts don't hang up. Be patient, it's REALLY tight. If your car has air conditioning, the under dash & glovebox ducts should also be removed. BTW, if your car has the big gas tank, ensure that you don't deface the N03 crayon script on the top of the transmission tunnel with your "manipulations".Comment
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Re: 66 vette radio installation
My 65 had a good sounding stereo cassette in it when I bought it last summer. I've just finished the reverse of what you're doing - decided that the modern in-dash look didn't look as vintage as I would like. I pulled the unit (easily, as others have described) and put in the old vintage unit back in, refurbished, with new chrome and all. Looks great, but of course sounds pretty bad compared with new units. I purchased a Sony CD player, and am installing it hidden in the right storage compartment. With its wired control, you don't have to see the unit to operate it. I put new speakers up front (you have to remove the glove box for this, but it really is pretty simple), and have placed two 4 inchers in back. The storage box cover will be replaced with two individual covers, so that I can lift the RH one, and tilt up the Sony while I'm driving. Sounds complicated, but it was really easy with minimal shop skills. Thought you might want to consider this alternate approach. If not, and you would like a really fine in dash unit, send me a message.Comment
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Re: 66 vette radio installation
My 65 had a good sounding stereo cassette in it when I bought it last summer. I've just finished the reverse of what you're doing - decided that the modern in-dash look didn't look as vintage as I would like. I pulled the unit (easily, as others have described) and put in the old vintage unit back in, refurbished, with new chrome and all. Looks great, but of course sounds pretty bad compared with new units. I purchased a Sony CD player, and am installing it hidden in the right storage compartment. With its wired control, you don't have to see the unit to operate it. I put new speakers up front (you have to remove the glove box for this, but it really is pretty simple), and have placed two 4 inchers in back. The storage box cover will be replaced with two individual covers, so that I can lift the RH one, and tilt up the Sony while I'm driving. Sounds complicated, but it was really easy with minimal shop skills. Thought you might want to consider this alternate approach. If not, and you would like a really fine in dash unit, send me a message.Comment
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