C3 - Radio Upgrade

[Andrew Johnson]

I need to replace a 1970s replacement radio in my C3. I want one that fits in the bezel since the holes haven't been cut and I have the original knobs. I would like an in-dash CD if that is possible. If not, I would like an AM/FM in-dash and a small changer that can be placed out of the way with minimal damage to the Vette. I have a convertible if that makes a difference.

I will probably install the unit with the help of friends but if anyone knows a good shop in the DC area that might be helpful.

Regards,

Andrew

[Dave F.]

Re: C3 - Radio Upgrade

Andrew,

I am considering the same thing, and have found no in-dash cd units. Only Custom Autosound seems to offer a C3 original "style" with an in-dash cassette and remote cd unit. I'd like to see alternates to that, but haven't so far.

[Jack H.]

Built my own....

Custom autosound simply takes OEM delivery of stock Kenwood sets, modifies them to fit the existing opening, tapes over the mfgr's name with a Chevy bowtie emblem and supplies 'dummy' washers to absorb the extra space of vol/tuning knob recesses in the factory stock center console bezel. I ran cable down the top side of the transmissing tunnel and into the rear storage compartment. Ordered a GM, fiberglass, service replacement storage tray (sits atop the jack) and 'chopped' it up to house my 10-disk CD changer.

Works fine with AM/FM/Stereo/Cassette/CD functions and all can be converted back to factory stock with a little effort. If you want a turn-key system to drop in, you're pretty much stuck with AM/FM/Stereo/Cassette or the Custom Autosound system with the remote CD changer. Anyway you turn, you're going to pay over going market for someone else's 'engineering' effort to fit your dash unless you want to do it yourself....

[Mike Baker]

Re: C3 - Radio Upgrade

In addition to Jacks suggestion, you might consider not installing a CD player and using a MP3 player with a FM transmitter instead.

Here's the way I use it. Copy the digital music from you CD to your PC (there is software to do this). Copy the music from the PC to the MP3 Player (I use an Apple IPod) The IPod has headphones or cables to attach it to your stereo. There is also an attachment that enables it to transmit on an un-used FM frequency. So, now by simply carrying the IPod and transmitter from House to car, to another car, to the office, your music goes with you.

Did I mention that it has enough memory to store 1000's of songs or that I disconnected the CD player from my home stereo.

Just something to think about.

http://www.apple.com/ipod

http://store.apple.com/1-800-MY-APPLE/WebObjects/AppleStore?productLearnMore=T7194LL/A

[Mark #28455]

Re: C3 - Radio Upgrade

You can fit a CD player in the dash but it won't be NCRS correct. Mid America Design lists CD players with a replacement gauge bezel so they fit in the stock location. I wonder if they would sell you the gauge bezel alone.

[Tony Merendino]

Re: C3 - Radio Upgrade

Custom Auto Sounds fit the bezel but that is the best you can say about them. Sound quality and FM reception leaves much to be desired. I finally had to cut the bezel and install a Pioneer P3500. 1000% improvement for about the same price. Will have to replace the bezel when judged but at least I can listen to some quality sounds when driving.

[Dave F.]

Re: Built my own....

Thanks jack. Sounds like the way to go - appreciate the tip.