C-1 Wonderbar Radio

[Kevin T.]

My 59 has an aftermarket radio/cassette player for Corvettes that was designed to fit in the original opening. However, it looks a little out of place.

I am considering replacing it with something that is, or looks more correct. I see unrestored Wonderbar radios that appear to be in decent cosmetic shape selling on ebay for $400-500. I assume they will require a couple hundred bucks to have someone reputable restore them. I am not prepared to pay $1,300 for a fully restored one, as some vendors are selling.

While I enjoy my music as I am cruising down the road, there is not much on the AM dial I am interested in listening to. Additionally, I don't get a great sound through the single speaker mounted in the dash with the top down.

I understand those old Wonderbar units can be a pain to work and maintain. From what I read in an old Restorer article, the 58-60 units were particularly problematic.

I found a vendor that sells reproduction Wonderbar units with modern features such as FM reception, CD changer hookups, etc. I also understand iPods have an accessory that will transmit your music to a certain frequency on your radio, which is very intriguing.

I would be appreciative and interested in any thoughts regarding the subject and this particular vendor's products. Thanks. - Kevin

http://www.antiqueautomobileradio.com/

[Loren Smith]

Re: C-1 Wonderbar Radio

Thanks for the link. Those Wonderbars would look super-cool in a resto-rod.

[Debra P.]

Re: C-1 Wonderbar Radio

Thanks Kevin,
I just called & ordered one for my 58. I spoke to Peggy, she was very knowledgable & nice. I will hook it up ASAP, delivery next week. It will cost me 698.00 w/overnite FED-EX. As you can tell I am very excited. I wanted to have good tunes for the ride to the National in Park City. I will be meeting up with the NCRS contigent from Florida, and we will hook up in Page Arizona. The tour group letter mentions having, CB radio or FRS. I do nont know what FRS is, so if anyone can give me FRS info I would appreciate it. I will report to you all on how it works out.
Deb

[Robert Willis]

Re: C-1 Wonderbar Radio

I have one of those conversions in my 57. It works great.

But I'm thinking maybe it's better to buy it in Canada, with the exchange on the money you may be ahead of the game.

Bob

[Rick S.]

Re: C-1 Wonderbar Radio

About 6 yrs ago I had them convert the AM radio to my 66 GTO to a AM/FM and I was extremely happy with the results.
Rick

[Don H.]

The Road Tour uses

CB and FRS (which is Motorola Talkabout style radios). I have used a hand held CB and Motorola radios with good results. Don H.

[John H.]

Re: The Road Tour uses

If you locate a replacement radio, DO NOT HAVE IT RESTORED BY
WONDERBARMAN IN TENNESSE. He is a rip off artist. He over charged me
$125 with a line of bs that you wouldn't believe.
WONDERBARMAN is also listed in our NCRS Driveline I am sad to say.
Stay away from him. Big John