Replace Radio Speakers

[George C.]

Does anyone have any tricks to remove the dash pad for replacement of the radio speakers?

I have the removal instructions, but the only thing that worries me is the step to "push up on the center of the dash pad to get it to clear the side post." I have the original dash pad and I believe pushing up on it will crack it.

Also, any recommendations on who to use for AM/FM radio restoration?

[Anthony F.]

Re: Replace Radio Speakers

As you probably know, the passenger side speaker is not an issue.

I was not able to bend the dash pad enough to clear the side posts. However, I was able to get get it high enough to get access to the speaker speed nuts, and was able to remove the driver side speaker and install the replacement. if you can gently warm the dash pad that helps it flex, but be careful, at some point it may crack. Have some extra speed nuts available, it's a tight fit and you may may lose a few behind the dash, it can be tricky to get the rear ones in place.

Perhaps another poster knows a way to get the dash pad out, but in my case, that sucker was not going to clear the side posts without cracking.

As for restoration, I replaced my radio with a new unit purchased from Retro Radio Restoration in Pennsylvania. It looks very close to the factory radio, and works well. They do restoration, and I may use them when I eventually decide to restore my original radio. If you search the forum, you will find posts with information on other reputable restorers.

Good luck.

[Rey S.]

Re: Replace Radio Speakers

Hi George
I don't know where you located but I took my C-2 radio and speakers to a gentleman in Adelanto Ca.( So. Cal. ) to have my original units rebuilt including new paper cones in the speakers. He is a little slow but does good work. If interested let me know and I will give you his contact information.

[Frank D.]

Re: Replace Radio Speakers

If you go with repro speakers this is the only place I buy mine from:

http://www.turnswitch.com/speakers.htm

[Erich M.]

Re: Replace Radio Speakers

George,

I replaced my speakers back in 2011 and I remember it was a difficult task. I was unable to completely remove the upper dash and I would not recommend you do that if you have an original upper dash. I had to replace my heater core at the same time so had to remove the center gage cluster in order to replace my heater core. This gave me additional access to the left speaker with the center instrument cluster removed.


The upper dash has clips holding it to the window frame. You need to disengage these clips from the upper dash in order to push it up far enough to gain access to the left speaker. I would not recommend bending or removing the the dash. I had to lower the driver's side dash pad and steering column in order to get enough of a gap between the upper dash pad and the driver's side instrument dash pad to permit access to the speaker.

Erich Meyer
Original Owner '72 LT1 Bowtie & Top Flight