I wholeheartedly admire your tenacity! An oscillating saw would have made this a 15 minute cutting job. They’re only $30 at Harbor Freight if anyone is wondering. Thank you for sharing your great video.
Thank you K Reese! I just installed a pioneer on my 2008 Ford E350 Heavy Duty Van. It works great! I just didn't know exactly how to attach the black wire. The directions said something different. But I counted your wire nuts and figured it out. Also I had to install the microphone before snapping in the radio. Also when cutting out into the dashboard, don't cut the sides:) Top and bottom is enough. Awesome job on explaining everything!
Thank you very much for the positive feedback! I am very glad it helped you and saved you some money because you did not have to take it to a shop. We are just people helping each other out! I did my best to explain everything and I am glad you got your stereo in your van. Please like and subscribe. Take care and have fun jamming those tunes!
This video has some good content for someone looking to tackle this install for themselves, But lacks in the technique department. 1. When removing the Ford stereo buy a set of Ford removal tools, Or stop by your local stereo store and ask them to pull it out.....DO NOT shove a bent coat hanger in there and screw up the mounting springs on the side of the radio, You will bend them and make the job of getting that radio out way more difficult than it needs to be. 2. Taking a saw zaw to your dash is a really bad idea.....Too big for this job, And just asking for trouble if you cut into a wire harness. A Dremel tool works okay if you have the right attachments, But the best tool I have found is a oscillating tool with a straight saw blade on it, It makes trimming the 3/4" off the top of the opening a snap, As well as cutting the top out of the inside of the radio cavity. I also cut the little 1/16" lip on the left and right side of the radio off, Then file that down as well. (This allows the Metra kit to snap in completely flush when locking it into the dash) 3. Should have used one of the two trim rings that also came with the Metra kit, This helps to position the radio in the dash lower......You will have to file or even remove ( I prefer to remove it) The little thin plastic bar that sits just below the radio opening, That separates it from the top of the climate controls. This positions the radio more correctly in the dash, And prevents from having to try filing the OEM dash piece to get it to fit over the top of the radio......And can easily make an otherwise good install, Quickly look like a hack job like you saw at the very end of this video. 30 years of doing this, You learn from your mistakes along the way.
Installing a double din in a 2000 navigator. I did everything with Dremel tool. I got it in place and went to put the trim after the instal kit trim wouldn't line up. Wouldn't fit. I was wondering if I needed to cut that bottom piece out. Thank you for commenting.
100% agree, I just did this yesterday and the actual stereo removal tool is cheap and easy to use. You can buy them at any auto parts store for like, 5$. For the cutting I used a Jig saw ( small blade, up and down) but a Dremel/oscillating blade would work even better. As for the little bit at the bottom above the climate controls, yeah I removed that plastic bit as well. The stereo just wouldn't fit straight and snug otherwise. I'd watched a lot of these video's but nobody ever seems to do that. Wish i'd read your comment before I started so I didn't have to figure that all out on the spot haha
That was definitely a lot of cutting and trimming. You have to cut out the plastic in the back as you did here to get the radio to go inside. However, you do not have to trim the top at all. Simply file down the bottom part of the plastic housing, just above the climate controls and the radio will then allow the trim piece to go back on after the radio is installed. If you had used the metra kit, you would have completely removed the bottom part of the plastic housing between the climate controls and the radio. Then the radio slides into place, slip the metra face plate over the radio, put your climate controls back in place, and install the 4 bolts. The top two will not only secure the climate controls, but they will also go through the tabs of the metra kit which will hold it all in place beautifully. Either method I spoke of is much easier. I have done this a few times now and I personally prefer the metra kit as they instruct it to be done. You can find the instructions on the metra website. I appreciate the fact you stuck with it and got it done, but it isn't necessary to have to trim the outer trim plate that houses the ac vents.
Thank you very much for the feedback. Sounds like I could have used your help with this project lol. I'll keep that in mind for the future. Sounds like that way would have been easier but I'm happy with the results and the effort I put into it makes it even more special when I climb into my truck and it's staring me in the face. Thanks for watching my video.
Man I'm glad I watched this. I'm gonna replace the stock stereo in my 2002. But I was not prepared for the amount of mod on the dash. That's alot more than I anticipated. I need to get more tools before attempting.
This is the same as the 1997-2002 Expedition. I have a 1998 Expedition and bought a Pioneer double-din stereo for it thinking it would be standard. Yeah, as you show, it isn't. I just finished the trimming and will get the install done tomorrow.
Thank you, good video. Wish I had seen this before I cut both top and bottom. Now I need the trim kit and side panels. I just used some metal snips and make cuts all along the top and then snipped the cuts off. Didn't have to drag out the dremmel and ext cord. I needed to know how to get the face of the dash off from around the radio too. Thanks
Kevin Reese , I actually had to super glue mine in. Nobody around here had the dash mount kit. It's a nice right fit though. Do you have any suggestions for what to put on the sides of the radio to fill the gap left between it and the fascia? It's about 3/8" on each side.
Jimmy Shomaker I would find a dash kit online if no one around you has one. They are less than 20 bucks, and it will make it look clean. That's the best way to fill that gap
I used a loose hack saw blade and cut that top section out of mine in about 10 minutes. Cut each corner up 3/8 of an inch, then from the center cut at 45 degrees and cut to ink mark then straighten out to corner. Then cut to the opposite corner and done.
I have the same truck except no 4WD and mine is a single din fold out highly recommend it it is way easyier to install and to BYPASS THE EBRAKE SWICH just take the wire and wrap it around something you plug into your cigarette lighter and it will work as if the EBRAKE is engaged
Kilo' Bae did you have the CD player put back into the radio? My 2000 lightning has one but i don’t know if I should get a new radio, and ditch it what did you do?
This was an awesome video. Very thorough and helpful. I might just have this video playing as I install my new radio. It's good to see that there is still great content on UA-cam.
Justin Smith I am glad it helped you out! Please like and subscribe! If you run into any problems, don't hesitate to drop a comment and I'll answer asap.
This is a perfect video on HOW NOT TO INSTALL A DOUBLE DIN STEREO, First off he did not have all the proper tools for the install and modifications. You can't use the drill and grinding wheel like that as it goes to fast and will burn the plastic. Best to use a Dremel tool where you can adjust the speed. Also, I don't know if anyone else noticed the two screws at the top corners of the radio mounting bracket. I would have just removed it and did the adjustment on a bench. The one most important part of this installation he did not show which was using the tools to remove the factory radio with. I have tried the coat hanger method and you need to have the ends perfectly aligned or it will not work. For this, I recommend purchasing the tools at either Walmart or Autozone or one of the automotive retail outlets. Also when I was in the Army we were taught never ever to twist wires together, when using either the type of compression nuts he had or the wire nuts you insert the end of the wires and then either twist the wires together with the wire nuts or if using compression nuts just slide the wires in and then using the tool compress it tight. But also the most important lesson about this is having proper fitment. Buy a radio that fits into a single DIN slot. This a single DIN slot. It is not worth causing any damage as he did to his dash and decreases the value of the truck or to make it look like a blind drunk monkey installed the radio. Boss makes excellent single DIN radios where the screen is motorized and goes in and out of the radio and is sturdy.
I disagree. Yes a Dremel tool would have been better and I have one now but at the time I did not. I think I was pretty clear with all the instructions. I do not know who told you in the army not to twist wires together, but this is how the majority of wiring is done. I agree with you, to do it perfect, I could have soldered the wires together and used heat shrink tubing. Even when soldering, you still put the two ends together and twist them. It is not absolutely necessary to solder them. I promise you if you take it to a professional shop, they are using wire nuts like I do in this video. Cheaper and faster, saves time, is easier, and still yields the overall same outcome. Everything still works as it did the day I installed it. Yes I still have the truck. As for the removal tool, I did use the tool from a stereo shop which my gf's dad owns. I had heard of the coat hanger trick, but it did not work for me either. Sorry this video was not helpful to you.
@@KReesethebeastim doing this now and thought it was a good video, the cutting of the bottom by the climate controls I saw in the comments was about the only thing that wasn’t in the vid
You can take that black radio/heater bracket out,it's only in there by 5 screws then the thing will come out that way you can trim it on the work bench "really easy to do" after you get the dash panels off. i was worried about messing that bracket cutting too much or something and thought,man if i mess this up i am done but they are replaceable at least in a 99 ford expedition.Just make a trip to the junk yard and get one if you mess it up or it was hacked from previous owner or decide you want to go back to stock.
I know this an old thread but I'm in the process of planning a 2 din Boss BV9384nv- dvd/cd, nav stereo unit in my 00 Expedition. Your hint on removing the a/c vent bracket ( the one the op hacked on, while still in the dash) and bench trimming it in order you not worry about cutting hidden wires is the best of this thread. imamusicmans hint regarding trimming the small portion of plastic just above the climate control panel in order the metra trim kit fit, and allow the unit to position correctly, for cd insertion and ease of sliding the unit into its location... is a close second. A honorable mention goes to whoever it was, suggesting that in order the dvd player be operable while moving forwards...that you skip linking it to the E-brake circuit and simply chassis ground the green wire. * disclaimer,,, Of course I'm not suggesting anyone follow his advice. +:)...in closing I'll beat a few knuckles and curse some...but these helpful hints will help lots, I'd like to especially thank the O.P for posting his install link whether anyone appreciates his sweat equity or not. If it hadn't been for him ...I'd of never stumbled onto the youtube link. Thanks to you all.........
Thank You K Reese! I am a "car guy" and handy but your video really helped! I watched it 5 times and armed with your guidance it went smoothly! Thanks again!
a trick to cutting plastic, take a torch to a utility knife blade, get it red hot, then it just melts through it like butter and you can get some nice clean cuts.
A lot of people don't know that you're suppose to cut the bottom bar off just above the heater controls, this will allow the radio to slide down far enough to expose the DVD slot more so it will be easier to slide a CD/DVD in and out
Thank you. I was planning on doing that but was concerned about keeping the stereo level so I left the base alone. I have not ran into any issues yet with removing or inserting a disc, but it is close fit. Thanks for watching.
Hey I have to say, you made it look good when you got finished. It wasn't easy for me the first one either..lol. I spent a lot of time on it, about 4 times the time I thought it would take. Overall, you did well.
Thanks for the video. I'm in the middle of installing a double din into my 2001 F150 and it was nice to see someone else have the same issue with the bracket in the back. A reality check is always helpful. Had mine out in a few minutes with a saws all and a metal cutting blade as the thin teeth work great on plastic. Gonna wait for the weekend to do the rest, have a nice shop on the weekends and I have quite a few loose ends like GPS and XM antennas plus a back up cam to get in place, not just the radio itself.
you cut 100% from the top of the opening to fit the radio. would it be better to center the install, cutting some from both top and bottom? Thanks for making your video, helps a lot.
That's great. It is a good feeling when you do the job yourself and every time you climb into your truck and see that nice stereo you know you did that. You can't get that if you take it to a shop. Glad this video helped you get yours done. Take care.
Thanks for the video, bro. Have a question, in my 03 Harley Davidson, now my issue is, I did all the wiring, BUT... at nite time IF any HEADLIGHTS are ON, stereo works fine. BUT if LIGHTS are OFF, stereo ll go on MUTE, If my headlights control is in position OFF its MUTE, it is ON or AUTOMATIC it’s not mute. Please help.!
good video, thanks for making it I enjoyed it. one comment or critique was the final edges around the stereo itself did not look good at all...there needs to be a way to clean that up. one question: when you slide the stereo unit into the opening what prevents it from falling down in the back? I didn't see where your brackets connected up into the truck. thanks and good job
Looking at the stereo from the front it is super clean, only when you lean down and look underneath can you see where I cut the dash and left it semi-smooth. I could have done it perfectly, but could not wait to finish it and crank the music up and cruise. To answer your question, I actually used a portion of the dash kit, just not the trim piece. The part of the kit that mounts to the side of the stereo catches the sides of the opening and prevents the stereo from going completely into the hole and falling into the back. I hope this helps. Thank you for watching.
Anyone looking to do this install, make enlarging the dash opening a whole lot easier and cleaner,, and use the right tool. You need a Dremel with a cutting disk, and a flex shaft. It'll take 60 seconds of cutting, if you're slow.
Installed the same double din deck in almost the same truck mines is a 2000 F-150 ext. cab step side. I'm going to attempt to hook up the reverse camera next wish you did that to lol.
If your replacing the radio just because it's not working, check the 15 amp Audio fuse at the top left side of the fuse panel. For some strange reason it's not the fuse marked in the manual as the radio fuse.
It is in the video, or either I made a separate video, search my channel, that video is in there because I did address it, I bought a special wire I think but I cannot remember what it was called.
The other little red plug that you didn’t plug in. Is that important? I’ve seen other videos where they installed their aftermarket stereos in ford without it and it worked fine. Do I really need to plug it in? The only diagram I found mentions nothing of it
I'm wondering the same. There are two on the factory. Why does the factory stereo have two if an aftermarket stereo only needs one? What does the other plug do?
That was my question. I decided to scroll through comments before posting. Glad I did. However, my vehicle came with 10 disk cd changer which will be rendered useless with aftermarket install. Isn't that typical of life? You win some, you lose some. Thanks for taking the time to help your fellow Man. All for one Bro.
The harness I got from the stereo shop has an orange and orange/white cord that the guide says is for dimmer and illumination but the harness from the stereo doesn’t have an orange or orange/white cord to connect to. And now after putting the stereo in while capping the orange ones my dash lights won’t turn on... any ideas on what to do with the orange cords?
I should also add that everything else works just fine with the stereo only problem is dash lights... didn’t notice till Recent as days got shorter and sorta dangerous to drive without seeing the speedometer. Have a 2002 F150
adamf2011 thank you for sharing that I actually have done that in the past on other projects but this was just too much plastic to cut! please like And subscribe!
Yes subscribe to my channel and then check out the video on my channel of how to bypass the parking brake so DVD player will operate at all times. This is a separate video I did. Thank you for watching.
Sure you can, I just installed a Pioneer AVH-X3700 in a 98 Expedition, just make sure that you cut the bottom bar just above the temperature control off for a perfect fit
Thank you for sharing I did my Navigator this morning, everything work out good but I got no bass ( very poor) would replacing the speakers make a difference? or do I need an amp?
Omar Blancas either way if you install a sub you will need an amp. If you replace your Factory door speakers with some nice aftermarket ones you can get a little more bassout of them but Power will still be limited to your factory stereo's output. You can always install an amp to power your aftermarket door speakers also and give them some extra punch.
Bogus Lawyer I'm pretty sure I power up a stock amp cause I had no sound at all after connecting all of the wires and then I found the amp trigger wire
I honestly cannot remember, but either will fit fine with some trimming. Thanks for watching. If you want you can search the specs online on this stereo to see the exact dimensions.
I wired the harness exactly as it says (twice) and both times my front speakers have BARELY any audio. I quickly plug my old stereo in and the speakers work perfectly. What's going on?
first I would check and make sure that your fade is set to the middle and not all the way to the rear on your new stereo. Next I would check and make sure that you have a good ground. lastly, you could have bought a bad stereo. hope this helps.
We took the harness off and hardwired it directly, and now we got the front driver and rear passenger working, but not the other 2. We also have to wire the 12v power to a 30 fuse because it wasn't working (was only getting 1.4v instead of constant 12) so now we're at a loss and taking it to a trusted stereo installation store lol...
no problem just trying to help. Let me know what they discover when you take it to the shop. I am sorry you had such a hard time with it. it is usually just plug and play with the wiring harness as long as you have a good ground and power and that all your colors and wires up.
So I have a f150 2001.. I'm trying to put a single in.. but there is this black cord that goes in the back? Not the antenna. A different cord, and idk what it is. Can anyone help me? There is an area for a cord like that to go but it does have the right slots. Like it's the perfect place for it to go just it's the wrong holes inside the cord. Anyone know what I'm talking about or do I sound crazy?
your description of the video says 2001 but you say the wiring adaptors for a 98 and its a single plug my 01 f150 has two what do i get or am I doing something wrong
David, most kits from my experience fit all model years of a particular vehicle. For example, this truck style was made from 1997 to 2003, so most kits should fit this style. Did you purchase yours from a stereo shop? They are usually very helpful and can make sure you get the right set up for your truck. Thanks for watching, let me know what you find out.
+chase Brunner No problem thanks for watching and be careful. Remember you can always take more off but you can not add any back, so take your time and go slow. If you run into any problems drop me a comment and I'll answer asap.
Hey I got a question do you really need the double din kit like it looks like the plastic things on the side really not doing anything does it just stop it from going to far in the back and falling out
sloppy cuts on that plastic dude. buy the right tools for the job. heck I would try to melt thru it with a soldering iron before i tried a Sawzall . ROTO ZIP or DREMEL maybe or even better one of those multi-tool oscillating saws? Anyway good video. I'm trying to figure out what the last guy did on my old 2000 F150. Aftermarket Pioneer won't come out...
You dont just match colors of the wires. On the stereo or in the instructions there should be a key which tells you what each wire is, dont just match wires, in my experience uou can run into issies that way, thanks fir the video, been a ling time since i installed a stereo in a truck.
If you make it really snug sometimes it is hard to get back out. Just keep working at it and once it is out trim some more off to make it easier to get out next time if you have to. Is your stereo Bluetooth?
+chase Brunner That is what I did. Not saying it is right or wrong, but I made my stereo fit so snug I did not need a trim kit although I purchased one just in case.
After about 5 years I’m finally installing my wife’s radio Thank you for this. Best video I’ve seen
Thank you!
@@KReesethebeast tie the break wire with the ground wire
@dustinkey8885 I bought a bypass cable and did a video on it, it works so you can play a DVD while driving
I wholeheartedly admire your tenacity! An oscillating saw would have made this a 15 minute cutting job. They’re only $30 at Harbor Freight if anyone is wondering. Thank you for sharing your great video.
I have the right tools now but was struggling at the time had to deal with what I had!
very thorough and helpful.. in making me really think twice about doing this.. but kudos to you kind sir!
Yes it was quite the task to take on. Thank you for watching, and if you decide to do it, comment back and let us all know! Take care.
Thank you K Reese! I just installed a pioneer on my 2008 Ford E350 Heavy Duty Van. It works great! I just didn't know exactly how to attach the black wire. The directions said something different. But I counted your wire nuts and figured it out. Also I had to install the microphone before snapping in the radio.
Also when cutting out into the dashboard, don't cut the sides:) Top and bottom is enough.
Awesome job on explaining everything!
Thank you very much for the positive feedback! I am very glad it helped you and saved you some money because you did not have to take it to a shop. We are just people helping each other out! I did my best to explain everything and I am glad you got your stereo in your van. Please like and subscribe. Take care and have fun jamming those tunes!
This video has some good content for someone looking to tackle this install for themselves, But lacks in the technique department. 1. When removing the Ford stereo buy a set of Ford removal tools, Or stop by your local stereo store and ask them to pull it out.....DO NOT shove a bent coat hanger in there and screw up the mounting springs on the side of the radio, You will bend them and make the job of getting that radio out way more difficult than it needs to be. 2. Taking a saw zaw to your dash is a really bad idea.....Too big for this job, And just asking for trouble if you cut into a wire harness. A Dremel tool works okay if you have the right attachments, But the best tool I have found is a oscillating tool with a straight saw blade on it, It makes trimming the 3/4" off the top of the opening a snap, As well as cutting the top out of the inside of the radio cavity.
I also cut the little 1/16" lip on the left and right side of the radio off, Then file that down as well. (This allows the Metra kit to snap in completely flush when locking it into the dash)
3. Should have used one of the two trim rings that also came with the Metra kit, This helps to position the radio in the dash lower......You will have to file or even remove ( I prefer to remove it) The little thin plastic bar that sits just below the radio opening, That separates it from the top of the climate controls. This positions the radio more correctly in the dash, And prevents from having to try filing the OEM dash piece to get it to fit over the top of the radio......And can easily make an otherwise good install, Quickly look like a hack job like you saw at the very end of this video. 30 years of doing this, You learn from your mistakes along the way.
Great info, thank you for sharing.
Please make a video of how to do on install like this on a 03 ford f150
@@FGO23 Should be the same.
Installing a double din in a 2000 navigator. I did everything with Dremel tool. I got it in place and went to put the trim after the instal kit trim wouldn't line up. Wouldn't fit. I was wondering if I needed to cut that bottom piece out. Thank you for commenting.
100% agree, I just did this yesterday and the actual stereo removal tool is cheap and easy to use. You can buy them at any auto parts store for like, 5$. For the cutting I used a Jig saw ( small blade, up and down) but a Dremel/oscillating blade would work even better. As for the little bit at the bottom above the climate controls, yeah I removed that plastic bit as well. The stereo just wouldn't fit straight and snug otherwise. I'd watched a lot of these video's but nobody ever seems to do that. Wish i'd read your comment before I started so I didn't have to figure that all out on the spot haha
That was definitely a lot of cutting and trimming. You have to cut out the plastic in the back as you did here to get the radio to go inside. However, you do not have to trim the top at all. Simply file down the bottom part of the plastic housing, just above the climate controls and the radio will then allow the trim piece to go back on after the radio is installed. If you had used the metra kit, you would have completely removed the bottom part of the plastic housing between the climate controls and the radio. Then the radio slides into place, slip the metra face plate over the radio, put your climate controls back in place, and install the 4 bolts. The top two will not only secure the climate controls, but they will also go through the tabs of the metra kit which will hold it all in place beautifully. Either method I spoke of is much easier. I have done this a few times now and I personally prefer the metra kit as they instruct it to be done. You can find the instructions on the metra website. I appreciate the fact you stuck with it and got it done, but it isn't necessary to have to trim the outer trim plate that houses the ac vents.
Thank you very much for the feedback. Sounds like I could have used your help with this project lol. I'll keep that in mind for the future. Sounds like that way would have been easier but I'm happy with the results and the effort I put into it makes it even more special when I climb into my truck and it's staring me in the face. Thanks for watching my video.
They make slim android touchscreens now they dont play CDs but with all the streaming capabilities these days you dont need cds.
Man I'm glad I watched this. I'm gonna replace the stock stereo in my 2002. But I was not prepared for the amount of mod on the dash. That's alot more than I anticipated. I need to get more tools before attempting.
I would recommend a dremel tool with a cutting disc, will make the whole job much easier. I have one now, but did not then, and man I wish I did!
@@KReesethebeast hey so only the one wiring block is necessary
@@joshhuskins5363 awesome
A very helpful video. Helps a lot to see it done to the same type of vehicle I have . I hope to make it look as good as you did. Thanks.
A Dremel or an oscillating multi tool will help alot!
This might be a year old video but I still appreciate that you made this it's so informative and helpful thanks so much keep up the good work
Thank you for the positive feedback and I am glad you found it helpful. This video has served its purpose.
This is the same as the 1997-2002 Expedition. I have a 1998 Expedition and bought a Pioneer double-din stereo for it thinking it would be standard. Yeah, as you show, it isn't. I just finished the trimming and will get the install done tomorrow.
Hope it turned out great!
Thank you, good video. Wish I had seen this before I cut both top and bottom. Now I need the trim kit and side panels. I just used some metal snips and make cuts all along the top and then snipped the cuts off. Didn't have to drag out the dremmel and ext cord. I needed to know how to get the face of the dash off from around the radio too. Thanks
amy manzo Hey I am glad this helped you out my friend.
Thank you so much for this video bro. You saved me allot of headache and you probably saved the guy at Wal Mart a much undeserved berating. God bless
Glad I could help you out my friend. Thank you for watching.
Kevin Reese , I actually had to super glue mine in. Nobody around here had the dash mount kit. It's a nice right fit though. Do you have any suggestions for what to put on the sides of the radio to fill the gap left between it and the fascia? It's about 3/8" on each side.
Jimmy Shomaker I would find a dash kit online if no one around you has one. They are less than 20 bucks, and it will make it look clean. That's the best way to fill that gap
Kevin Reese
Thanks once again
No problem
I used a loose hack saw blade and cut that top section out of mine in about 10 minutes. Cut each corner up 3/8 of an inch, then from the center cut at 45 degrees and cut to ink mark then straighten out to corner. Then cut to the opposite corner and done.
Sounds like you got it straight!
I have the same truck except no 4WD and mine is a single din fold out highly recommend it it is way easyier to install and to BYPASS THE EBRAKE SWICH just take the wire and wrap it around something you plug into your cigarette lighter and it will work as if the EBRAKE is engaged
interesting thanks for the tip!
Great video on how to wire
Thank you very much, I am glad this was helpful to you.
This exactly the type of video I was looking for !!!! Thanks!!
awesome!
Lifesaver man! Been trying to install a double din in my 2000 Ford Lightning!
glad you liked this bud.
Kilo' Bae did you have the CD player put back into the radio? My 2000 lightning has one but i don’t know if I should get a new radio, and ditch it what did you do?
DAMN DUDE!!! Exactly what I needed to see, you Rock!!
No problem man I'm glad I could help someone out.
+K Reese that is the exact stereo and truck I have.
This was an awesome video. Very thorough and helpful. I might just have this video playing as I install my new radio. It's good to see that there is still great content on UA-cam.
Justin Smith I am glad it helped you out! Please like and subscribe! If you run into any problems, don't hesitate to drop a comment and I'll answer asap.
Very helpful but imma be honest I did like what u did to the trim
I have a dremel now so I could do better jobs, but did what I had to with what I had!
Where does the second factory square plug go to or is it not needed?
That one is not needed if I did not explain hooking it up, I believe that one goes to the 6 disc cd changer that is in the center console.
Kevin Reese thx got it installed. Your video was a big help.
@@bladeguillotineclan5983 So happy I was able to help you with your project!
Great vid bro explain exactly step by step keel up the good vids👍🏽
Thanks, will do!
This is a perfect video on HOW NOT TO INSTALL A DOUBLE DIN STEREO, First off he did not have all the proper tools for the install and modifications. You can't use the drill and grinding wheel like that as it goes to fast and will burn the plastic. Best to use a Dremel tool where you can adjust the speed. Also, I don't know if anyone else noticed the two screws at the top corners of the radio mounting bracket. I would have just removed it and did the adjustment on a bench. The one most important part of this installation he did not show which was using the tools to remove the factory radio with. I have tried the coat hanger method and you need to have the ends perfectly aligned or it will not work. For this, I recommend purchasing the tools at either Walmart or Autozone or one of the automotive retail outlets. Also when I was in the Army we were taught never ever to twist wires together, when using either the type of compression nuts he had or the wire nuts you insert the end of the wires and then either twist the wires together with the wire nuts or if using compression nuts just slide the wires in and then using the tool compress it tight. But also the most important lesson about this is having proper fitment. Buy a radio that fits into a single DIN slot. This a single DIN slot. It is not worth causing any damage as he did to his dash and decreases the value of the truck or to make it look like a blind drunk monkey installed the radio. Boss makes excellent single DIN radios where the screen is motorized and goes in and out of the radio and is sturdy.
I disagree. Yes a Dremel tool would have been better and I have one now but at the time I did not. I think I was pretty clear with all the instructions. I do not know who told you in the army not to twist wires together, but this is how the majority of wiring is done. I agree with you, to do it perfect, I could have soldered the wires together and used heat shrink tubing. Even when soldering, you still put the two ends together and twist them. It is not absolutely necessary to solder them. I promise you if you take it to a professional shop, they are using wire nuts like I do in this video. Cheaper and faster, saves time, is easier, and still yields the overall same outcome. Everything still works as it did the day I installed it. Yes I still have the truck. As for the removal tool, I did use the tool from a stereo shop which my gf's dad owns. I had heard of the coat hanger trick, but it did not work for me either. Sorry this video was not helpful to you.
@@KReesethebeastim doing this now and thought it was a good video, the cutting of the bottom by the climate controls I saw in the comments was about the only thing that wasn’t in the vid
@Ray_Koren I hope you found it helpful my friend
You can take that black radio/heater bracket out,it's only in there by 5 screws then the thing will come out that way you can trim it on the work bench "really easy to do" after you get the dash panels off. i was worried about messing that bracket cutting too much or something and thought,man if i mess this up i am done but they are replaceable at least in a 99 ford expedition.Just make a trip to the junk yard and get one if you mess it up or it was hacked from previous owner or decide you want to go back to stock.
skulledmonte84 thanks for sharing. Please like And subscribe!
I know this an old thread but I'm in the process of planning a 2 din Boss BV9384nv- dvd/cd, nav stereo unit in my 00 Expedition. Your hint on removing the a/c vent bracket ( the one the op hacked on, while still in the dash) and bench trimming it in order you not worry about cutting hidden wires is the best of this thread. imamusicmans hint regarding trimming the small portion of plastic just above the climate control panel in order the metra trim kit fit, and allow the unit to position correctly, for cd insertion and ease of sliding the unit into its location... is a close second. A honorable mention goes to whoever it was, suggesting that in order the dvd player be operable while moving forwards...that you skip linking it to the E-brake circuit and simply chassis ground the green wire. * disclaimer,,, Of course I'm not suggesting anyone follow his advice. +:)...in closing I'll beat a few knuckles and curse some...but these helpful hints will help lots, I'd like to especially thank the O.P for posting his install link whether anyone appreciates his sweat equity or not. If it hadn't been for him ...I'd of never stumbled onto the youtube link. Thanks to you all.........
Thank You K Reese! I am a "car guy" and handy but your video really helped! I watched it 5 times and armed with your guidance it went smoothly! Thanks again!
Awesome glad this helped you!
a trick to cutting plastic, take a torch to a utility knife blade, get it red hot, then it just melts through it like butter and you can get some nice clean cuts.
That is a good idea. Since then I have a Dremel and an oscillating multi tool so I can do this type of work easily.
Wow brodie im 15 wantin to be a mechanic im learning tho but wow bro this is helpful💯💪🏾 i got the same kind too
Glad I could help
A lot of people don't know that you're suppose to cut the bottom bar off just above the heater controls, this will allow the radio to slide down far enough to expose the DVD slot more so it will be easier to slide a CD/DVD in and out
Thank you. I was planning on doing that but was concerned about keeping the stereo level so I left the base alone. I have not ran into any issues yet with removing or inserting a disc, but it is close fit. Thanks for watching.
You were right I cut bottom bar and broke the plastic out in the back and went right in no cutting top
I've seen a few installs where they cut the bottom but it didn't seem level. It covered some of the bottom and left a gap up top.
Did you cut through you cabin air vents?
Does your ac still work?
@@dandychickens8639 no did not xut vents and ac still works. I recharge it every summer, old compressor, but she's cold as ice.
Appreciate the video, now I know I’m cutting instead of wondering if amazon sent wrong radio, not like you can call anyone
You are absolutely right, we are on our own out here.
Would be amazing if link to the harness would be provided for both
I would just search online or go to a stereo shop
Hey I have to say, you made it look good when you got finished. It wasn't easy for me the first one either..lol. I spent a lot of time on it, about 4 times the time I thought it would take. Overall, you did well.
Thank you and yes I am happy with the finished product as well. I am glad you took the time on yours to get it just the way you want it.
Great info and video. Thanks for sharing!
Glad this helped you out. Please Subscribe to my channel to help me out! Take care.
Any idea how to take the it out? Like to put a different double din in.
The it?
Thanks for the video. I'm in the middle of installing a double din into my 2001 F150 and it was nice to see someone else have the same issue with the bracket in the back.
A reality check is always helpful. Had mine out in a few minutes with a saws all and a metal cutting blade as the thin teeth work great on plastic. Gonna wait for the weekend to do the rest, have a nice shop on the weekends and I have quite a few loose ends like GPS and XM antennas plus a back up cam to get in place, not just the radio itself.
Hey I am glad this video helped you out!
Nice job thanks a lot!
Glad this helped you my friend!
you cut 100% from the top of the opening to fit the radio. would it be better to center the install, cutting some from both top and bottom?
Thanks for making your video, helps a lot.
I wanted to only cut one spot, as to keep all my other lines straight and factory. Glad this video helped you out.
Installed a Kenwood double DIN. I had to remove virtually all from top and bottom to get it to fit into my 2011 Ranger.
Oh wow. Are you happy with the final result?
yes, I removed plastic slowly, top and bottom, until stereo just fit. When I slid it into position you can't see any edges of bezel.
That's great. It is a good feeling when you do the job yourself and every time you climb into your truck and see that nice stereo you know you did that. You can't get that if you take it to a shop. Glad this video helped you get yours done. Take care.
I took out the factory stereo and had two connectors to remove from the back. Is only on of the connectors used for aftermarket stereo?
One of the connectors is for the cd changer that is in the center console of select vehicles, for example, mine in this video. Merry Christmas!
thats true
Thanks for the video, bro. Have a question, in my 03 Harley Davidson, now my issue is, I did all the wiring, BUT... at nite time IF any HEADLIGHTS are ON, stereo works fine. BUT if LIGHTS are OFF, stereo ll go on MUTE, If my headlights control is in position OFF its MUTE, it is ON or AUTOMATIC it’s not mute. Please help.!
Bro, you need to check your wiring closely. That is a wiring issue for sure.
What size / inch stereo is that that you installed
I think around 7 inches
good video, thanks for making it I enjoyed it. one comment or critique was the final edges around the stereo itself did not look good at all...there needs to be a way to clean that up. one question: when you slide the stereo unit into the opening what prevents it from falling down in the back? I didn't see where your brackets connected up into the truck. thanks and good job
Looking at the stereo from the front it is super clean, only when you lean down and look underneath can you see where I cut the dash and left it semi-smooth. I could have done it perfectly, but could not wait to finish it and crank the music up and cruise. To answer your question, I actually used a portion of the dash kit, just not the trim piece. The part of the kit that mounts to the side of the stereo catches the sides of the opening and prevents the stereo from going completely into the hole and falling into the back. I hope this helps. Thank you for watching.
Where did u get the raptor harness
A local stereo shop. Most of them carry the harness needed for different vehicles. If they don't they can get you one.
Anyone looking to do this install, make enlarging the dash opening a whole lot easier and cleaner,, and use the right tool. You need a Dremel with a cutting disk, and a flex shaft. It'll take 60 seconds of cutting, if you're slow.
Would the disk be able to cut through all that plastic though?
Brandon Brown Yes. They make a plastic cutting wheel
Lol Makita cordless grinder, 10 seconds...
I have a dremel now, wish I had one then
yes they do I have one now
Use the flat head screws on the deck instead of the rounded ones.
Thanks for that info. Yes that would make more sense wouldn't it. I'll keep that in mind for the next install!
where did you get the space fillers for the right and left side of the stereo, i need to find some so my space can be filled.
I bought a dash trim kit for the truck, you can find them at any car audio shop.
Does anyone have a link to the harness he purchased, ive bought 3 that say they fit but none do
Are all double dins as big as this one..? Will you have to trim stuff no matter what..?
some stereos may fit in some vehicles better than others and each vehicle is different in regards to the modifications necessary. thanks for watching.
So you said you had a 98 f150 I have a 99 but I have the exact same wires and I’m not sure what I need to buy
I have an 01 but they are all same body style 97-03.
I got a 7 inch radio for my 2000 Ford f150 but the dash kit I ordered fit the truck but not the radio. What can I use for the dash it?
Make it work best way you can. or you could find a stereo shop and the guys in there should point you in the right direction.
Did you have to support the radio in the back side?
No I did not the stereo fit so snug after the install that it does not move at all.
+K Reese what size was the screen
Installed the same double din deck in almost the same truck mines is a 2000 F-150 ext. cab step side. I'm going to attempt to hook up the reverse camera next wish you did that to lol.
Yeah I am actually still debating on whether or not to hook one of those up haha. Thank you for watching.
The states I want says 12v and my truck 24 volts will that still work?
Better check with an audio shop to be sure. I know you can run a step down converter. You must have a diesel truck with 2 12v batteries I am assuming?
@@KReesethebeast yes
If your replacing the radio just because it's not working, check the 15 amp Audio fuse at the top left side of the fuse panel.
For some strange reason it's not the fuse marked in the manual as the radio fuse.
thx for the info, but I replaced mine because I wanted a new one with BT and touchscreen that plays DVDs
Do you have video of how you ran the by-pass for the dvd player?
I sure do. follow the link I posted in the description. Thank you for watching.
+K Reese , sorry to bother you again, I followed the link in the description and it looped back to you same video. (which was great)
+kepaloha I'm sorry you are having trouble. Just go to my channel if the link will not work. I have made a detailed video on the bypass.
+kepaloha all you got to do is just connect the green cable that says brake from stereo to a ground. (chassis) of any part of the vehicle..
Thought you were building a deck with that huge saw. Try a jig saw. Small, sharp, fast. Thx for video.
Oh yeah I have a dremel now I wish I had one then!
how did you bypass on the parking brake wire
It is in the video, or either I made a separate video, search my channel, that video is in there because I did address it, I bought a special wire I think but I cannot remember what it was called.
The other little red plug that you didn’t plug in. Is that important? I’ve seen other videos where they installed their aftermarket stereos in ford without it and it worked fine. Do I really need to plug it in? The only diagram I found mentions nothing of it
I'm wondering the same. There are two on the factory. Why does the factory stereo have two if an aftermarket stereo only needs one? What does the other plug do?
One of the plugs is for the factory cd changer that will not work with this stereo.
could be factory cd changer.
That was my question. I decided to scroll through comments before posting. Glad I did. However, my vehicle came with 10 disk cd changer which will be rendered useless with aftermarket install. Isn't that typical of life? You win some, you lose some. Thanks for taking the time to help your fellow Man. All for one Bro.
On mine I have 2 plugs for my factory radio. Can I wire them without the aftermarket harness.that fit over your plugs. I have a 01 Ford f 150 lariat
From experience, I would not suggest wiring in a stereo without using a wiring harness that plugs into your factory wiring harness.
What dash kit should I get?
Just get one that fits that model truck 97-03
The harness I got from the stereo shop has an orange and orange/white cord that the guide says is for dimmer and illumination but the harness from the stereo doesn’t have an orange or orange/white cord to connect to. And now after putting the stereo in while capping the orange ones my dash lights won’t turn on... any ideas on what to do with the orange cords?
I should also add that everything else works just fine with the stereo only problem is dash lights... didn’t notice till Recent as days got shorter and sorta dangerous to drive without seeing the speedometer. Have a 2002 F150
Sounds like they need to be connected to power.
try a hot razor blade to cut plastic it will leave a nice finish and no shavings!
adamf2011 thank you for sharing that I actually have done that in the past on other projects but this was just too much plastic to cut! please like And subscribe!
So do you leave the other harness unplugged?
Thanks for your question! Which part of the video are you referring to so I can better assist you?
11:32 are you leaving that other one unplugged, I’m referring to the red piece
I used four nails to pull out my stock stereo in my Ranger.
Yeah that works too. I tell you what though when you get that tool that is made for it in your hand it is amazing. Thanks for watching.
Great job of explaining and photographing. Excellent video
Thank you for watching and commenting. I'm glad you found this video helpful.
Is your Pioneer a 7" or 9" head unit?
It is about a 7 or so inch screen def not 9
Pretty good vid. Looks like a lot of cutting, but it isn’t going in without doing some cutting.
A dremel tool with a small cutting wheel is your friend, I have one now thank goodness.
Nice advice... appreciate you
Hey glad this helped you out!
Do you still have enough space for dvd and cds
Yes I do. Sorry I did not show that in the video, but there is still room to insert discs into the disc player. Thanks for watching.
Kevin Reese thanks kinda got scared when the stereo was bigger than the molding appreciate the vid very informative?👍👌
where did you get the pioneer radio from? and for how much??
I bought it from a stereo shop paid around $250
You can make the tool to remove the unit with just a metal coat hanger bent into the U shape.
That's what I thought too, but the cost hanger is not sturdy enough, it flexed too much. The tool is very solid steel, no flex. I had to use the tool.
do you know what wire or where the wire is ,that the wire for DVD operation connects to ?
Yes subscribe to my channel and then check out the video on my channel of how to bypass the parking brake so DVD player will operate at all times. This is a separate video I did. Thank you for watching.
Gracias my friend, I have a JVC double din stereo for my 2003 F-150.
Now I know how to do it, muchas gracias.
You are welcome! Glad this helped you.
nice video, very detailed.
Thank you very much, I'm glad you found it helpful.
I remember i elped a friend install a boss double din, man what a mess it made
Yep!
I installed mine but there no sound, turns on but no sound, can anyone help?
Definitely a professional job
Thank you.
I have a 1998 expedition could I put something that size in there
I'm not sure without seeing a picture.
Sure you can, I just installed a Pioneer AVH-X3700 in a 98 Expedition, just make sure that you cut the bottom bar just above the temperature control off for a perfect fit
+TimbeauArt Thanks for the comment.
yellow/red sharpie?
those still do not show up that great on dark backgrounds.
I cut my dash to wide . Any solution to this problem
Buy a new dash unfortunately or get one from a junkyard, or maybe a stereo dash kit to hide the gaps.
Is a 99 Lincoln Navigator similar to this car
Omar Blancas yes it is. All Ford Lincoln Mercury are very similar.
Thank you for sharing I did my Navigator this morning, everything work out good but I got no bass ( very poor) would replacing the speakers make a difference? or do I need an amp?
Omar Blancas either way if you install a sub you will need an amp. If you replace your Factory door speakers with some nice aftermarket ones you can get a little more bassout of them but Power will still be limited to your factory stereo's output. You can always install an amp to power your aftermarket door speakers also and give them some extra punch.
The Navigator has a stock amp and sub. The audio feed may not go to the sub because it might have an extra input that you didnt plug in/.
Bogus Lawyer I'm pretty sure I power up a stock amp cause I had no sound at all after connecting all of the wires and then I found the amp trigger wire
Is this a 6.2” or a 7”?
I honestly cannot remember, but either will fit fine with some trimming. Thanks for watching. If you want you can search the specs online on this stereo to see the exact dimensions.
Okay thanks. Appreciate the help
Seth Cline No problem
How big is the screen on that radio?
I think they call this a 7in
damn Ford for this!
I know!
Installed mine now the headlights won't turn on when the radio ia on like it loses signal
Check your wiring there partner, sounds like something is off
ok thanks. very helpful video.great job.
No problem and thanks for watching.
I wired the harness exactly as it says (twice) and both times my front speakers have BARELY any audio. I quickly plug my old stereo in and the speakers work perfectly. What's going on?
first I would check and make sure that your fade is set to the middle and not all the way to the rear on your new stereo. Next I would check and make sure that you have a good ground. lastly, you could have bought a bad stereo. hope this helps.
We took the harness off and hardwired it directly, and now we got the front driver and rear passenger working, but not the other 2. We also have to wire the 12v power to a 30 fuse because it wasn't working (was only getting 1.4v instead of constant 12) so now we're at a loss and taking it to a trusted stereo installation store lol...
sorry you are having trouble and that sounds like the best course of action for you at this point.
Thanks and thanks for responding so quickly.
no problem just trying to help. Let me know what they discover when you take it to the shop. I am sorry you had such a hard time with it. it is usually just plug and play with the wiring harness as long as you have a good ground and power and that all your colors and wires up.
So I have a f150 2001.. I'm trying to put a single in.. but there is this black cord that goes in the back? Not the antenna. A different cord, and idk what it is. Can anyone help me? There is an area for a cord like that to go but it does have the right slots. Like it's the perfect place for it to go just it's the wrong holes inside the cord. Anyone know what I'm talking about or do I sound crazy?
*doesnt have the right slots
I think that is the one for the cd changer in the center console.
your description of the video says 2001 but you say the wiring adaptors for a 98 and its a single plug my 01 f150 has two what do i get or am I doing something wrong
David, most kits from my experience fit all model years of a particular vehicle. For example, this truck style was made from 1997 to 2003, so most kits should fit this style. Did you purchase yours from a stereo shop? They are usually very helpful and can make sure you get the right set up for your truck. Thanks for watching, let me know what you find out.
The second connector is for the CD Changer. On my Lightning it goes to right behind the passengers seat.
i have ford expedition 2005, looking for adapter aux input who is i need??
Check with your local car stereo shop is what I would do first. Thanks for watching.
Okay cool well I just ordered me a pioneer radio so I will trim my dash up some see if I can get it to work with out the trim thanks for the video
+chase Brunner No problem thanks for watching and be careful. Remember you can always take more off but you can not add any back, so take your time and go slow. If you run into any problems drop me a comment and I'll answer asap.
Hey I got a question do you really need the double din kit like it looks like the plastic things on the side really not doing anything does it just stop it from going to far in the back and falling out
At 17 minutes 30 seconds approximately I show where I did not need the trim kit due to the snug fit I encountered. Thank you for watching.
+K Reese you still used parts of it on the side of the radio.. so you did use the dash kit. at least part of it
"To get it out, you'll have to use a little bit of force. I'll show you what that looks like" xD
Dropped Thor's hammer on it!
sloppy cuts on that plastic dude. buy the right tools for the job. heck I would try to melt thru it with a soldering iron before i tried a Sawzall . ROTO ZIP or DREMEL maybe or even better one of those multi-tool oscillating saws? Anyway good video. I'm trying to figure out what the last guy did on my old 2000 F150. Aftermarket Pioneer won't come out...
Gotta do what you gotta do sometimes dude.
You dont just match colors of the wires. On the stereo or in the instructions there should be a key which tells you what each wire is, dont just match wires, in my experience uou can run into issies that way, thanks fir the video, been a ling time since i installed a stereo in a truck.
You are correct
If you are watching this, get an oscillating saw and save yourself a day.
thanks ,for your video my friend i do the same thing on my f150,...
No problem, thanks for checking it out. Hope it helped you.
well i did it but forgot to hook up my aux and now i cant get my radio out . any ideas?
If you make it really snug sometimes it is hard to get back out. Just keep working at it and once it is out trim some more off to make it easier to get out next time if you have to. Is your stereo Bluetooth?
U had to cut the bottom portion to get it set right. I would use a dermal don’t use a drill or sawzaw
I didn't have a dremel at the time but I do now and it would have been much easier!
Kevin Reese great video by the way!
@@handymenprotv5510 Thank you!
Wait, how do you bypass the parking brake
I have a separate video on that. You can purchase an aftermarket wire that will bypass it.
Okay thanks so I don't need to buy a double din kit I can just cut what I need to cut and slide it in
+chase Brunner That is what I did. Not saying it is right or wrong, but I made my stereo fit so snug I did not need a trim kit although I purchased one just in case.