to cut the dash for radio, or not? - Page 2 - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

1985-GMC · 12-21-2012, 01:58 AM

Or spend 20 bucks for a stock one that sounds fine.

king-918 · 12-21-2012, 12:46 PM

Cut it our trucks are not that kind of classic. I couldn't handle a crappy radio
Posted via Mobile Device

**LEEVON** · 12-21-2012, 03:53 PM

I'm cutting my dash in about 3 hours. I was a good kid once. It all started when I removed that matress tag...

68Timber · 12-21-2012, 03:55 PM

I've cut one but won't do it again, no need to with retrosound radios. With a small amp and a few speakers, it'll play local radio and ipod fine.

Hubscrub · 12-22-2012, 01:04 AM

i cut mine using a crutchfield kit looks good but if it was now i wouldn't do it i don't see the point anymore with cd on it's way out and stock looks better i might weld mine up someday. I'm got to weld up my wife's 67 radio hole some butt cut in it first. btw you can get a radio that fits with the mp3 etc. for around $149.00 and up

i'm not trying to wake up the neighborhood with my tunes anyways.

83GMCK2500 · 12-22-2012, 01:16 AM

I would suggest finding a 90/91 (I think that is the range) V-series 1.5 Din dash and bezel. Drill out some spot welds, unbolt the dashes, swap, and you'd have factory 1.5 din opening.

Johnny Merder · 12-22-2012, 08:33 AM

I used a Kicker PXi50.2, its kind of like a controller for MP3/iphone/ipod for your truck. It is small, easy to hook up and you can leave your stock radio in place if desired.

Johnny Merder · 12-22-2012, 08:40 AM

I have an extra one not installed yet if anyone needs any info or measurements.

88Jimmy4x4 · 12-22-2012, 09:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BRUISER

I've cut one but won't do it again, no need to with retrosound radios. With a small amp and a few speakers, it'll play local radio and ipod fine.

exactly

Redcap · 12-22-2012, 01:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Johnny Merder

I have an extra one not installed yet if anyone needs any info or measurements.

Actually, yes...I would like a HxWxD measurement. Halfway considering it for my truck, even though the dash is already cut for a single DIN head unit.

Johnny Merder · 12-22-2012, 03:09 PM

The ECU is 5 inches high and 3 inches wide and 2 inches tall. The control panel is 4 inches by 1.5 inches and .5 inches thick. The only thing you loose is actual radio function, where I live that isn't loosing much.

Johnny Merder · 12-22-2012, 03:12 PM

I can supply many more details if needed.

74 stepside · 12-22-2012, 03:22 PM

I can see both sides as to cut or leave it OG. Im going with the new retro 2 post with the mp3/Ipod hook ups. Not just to keep it clean and original looking, but also to help keep the stereo thieves away. 99% of the time if they see what looks like an old 2 post radio, they wont bother trying to steel it.

Redcap · 12-22-2012, 03:25 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 74 stepside

I can see both sides as to cut or leave it OG. Im going with the new retro 2 post with the mp3/Ipod hook ups. Not just to keep it clean and original looking, but also to help keep the stereo thieves away. 99% of the time if they see what looks like an old 2 post radio, they wont bother trying to steel it.

Now that is an excellent point.

**LEEVON** · 12-22-2012, 05:23 PM

Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap!

**LEEVON** · 12-22-2012, 05:46 PM

I went ahead and did a write-up in the FAQ:

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=557353

Vixvega · 12-22-2012, 09:17 PM

mounted aftermarket stereo head unit with inputs in the glove box. and actually went to a junkyard and bought a a factory AM radio and dremel tooled the mounting point from totalled truck.. I like factory.

1985-GMC · 12-22-2012, 09:24 PM

Yeah I just added the AUX input in my stock radio and I love it. I don't have but a few CDs anyway so using my Ipod works out fine for me.

THE "10" SILVERADO · 12-22-2012, 10:41 PM

I wish single DIN units would tuck up in the 78 style bezel. Each "section" is sunk in with trim around it and the units rub on the bottom right. Your install looks great though.

UBLUZIN · 12-23-2012, 07:10 PM

Is there an easy way of adding ipod hookup to and old 2 post radio?

bigwheel15 · 12-24-2012, 01:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by UBLUZIN

Is there an easy way of adding ipod hookup to and old 2 post radio?

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=229621

76stepsidechevy · 12-24-2012, 11:51 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LEEVON

Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap!

Looks good, I used the same kit and only made horizontal cuts and just folded the tabs in. If I ever decide I want to go back to a shaft style radio its as easy as bending the tabs back and a few tacks.

Smoke_Dog · 12-24-2012, 06:20 PM

Do this!!!

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lone_Star

I went with Retro Sound - http://www.retrosoundusa.com/
Used a Mobile One in a Datsun, and most recently a Zuma in the truck. Both have multiple axillary inputs, RCA outputs for amps, and you can adjust the shaft spacing as needed.

Smoke_Dog · 12-24-2012, 06:22 PM

This is what I did with the Chevelle I have too!!!

Quote:

Originally Posted by notallthere

If I had a choice I would just order a retro sound like I did with the Chevelle.

1985-GMC · 12-25-2012, 01:54 AM

Or this: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=447435

This way you still have AM/FM but now you can plug your Ipod in the new AUX phone jack and listed to tunes this way too.

12-21-2012, 01:58 AM	#26
1985-GMC Chevy Enthusiast Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Canyon Lake Texas Posts: 2,024	Re: to cut the dash for radio, or not? Or spend 20 bucks for a stock one that sounds fine. __________________ Tony 1985 GMC K2500 restoration Project: Rust, White & Blue 1989 Chevy R3500 CC Cummins & 4X4 swap some day... 1989 Burb (D60, 14BFF, 12V, NV4500, NP205, 37" tires in progress)

12-21-2012, 12:46 PM	#27
king-918 Registered User Join Date: Nov 2011 Location: Oklahoma City Oklahoma Posts: 1,056	Re: to cut the dash for radio, or not? Cut it our trucks are not that kind of classic. I couldn't handle a crappy radio Posted via Mobile Device __________________ <----Christopher My Tardis Oh yeah I'm really a Toyota guy, but had some stuff sitting around. Oklahoma

12-21-2012, 03:53 PM	#28
LEEVON Moderator Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Ozark, MO Posts: 4,888	Re: to cut the dash for radio, or not? I'm cutting my dash in about 3 hours. I was a good kid once. It all started when I removed that matress tag... __________________ '20 Silverado Trail Boss ~ '17 Tahoe ~ '79 K15 Sierra Grande ~ '76 Blazer 2wd ~ '71 Cheyenne swb ~ '55 Pontiac Safari ~'50 3100 bagged ~ '80 Wife ~ Late model kids

12-21-2012, 03:55 PM	#29
68Timber I know the pieces fit Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: MONTGOMERY, AL Posts: 5,523	Re: to cut the dash for radio, or not? I've cut one but won't do it again, no need to with retrosound radios. With a small amp and a few speakers, it'll play local radio and ipod fine. __________________ John 79 2wd Blazer (Bruiser) 85 M1009 Blazer (Sarge) build 74 Honda Z50 build

12-22-2012, 01:04 AM	#30
Hubscrub Cruzin Join Date: Dec 2009 Location: on the road Posts: 2,835	Re: to cut the dash for radio, or not? i cut mine using a crutchfield kit looks good but if it was now i wouldn't do it i don't see the point anymore with cd on it's way out and stock looks better i might weld mine up someday. I'm got to weld up my wife's 67 radio hole some butt cut in it first. btw you can get a radio that fits with the mp3 etc. for around $149.00 and up i'm not trying to wake up the neighborhood with my tunes anyways. __________________ Lime Wife's 67https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=...wZEMODaS2d94u8 Back to the Fifties 59 https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=...NAeStpydfrcj_U Proverbs 3:5,6 "Thanks to the Interstate Highway System, it is now possible to travel across the country from coast to coast without seeing anything."Charles Kuralt In memory of our first baby daughter, daddy and mommy love you. Danica Grace 6/26/14

12-22-2012, 01:16 AM	#31
83GMCK2500 Registered User Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: Beaverton, OR from WA State Posts: 1,515	Re: to cut the dash for radio, or not? I would suggest finding a 90/91 (I think that is the range) V-series 1.5 Din dash and bezel. Drill out some spot welds, unbolt the dashes, swap, and you'd have factory 1.5 din opening. __________________ Devin 1983 GMC High Sierra 2500, 4x4, RC/LB, 400 S.B., SM-465, NP-208, Corporate 10 bolt & 9.5" 14 bolt 1996 GMC Sierra SLE 3500 DRW, 4x4, EC/LB, Vortec 454, NV-4500, BW-4401, AAM 925 & AAM 1050 1997 GMC Sierra SLT 1500 4x4, Z71/F44, EC/SB, Vortec 350 My Introduction with my '83s History New Daily, the '96

12-22-2012, 08:33 AM	#32
Johnny Merder Registered User Join Date: Jun 2011 Location: Jasper, In Posts: 109	Re: to cut the dash for radio, or not? I used a Kicker PXi50.2, its kind of like a controller for MP3/iphone/ipod for your truck. It is small, easy to hook up and you can leave your stock radio in place if desired. Attached Images Last edited by Johnny Merder; 12-22-2012 at 08:38 AM. Reason: Forgot Pic

12-22-2012, 08:40 AM	#33
Johnny Merder Registered User Join Date: Jun 2011 Location: Jasper, In Posts: 109	Re: to cut the dash for radio, or not? I have an extra one not installed yet if anyone needs any info or measurements.

12-22-2012, 03:09 PM	#36
Johnny Merder Registered User Join Date: Jun 2011 Location: Jasper, In Posts: 109	Re: to cut the dash for radio, or not? The ECU is 5 inches high and 3 inches wide and 2 inches tall. The control panel is 4 inches by 1.5 inches and .5 inches thick. The only thing you loose is actual radio function, where I live that isn't loosing much.

12-22-2012, 03:12 PM	#37
Johnny Merder Registered User Join Date: Jun 2011 Location: Jasper, In Posts: 109	Re: to cut the dash for radio, or not? I can supply many more details if needed.

12-22-2012, 03:22 PM	#38
74 stepside Registered User Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: SoCal Posts: 815	Re: to cut the dash for radio, or not? I can see both sides as to cut or leave it OG. Im going with the new retro 2 post with the mp3/Ipod hook ups. Not just to keep it clean and original looking, but also to help keep the stereo thieves away. 99% of the time if they see what looks like an old 2 post radio, they wont bother trying to steel it.

12-22-2012, 05:23 PM	#40
LEEVON Moderator Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Ozark, MO Posts: 4,888	Re: to cut the dash for radio, or not? Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap! Attached Images __________________ '20 Silverado Trail Boss ~ '17 Tahoe ~ '79 K15 Sierra Grande ~ '76 Blazer 2wd ~ '71 Cheyenne swb ~ '55 Pontiac Safari ~'50 3100 bagged ~ '80 Wife ~ Late model kids

12-22-2012, 05:46 PM	#41
LEEVON Moderator Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Ozark, MO Posts: 4,888	Re: to cut the dash for radio, or not? I went ahead and did a write-up in the FAQ: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=557353 __________________ '20 Silverado Trail Boss ~ '17 Tahoe ~ '79 K15 Sierra Grande ~ '76 Blazer 2wd ~ '71 Cheyenne swb ~ '55 Pontiac Safari ~'50 3100 bagged ~ '80 Wife ~ Late model kids

12-22-2012, 09:17 PM	#42
Vixvega Registered User Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: Fogelsville, Pa. Posts: 68	Re: to cut the dash for radio, or not? mounted aftermarket stereo head unit with inputs in the glove box. and actually went to a junkyard and bought a a factory AM radio and dremel tooled the mounting point from totalled truck.. I like factory.

12-22-2012, 09:24 PM	#43
1985-GMC Chevy Enthusiast Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Canyon Lake Texas Posts: 2,024	Re: to cut the dash for radio, or not? Yeah I just added the AUX input in my stock radio and I love it. I don't have but a few CDs anyway so using my Ipod works out fine for me. __________________ Tony 1985 GMC K2500 restoration Project: Rust, White & Blue 1989 Chevy R3500 CC Cummins & 4X4 swap some day... 1989 Burb (D60, 14BFF, 12V, NV4500, NP205, 37" tires in progress)



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12-22-2012, 10:41 PM	#44
THE "10" SILVERADO Registered User Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: Marble Falls, TX Posts: 1,575	Re: to cut the dash for radio, or not? I wish single DIN units would tuck up in the 78 style bezel. Each "section" is sunk in with trim around it and the units rub on the bottom right. Your install looks great though. Attached Images __________________ Michael Re-starting the neglected '77...http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...=425464&page=9

12-23-2012, 07:10 PM	#45
UBLUZIN Registered User Join Date: Apr 2011 Location: PA Posts: 41	Re: to cut the dash for radio, or not? Is there an easy way of adding ipod hookup to and old 2 post radio?

12-25-2012, 01:54 AM	#50
1985-GMC Chevy Enthusiast Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Canyon Lake Texas Posts: 2,024	Re: to cut the dash for radio, or not? Or this: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=447435 This way you still have AM/FM but now you can plug your Ipod in the new AUX phone jack and listed to tunes this way too. __________________ Tony 1985 GMC K2500 restoration Project: Rust, White & Blue 1989 Chevy R3500 CC Cummins & 4X4 swap some day... 1989 Burb (D60, 14BFF, 12V, NV4500, NP205, 37" tires in progress)

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