Stereo Install

[BlackBeauty_bb]

Just want to do this right. So I'm finally going to install a new stereo in my Marauder tomorrow and I just had a quick question for all of you who have done the install already. I have the wiring harness and the installation kit and my deck ready to go. Am I missing anything else? for any other car I know I'd be set. But since this is my first Marauder and I've seen how unique they can be, I just had to ask. Excuse my inexperience with these cars.

[Gryphonzus]

Does the wiring harness have the cables to connect the steering wheel controls? If not you will need to look into that if you still want those controls to work.

[fastblackmerc]

You'll need some things to make your install a little cleaner and professional looking.

Double DIN install kit - I used a Scosche FD1330B or FD1330
Power and speaker connector - I used a Scosche FD23B and I soldered and used heatshrink tube on all the connections.
Steering wheel controls interface - I used a PAC-Audio interface that was specific to the radio manufacturer. There are also other manufacturer's that make those interface units.

The install
I am assuming that you've already removed the OEM headunit, have the power and speaker connection(s) made to the new headunit using the aftermarket adapter.

You will need to remove the small lips at the top and bottom of the headunit opening. I used a utility knife, scoring the lip repeatedly until it detached.

You will need to remove the headunit surround. There is a shelf inside under the headunit opening, you'll need to remove about 1/3 of the back of it so all the new wiring and interface will fit. I used a Dremel tool to remove it.

To install the new headunit, you screw one of the side panels onto the headunit, insert the headunit in the opening and then install the other side panel and secure it to the headunit. There are slots in the side panels that fit into the opening in the surround that lock the new headunit in place. If you need to remove the surround in the future the entire headunit will have to be taken out along with the surround.

You can now reinstall the surround and headunit assembly, making the connections and fitting all the wires and interface behind and below the headunit.

[BlackBeauty_bb]

Thank you guys! took everyones advice and my install is complete. Already loving the difference.

[fastblackmerc]

Thank you guys! took everyones advice and my install is complete. Already loving the difference.

If you haven't already, upgrade the speakers.

[BlackBeauty_bb]

Yes Sir I took advantage of the day and did all 4 speakers. 6x8 Pioneers. nothing special but a night and day difference without a doubt to the OEM.

[510paesan]

Everyone always harps on the OEM speakers in theses cars. I have not found a need to change them yet. Not the worst stock stereo in a vehicle I've owned. Just my opinion of course

[BlackBeauty_bb]

Everyone always harps on the OEM speakers in theses cars. I have not found a need to change them yet. Not the worst stock stereo in a vehicle I've owned. Just my opinion of course

I'm sure I would agree with you. The only issue with two of my OEMs was that the rears were already going bad. I know I didn't mention that.