OK Guys and Gals Here is my delema, I have a 1970 roadster, with what I believe is an original radio (non working) and Gauge cluster. I really would like a decent sound system with cd player and such, but do not wish to cut open the original Gauge cluster as there only original once. The car is not SO PRISTINE that I would ever make it a 99 point car so I may as well make it enjoyable to me. I see you can get a repop cluster that has an opening for DIN 1 radios with will work for me just fine. Are the originals worth enough so that I can afford to get a new cluster $200, and a decent radio $250-300? if I sell the originals?   the other thing I can do is buy a radio and set it in the back...maybe in a compartemnet or just mount in a box hidden in the back and use a remote....although I dont know if remotes work if you are not pointing them derectly at the stereo, so that has its own problems as well as aukward loading of the cd. I am sure some of you out there have done some very good setups so just looking for ideas as what is the best way.  THANKS  "E"

Here ya go:

http://lmgtfy.com/?q=classic+car+radios




|UPDATED|5/6/2013 10:55:23 AM (AZT)|/UPDATED|


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I strongly recommend this option. http://www.mamotorworks.com/corvette-c3-oe-reproduction-radios+1969+1976-am-fm-stereo-upgrade-1-307-11234.html Not sure that link will work since I'm entering it from my iPad, but if not, maybe someone will fix it... Anyway, I think the above is a great option. This looks just like your original and gives you the updated sound you're looking for. CD Player? No, but you have a connection for an iPod, or, if you want, you could also use a portable CD player. Years ago I had my original radio pulled and rebuilt with modern circuitry which is basically the same idea as this, but with this, you get to keep your original radio.

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I wanted a Corvette my whole life, but I never dreamed of all the wonderful people I would meet because of it!

If your wantin to keep it original, I did. I found Precision Stereo Repair add in Hemmings.

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Here is a suggestion; this is my '74.  It will work on Sharks up to '76.

I used a Custom Autosound radio and Autometer 2" gauges.  Both fit in the car with no modification of the original bezel.  To keep the functionality of the seatbelt warning lights I got a little creative with the rear of the panel (pics on request).

The radio is awesome.  It has an original appearance from a distance, including an AM dial, but when you turn it on an LED display appears in the dial.  It plays USB sticks and has an auxiliary input.  I ran front dashpad speakers directly from it, and used the rear preamp outs to feed an amp and 6x9" speakers in the rear.  It sounds really good! 





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"Let them that don't want none have memories of not gettin' any."
- Brother Dave Gardner

Not to change the subject too much,  I've been thinking about white face gauges for my 74.  How well do those light up and are they direct replacements?  Going to have my stock radio repaired and add an mp3 input.  I've been told it has 4rear speaker output.

Thanks,
Ray

OK, Thanks for the info and idea's. I just ordered a Kenwood am, fm, cd, and hope to install it soon. I pulled my original out and need to sell it to help cover some of my costs, so I will list it for sale. It may even work....for years I thought it didnt, but no speakers are hooked up! Thanks  Engineguy63         eric1234@charter.net

|UPDATED|5/9/2013 5:59:13 PM (AZT)|/UPDATED|

They light up well, probably better than the stock gauges.  They are not a direct replacement; you'll have to change the sending units for the temperature and oil pressure gauges (very easy), but you order a GM and year specific fuel gauge that works with the stock sender.  Stock wiring worked with no modifications.  I haven't done the tach and speedo, primarily because I don't want to lose the turn signal, brake warning, and hi beam indicators.

The gauges fit in the bezel perfectly with no cutting or modification and just clamp down.  The stock gauge assembly comes away as a unit and I kept mine in case I ever want to go back.  The cut metal piece you see in the pic is an extra gauge mounting plate I bought from eBay for $5, and cut it away to fit around the gauges.  This kept my center stack warning lights (seat belts, headlight, door ajar) working.

The third pic is of my Dad's '69.  He did black face gauges, and eliminated the warning lights by installing cut pieces of painted stainless.  His oil and vacuum gauges are mechanical, hence the full sweep dials.

Both sets shown are Auto Meter 2".  Probably about $250 for all five shown but come with everything you need.  Believe it or not, the clock was the most expensive one at about $70.








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"Let them that don't want none have memories of not gettin' any."
- Brother Dave Gardner