Looking at the AM/FM radio in my 71. I see there was an option for stereo? I can switch over obviously to AM and FM, but what exactly is the stereo option- just for speakers or something?
Vette(s): 1969 convertible L71 427/435 4-speed black interior
Joined: 9/8/2003 Posts: 3398
It's a different radio altogether, though nearly identical in appearance. The stereo has two channels as well as a light on the dial which illuminates when the radio is locked onto a stereo signal. A standard AM/FM radio with two speakers isn't stereo...just the same thing coming out of each speaker, not something different as in stereo.
The radios fit the same in the dash. Any installation difference is in the second speaker. A factory installed AM/FM stereo would add some value to the car as it was an extra cost upgrade. How much extra value is debatable dependent on the rest of the car...condition, other equipment, etc.
Vette(s): SOLD - "The Toy" - '70 Convertible SOLD - "The Beast" - '90 ZR-1 (#682) SOLD - "Betty" - '28 Ford Model A Tudor Still have - "BLKBRRD" - '78 Pontiac Trans Am
Joined: 1/23/2002 Posts: 7189
On the AM/FM Stereo radio I think there is also an additional converter box (can't remember the exact name) that is tucked up under the dash. When I bought "The Toy" it had an aftermarket POS system that HAD to go (fortunately the bezel wasn't cut). I bought a correct AM/FM Stereo unit on eBay but had a heck of a time locating the extra converter box (finally found one at a local Corvette boneyard). There is a thread here somewhere that shows all the pieces.
I was just curious. All my Corvette books don't really go into too much detail (picture wise too.) I think I saw that skematic with the 2nd stereo piece tucked under the dash. But it never showed the actual radio face, so i didn't know the difference just looking at it.
My car has alot of options- I'm just trying to figure out even the little things such as the radio.
On a side note, I found and conversed (after a little research) with the 2nd owner last night. That was cool hearing stories directly from a past owner. I'm the 4th owner. I've known the 3rd owner for 25 years- he bought it when I was in junior high. I waited a long time for this car!Hopefully this guy i just talked to has the orginal owner's name so I can search again.
Is there a thread or spot here where you can ask for information and/or past owners? You never know if a previous owner could be near you- or even a member.
Vette(s): #1-1974 L-48 4spd Cp Med Red Metallic/Black deluxe int w/AC/tilt/tele./p/w-p/b/
Am-Fm/map light National/Regional/Chapter NCRS "Top Flight"
#2-1985 Bright Red/Carmine Cp.L-98/auto
Member: NCRS, NCRS Texas, Corvette Legends of Texas
Joined: 11/8/2003 Posts: 20126
I think on the factory stereo radios, the "left/right" knob, or the right hand side knob, moves. On the monorail radios, the knob doesn't move. It's the chrome knob behind the black tune knob. Also, if you look closely at a stereo radio, you can make out the small "stereo" light in the face, even if it is not hooked up. Of course, if it's connected, the light will at least flicker as you tune in on a station, even a weak one.Adams' Apple2009-04-02 10:34:57