After market auto AM/FM stereo

[Delta]

My 1981 GMC K model pickup came with a non-functioning stereo/cassette player. I want to put in a good new AM/FM radio. I don't want either a cassette player or CD changer. I just want a radio.

There is a 4-3/4" by 1-3/4" rectangular hole in the dash with two round holes on either side--for the knobs. These holes are 5-3/4" center to center. The nuts on the knob shaft sleves are what held the old radio in.

I went down to the auto stereo store with cash in hand and discovered two things: 1) clerks don't know anything, and 2) the world has changed and new tuners have way too many bells and whistles and the require a different kind of opening--sized in DIN--whatever that means. But none of them had two knobs on either side to fit through those holes.

I really don't want to cut the dash. I'd also have to cut the instrument bezel, and I really don't want to do that.

Anyone know a source for new "old style" in dash tuners?

 

[Kimber]

Delta,

Check out Crutchfield's site. They have a nice "what fits my car" program that gives the proper radio sizing information based on the type of car you have.

http://www.crutchfield.com/S-H3nYl0J4P9n/cgi-bin/autoinfo/autoinfo.asp?s=0&cc=01&vehicleid=0

In the 1981 GMC category, however, they didn't have a K model pickup. However, perhaps one of the listed models (or a Chevy model) uses the same size as your K-type did. In any event, I've found Crutchfield's to be one of the best aftermarket companies in terms of knowledgability. You can probably call them and ask what size radio you need. Their prices, service, and aftermarket install kits are also quite good.

They may not have an "old style" tuner that fits, but if they don't, they may be able to give you more sizing information and offer suggestions.

David

 

[Delta]

Thanks for the link. The Chevy C model is equivalant to the GMC K (or is it that one is 4WD and one 2WD??). However, I'm not sure I believe that the units they direct me too would fit my dash without significant modification. I'll give them a call. Also, tomorrow I'm going to visit a auto-audio repair guy I know and get some infor/advice from him.

 

[twohawlks]

If you jusy want an AM/FM radio most GM radios are interchangeable .I have a
radio out of a 84 caddy in my 78 chev PU. It was a direct fit I don't think that I
cut the bezzel at all. The wires plug in using the orignal connector.

 

[Hamilton Felix]

Whether it's Chevy (for Louis Chevrolet) or GMC (Grabowski Motor Company, for Max Grabowski), you'll find C is two wheel drive and K is four wheel drive. The cab will be the same.

Good advice here. Crutchfield can help. And since radios tend to be standardized for GM for a particular era, you may be able to get a junkyard radio cheap.

 

[Delta]

Thanks for the advice and info.

I ended up ordering an AM-FM radio from Golden State Parts; they carry parts for older GM and Ford trucks--up to 1987. They're an internet outfit, but they actually live in real time and space right down the road from me--and I'd like to keep them in business. They've helped me with my dash and other parts--and ain't through using them yet. There really wasn't much to choose from on this radio project since I didn't want to cut the dash. The junk yard was a good idea--and I visit there often enough. I just wanted a new box.