C3 Corvette: custom stereo options??
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 366
Likes: 9
From: Austin TX
C3 Corvette: custom stereo options??
I currently have an Alpine AM/FM/Cassette deck in my 1978 Corvette Pace. I have the original factory 8-track player and I'd like to have it reinstalled.
I assume that it will probably be fairly difficult to make it functional... The previous owner put in this Alpine tape unit, an Alpine amp, and new speakers. I assume (but don't know) they probably redid all of the factory wiring to make these modifications?
One suggestion I was given is that I put in the original 8-track as a non-functional unit for "look", and then "hide" an aftermarket CD player. The glove box in my 1978 it appears that it is too shallow for an aftermarket CD player.
I am wondering:
- What sort of fancy things have other C3 owners done?
- Any recommendations on customization shops in Minnesota?
I assume that it will probably be fairly difficult to make it functional... The previous owner put in this Alpine tape unit, an Alpine amp, and new speakers. I assume (but don't know) they probably redid all of the factory wiring to make these modifications?
One suggestion I was given is that I put in the original 8-track as a non-functional unit for "look", and then "hide" an aftermarket CD player. The glove box in my 1978 it appears that it is too shallow for an aftermarket CD player.
I am wondering:
- What sort of fancy things have other C3 owners done?
- Any recommendations on customization shops in Minnesota?
Le Mans Master
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 6,493
Likes: 6
From: Bloomington MN
Cruise-In II Veteran
Re: C3 Corvette: custom stereo options?? (freemyer)
My opinion is that you should put a modern CD player in the dash, and add any other components you would like that will fit. You are lucky in that your center guage bezel is plastic and flat...easy to trim. The bezels are cheap to replace should you decide you want to go back to stock. The aftermarket stereos that fit are expensive and are only cassette at best. I had a Custom Autosound unit in my 69 and it really was not a nice stereo. I did some searches for a factory wiring harness adapter for my 69 so I wouldn't have to cut the original harness to install a stereo. I didn't find any for a 69, but if I remember right, Scosche sells an adapter harness for 78-82 Vettes.
AC
AC
Race Director
Joined: Apr 2000
Posts: 11,840
Likes: 0
From: Galloway NJ
Re: C3 Corvette: custom stereo options?? (A C)
My opinion is that you should put a modern CD player in the dash, and add any other components you would like that will fit. You are lucky in that your center guage bezel is plastic and flat...easy to trim. The bezels are cheap to replace should you decide you want to go back to stock. The aftermarket stereos that fit are expensive and are only cassette at best. I had a Custom Autosound unit in my 69 and it really was not a nice stereo. I did some searches for a factory wiring harness adapter for my 69 so I wouldn't have to cut the original harness to install a stereo. I didn't find any for a 69, but if I remember right, Scosche sells an adapter harness for 78-82 Vettes.
AC
AC
Le Mans Master
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 7,154
Likes: 1
From: I blame my Dyslexia MD
Re: C3 Corvette: custom stereo options?? (freemyer)
you can mount some low profile stuff under the seats, like amps, this gives you more room for coolness
in the 68-77 vettes you can put stuff behind the carpet in the back, that would be on either side roght behind the wheel well on the inside, this igves more mounting space for anyone reading with one of those years, i even have a pair of 8" subs back there and room for an amp each, and this wouldnt take up more than half of thatroom, and its behind the carpet sop the bass just goes through it but you can tsee thewm at all.
MAtt
in the 68-77 vettes you can put stuff behind the carpet in the back, that would be on either side roght behind the wheel well on the inside, this igves more mounting space for anyone reading with one of those years, i even have a pair of 8" subs back there and room for an amp each, and this wouldnt take up more than half of thatroom, and its behind the carpet sop the bass just goes through it but you can tsee thewm at all.
MAtt
