Stereo install 1976
Thread Starter
Drifting
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 1,809
Likes: 441
From: Denver CO
Stereo install 1976
Getting ready to finally install a high end system in my 76 and looking for tips on installation of deck.I know it going to require fabrication on 76 and earlier so anyone have pics to show yours. I need ideas.Thanks
Pro
Joined: Nov 2019
Posts: 607
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From: Dover, Delaware
Racer
Joined: Aug 2024
Posts: 276
Likes: 171
From: Pikes Peak region Colorado
2025 C3 of the Year Finalist - Modified
I used the Kenwood BT model shallow depth since I am running an older Kenwood amp and wanted plenty of room for hook ups between the unit and heater duct. The gauge bezel is fairly easy to cut rectangle hole. What I did was make a cardboard template using the unit bezel then marking cuts and a cordless jigsaw with a bi-metal blade. Fortunately I had another left over finishing bezel from a cassette deck that has the ends that turn in wards about 20-30 degrees thus finishing the look. Just had to cut the plastic bezel to fit new unit (it was actually marked on the back side).
The din mount had tabs that I bent over on what was left of the original mounting holes(about half) for the radio shafts and the upper, lower opening securing it to the gauge bezel. I will have install finished this weekend. If time permits will add photos to my very first post.
The real deal is having the left over plastic bezel with the ends turned in this kept me from cutting the gauge bezel opening from close to the edges and then making some kind custom mount plate then figuring out how to mount it.
The din mount had tabs that I bent over on what was left of the original mounting holes(about half) for the radio shafts and the upper, lower opening securing it to the gauge bezel. I will have install finished this weekend. If time permits will add photos to my very first post.
The real deal is having the left over plastic bezel with the ends turned in this kept me from cutting the gauge bezel opening from close to the edges and then making some kind custom mount plate then figuring out how to mount it.
Intermediate
Joined: Jan 2025
Posts: 29
Likes: 12
From: Southwestern US
Oh hey, I can help with this as I just literally installed that exact model of Kenwood in my 74!
Step 1 is disassembly. You will indeed need to cut for the stereo mount. My strong recommendation is to have the radio mounting bracket before you start cutting and trim very slowly and carefully with a Dremel and fine metal file & test fit every few minutes. The Kenwood unit you put there has little bending tabs that lock the mounting bracket in place against the back edge of that trim piece. It's not the most secure mount but it's functional.
Mine came with a plastic trim piece molding from the previous owner.. I have no idea where they got it but if you look for C3 radio trim you might find one that helps block the holes.
Step 2 is double and triple checking your wiring. I tapped into the main harness for ignition power and ground, and then ran to one of the grey instrument lamp panel wires for the Acc+ (usually yellow wire on the head unit harness).
Other than that, let me know what other questions you have! My setup included a 4 channel amp in the jack storage compartment and 6.5" Kenwoods in the corners of the rear. It sounds amazing once tweaked and was fairly painless.
Step 1 is disassembly. You will indeed need to cut for the stereo mount. My strong recommendation is to have the radio mounting bracket before you start cutting and trim very slowly and carefully with a Dremel and fine metal file & test fit every few minutes. The Kenwood unit you put there has little bending tabs that lock the mounting bracket in place against the back edge of that trim piece. It's not the most secure mount but it's functional.
Mine came with a plastic trim piece molding from the previous owner.. I have no idea where they got it but if you look for C3 radio trim you might find one that helps block the holes.
Step 2 is double and triple checking your wiring. I tapped into the main harness for ignition power and ground, and then ran to one of the grey instrument lamp panel wires for the Acc+ (usually yellow wire on the head unit harness).
Other than that, let me know what other questions you have! My setup included a 4 channel amp in the jack storage compartment and 6.5" Kenwoods in the corners of the rear. It sounds amazing once tweaked and was fairly painless.
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Race Director
Joined: Mar 2017
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From: Virginia
There are 1 DIN instrument cluster bezels for 68-76, as well. They just cost three times as much because they aren't plastic.
https://www.zip-corvette.com/68-76-c...ter-bezel.html
Why not hide a Bluetooth amp somewhere, and not cut up your car at all?
