CD Player Installation

[cabrzama]

How hard is it to install a CD player (in-dash unit)? Do you know where I can get the step-by-step? Before I buy one on e-bay, is there a certain size or type I need to get for the Windstar?

[DRW1000]

I don't know what the 96 stereo looks like if it is aboaut 3 -4 " high then chances are it is like my 99. This uses a "double din" size (height). Most aftermarkets are "din". Adpaters are available for under $20 that allow one to install a single din in a double din cavity. I fabricated one out of acrylic and it looks great.

[denisb]

Originally Posted by DRW1000

I don't know what the 96 stereo looks like if it is aboaut 3 -4 " high then chances are it is like my 99. This uses a "double din" size (height). Most aftermarkets are "din". Adpaters are available for under $20 that allow one to install a single din in a double din cavity. I fabricated one out of acrylic and it looks great.

I agree. Also you can get a universal connector that will fit in your Ford connector to give you something to connect to without chopping up your vehicle harness to hook everything up. They sell them at Walmart for about $10.

Denis

[Dakota00]

The 96 has a single din size unit. No din adapter is needed. I do recommend buying a wire harness to hook-up the factory wires to the aftermarket deck. Makes life a lot easier.

Also to remove the old factory unit. You will notice 4 small holes, 2 on one side and 2 on the other side on the face of the deck. You need a special tool to remove the deck. But an easy and cheap way of doing this, is cutting a metal coat hanger up and bend 2 "U" shape patterns. Then stick the "U" shape tool in the top and bottom hole on both sides. Push in good, so the clips release the deck and then pull the factory unit out.

Anthony

[cabrzama]

Thanks for your help! I take it that the DIN sizing is unique to Fords??? I believe my '96 Ford has a single DIN because it is flat compared to most combo cassette/radio players I am shopping around for. So the trick is to find one with a single din. I think this one I found on ebay would work--what do you think?

Item number: 8004395128
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/FORD-...QQcmdZViewItem

[denisb]

You got er! Ford has two different stereo faceplates (if you don't consider the round Taurus one He He). One thick and one Thin. The one you found on e-bay is the thin one (single din).

Denis

[DRW1000]

"Din" sizing is not Ford only. Almost all after markets are single "din". Some Fords have "double din" and some cars havd "1 1/2 din". Then there are the oddball shapes.