OE radio help please.

[challenger]

I removed the radio from my 1970 Chrysler 300 convertible about 5 years ago. I replaced it with a modern unit that accepted digital inputs etc. I have the cluster out (still) and the wife want the OE radio put back in. I can't find it but I'm sure I will right after I solve the whole dilemma and put everything back together. As the is progresses I'd like to ask a few questions if I may:
Does the cluster have to come out to R & R the radio? The FSM is VERY poor IMO and omits MANY details. The R & Ron the radio is one of several.
Is the hole in the bezel for the radio just a rectangular opening? That's what the current bezel has and I can't recall if I had to modify the bezel when installing the new unit.
Is there any point in trying to get decent sound from the stock audio in a convertible?
Is eBay the best source for a replacement OE radio?
Should I set this car on fire?
Thanks for the help folks.

 

[Big_John]

I removed the radio from my 1970 Chrysler 300 convertible about 5 years ago. I replaced it with a modern unit that accepted digital inputs etc. I have the cluster out (still) and the wife want the OE radio put back in. I can't find it but I'm sure I will right after I solve the whole dilemma and put everything back together. As the is progresses I'd like to ask a few questions if I may:
Does the cluster have to come out to R & R the radio? The FSM is VERY poor IMO and omits MANY details. The R & Ron the radio is one of several.

The radio can come out from under the dash without removing the cluster. The lower A/C duct has to come out along with the ash tray. Once the ash tray is out, you can see the radio.

Is the hole in the bezel for the radio just a rectangular opening? That's what the current bezel has and I can't recall if I had to modify the bezel when installing the new unit.

Depends on the radio. This is what mine looks like. My radio is a signal seeking AM/FM.

Is there any point in trying to get decent sound from the stock audio in a convertible?

Yes and no... You'll never get the best audio, but you can still get better than stock. It just takes a little thought.

First, update the radio.... This guy comes recommended for a conversion on your old radio. Stock looks with modern internals. http://garytayman.com/stereo.htm

Is eBay the best source for a replacement OE radio?

No, see above.

Should I set this car on fire?

No... It will all come together.

 

[73Coupe]

Stereo Conversion Kits for Classic Cars

Link to the Aurora products that Tayman uses. The FMR-2 board is listed here at $325, and Tayman lists it installed for $400. Dang.

I was hoping to do one of these myself.

 

[Big_John]

Stereo Conversion Kits for Classic Cars

Link to the Aurora products that Tayman uses. The FMR-2 board is listed here at $325, and Tayman lists it installed for $400. Dang.

I was hoping to do one of these myself.

Not worth saving the $75....

 

[challenger]

Heck - I don't even need the radio to work! If it fills the hole my wife will be happy which, by default, make me happy
We will use one of those bluetooth speakers when driving anyway.
Thanks

 

[Samplingman]

Heck - I don't even need the radio to work! If it fills the hole my wife will be happy which, by default, make me happy
We will use one of those bluetooth speakers when driving anyway.
Thanks

With that thinking you are 90% there - happy wife, happy life!

 

[73Coupe]

Not worth saving the $75....

Exactly. I'll bet the "dealers" get these for 'bout a buck a pop.