Jeep Garage  - Jeep Forum banner

Need Help on Replacement Radios

5K views 9 replies 5 participants last post by  JustDontBlink 
#1 · (Edited)
Hey guys, I'm having a bit of an issue with my radio. My tape deck has stopped working in my 2001 WJ, which means I can no longer listen to my iPod while driving with the tape adapter. Of course being an '01 there is no AUX port so now I'm thinking about getting a new radio. Originally I was just going to go to a junk yard and get a used one for cheap but I'm seeing a few options for under $100.00 so I'm wonder which would be a good one to get.

I found this on ebay which really seems to resemble the stock radio with and added adapter that acts as an AUX port and iPod charging station (not including the new iPhone 5 and above devices). The plus side to this is that it looks like it will fit perfectly in place of my stock radio. The draw back is it really just looks like a regular stock radio with an added adapter that someone just added on so I'm worried about how durable it will be.

I have also found a list of kenwood radios and one in particular seemed to catch my interest. It has everything that I'd want in a radio, basic AM, FM (I don't really need Sirius or XM), CD player, AUX port and USB port. My only real concern is the fit. It looks like this radio will leave an empty space in the dash and also the edges aren't as rounded as the stock radio so I'm concerned on how it would sit in the center counsel.

If you guys could give me some input on these radios it would be appreciated, or if you know any other models that are a good price (up to $150.00 range) I'd definitely consider it. Thanks for the help.
 
See less See more
#2 ·
With any single din radio you use an adapter plate that fits the dash opening. Check the page again above the pic. For an extra $15 they give you everything you need for an easy install.You can't beat that price anywhere.
 
#3 · (Edited)
Only other thing to think about would be if you wanted to add features to the radio (Bluetooth streaming a hands-free calling, Variable Color Display, ect.) it would bring up the price somewhat. I used Crutchfield to check out stuff for my build and asked my installer for their opinion and for pricing. I have the KDC-797, my installer gave it to me for $160. I see on Crutchfield you can also buy it factory refurbished for $150.

Not sure if you plan on upgrading your system at all but my installer also told me the 797 would get more sound quality out of a system. He didn't really have to try to upsell me, so I don't think it was BS.

Edit-
I love the Variable Color display, matches the interior lighting pretty well, especially my cluster lights. There's a lot of color options if you don't care about matching.
 
#4 ·
Thanks, I actually just had my radio sent to me last week. Ended up going with the Kenwood KMR-355U, actually got it off of amazon for ~$90. I have the wire harness hooked up now all I need to do is to actully put it in my WJ. I'm having two small issues thousg. One is unhooking the stock radio. There is a little black piece with a white wire that I can't get unhooked for the life of me. Its at 10:10 in this video. I'm pressing the top lever but it still isn't coming loose and I don't wont to break the thing. Secondly is the ground wire, I just need a good area to mount it to the chassis. I was wondering what you guys used. Is there a good spot located in the center console to mount one? Thanks for the help again.
 
#5 ·
Hmm, unfortunately I had mine professionally installed for $35 so I can't help you there. It was a Birthday present along with the front speakers. Hopefully someone can chime in and you can get it installed:thumbsup: .
 
#7 ·
WOW, that looks very very sweet... I'm putting my new stereo in today, will post back later when I've finished :)
 
This is an older thread, you may not receive a response, and could be reviving an old thread. Please consider creating a new thread.
Top