Most of you I'm sure already know a double din in-dash stereo will not fit into a Dodge Ram truck without some modifications. This is how I did it.
The Dodge Ram 1500-2500-3500 should all have the same size stereo.
Some will come equipped with a premium Infinity sound system. I bypassed the factory Infinity amp, and I will be posting how I did it in the near future.
This is how the factory stereo looks.
Once the factory stereo is removed, you will have to cut the top corners to allow the plastic to move up in order to fit the new aftermarket double din. There will also be two small plastic tabs in the bottom corners, cut and remove those.
Moving on to making the double din fit. I normally use masking tape to cover and protect the face of the stereo, to avoid any scratches.
I first mocked the new stereo up from the back, and marked the pieces I need to cut out. I just used masking tape and a small marker. With this Pioneer I filed about a half inch from the bottom and the top. But different stereos fit a little different.
I typically use a mini belt sander to get close, then I use hand files to get it perfect.
In order to make the face sit flush behind the dash panel, you will have to cut and file some of the edges.
After I got the stereo to fit just right, I used a black marker and covered the top and bottom edges so when the stereo mounts in and this is put back into place you will not be able to see any unfinished edges.
For this install I made ABS plastic inserts to fill the gaps on the sides. It is a cheaper alternative to filling and refinishing the dash panel.
I got each piece to fit perfectly, then I filed and sanded them to have a slight curve. After that I painted them.
Now to the stereo mounting. I first put the stereo in the dash to get a good idea on how far in the stereo was going to have to sit in order for the dash panel to fit nicely. Once I had an idea, I mounted back-straps to the sides of the stereo and slid it in. I then started bending the back-straps trying to get them lined up with the mounting holes. At the same time fitting the dash panel into place to check for fitment. This part can be very tedious and time consuming, be patient. You will have to (mount, check fitment, re-adjust) probably about five time to get in just right.
After I had it mounted, and fitting to my satisfaction I removed the dash panel one more time.
I then glued my inserts into place, and let dry.
Once the glue cured, I mounted the dash panel and was all finished.
I think it came out really nice! I left out the part where I wired the stereo, do to the complexity of the Infinity sound system in this vehicle I will be writing a future post on how to bypass the factory amp. Hope this helps - Jeremy's Car Audio Tips
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