need options for install in Explorer

[kb8srx]

hey guys, I know I have read many, many post on installs in explorers, but here is my problem, I have a 1991 explorer stick shift, and I was wandering if you guys have ideas on consoles, I am at a lost for ideas for the radios, doesnt seem like a lot of room to work with, and I am tired of installing radios on the dash.

[kb8srx]

Any Ideas??

[KG6EAQ]

You still have options even with the stick. Best thing to do would be to get a pickup style console and put it where the current factory console is. When I had an explorer I ripped out the factory and put one in there. You could use a regular seat bolt mounting plate if you modified it a bit.

[kb8srx]

I am thinking of that, and just mounting my BC-780XLT under the ashtray since it dont require a lot of fan room, just exploring ALL of the options.

[mikeh]

I don't know if this will work for you, but I needed a very simple install in my explorer (also a 91) I removed the ashtray, there is enough room there to mount a maxtrac with a cheep universal car-stereo install face kit, it snugs it up and takes up the rest of the space, the result is it integrates right into the factory console, and looks pretty much stock. If you need more than one radio, a pickup-style console is still a possibility, but it might get in the way, a van-style might work better.

My strobes are controled by two rear-defrost switches, which I got from a junkyard and installed on the left side of the dash, one controls rear, and one controls front, I just scraped off the labeling on it,with an exacto, and did the cut outs with a dremel.

[kb8srx]

Now theres an "original" idea that I would have never thought of,thats a pretty nifty idea, I wonder if my ft-100 would fit in there?? since I dont use the smoke, theres no need for a ashtray, humm if anything I might could mount the remote head there, anyway still gonna need a console of some sort, still have two A-9 controls and a vector control thats gott go somewhere.

[kb8srx]

do you have any pics of the install?

[mikeh]

No pics...yet, not a problem to do some though, I just got a new digi cam for christmas, I will take it out to the truck later, and snap some pics. Generally ashtrays, cupholders, and OEM stereos are good canidates for removal, I have done this in a few other vehicles too.

[mikeh]

Here is a pic with the radio pulled out, so you can see what kind of space you have. Based on looking at it, I am pretty sure a ft100 would fit just fine in that space.