Hello, I am like many people and looking for a way to retain my original radio system, specifically the way it looks. I have already looked into a lot of different things such as hideaway systems etc.
I want the OEM radio to control the sound system so after doing some basic math I have found one way that stands out to me, and would like feedback over feasibility and difficulty
Purchase a preexisting radio and put the components inside of my current OEM unit, then make the OEM buttons control the new radio/stereo.
The interface/faceplate on many new single din radios are detachable, which would allow me to solder either through that specific port or to the individual locations on the board.
The front of the radio I want to keep is from a 1996 F150 (16 buttons and a small display).
Would it be easier to use individual buttons, attempt to make a PCB or solder board, try to break down the current board and use it for the buttons? Also, is there something else that I am completely overlooking? Something easier?
I have a basic electrical background and understand a lot of the basic context that would be used here. Obviously a lot of it will be a learning opportunity as well, which I am excited for. So any help/guidance is appreciated.
I want the OEM radio to control the sound system so after doing some basic math I have found one way that stands out to me, and would like feedback over feasibility and difficulty
Purchase a preexisting radio and put the components inside of my current OEM unit, then make the OEM buttons control the new radio/stereo.
The interface/faceplate on many new single din radios are detachable, which would allow me to solder either through that specific port or to the individual locations on the board.
The front of the radio I want to keep is from a 1996 F150 (16 buttons and a small display).
Would it be easier to use individual buttons, attempt to make a PCB or solder board, try to break down the current board and use it for the buttons? Also, is there something else that I am completely overlooking? Something easier?
I have a basic electrical background and understand a lot of the basic context that would be used here. Obviously a lot of it will be a learning opportunity as well, which I am excited for. So any help/guidance is appreciated.
I am familiar with the Telnack era simple interfaces, Ford did keep it nice and clean.
I might start with adapting the volume control to a different (cheap Bluetooth preamp/USB drive reader) device, and see how that goes. Probably a good idea to find a spare oem head unit to mess around with also. You may be surprised that some of the buttons are normally closed vs open, that would require more surgery.
I might start with adapting the volume control to a different (cheap Bluetooth preamp/USB drive reader) device, and see how that goes. Probably a good idea to find a spare oem head unit to mess around with also. You may be surprised that some of the buttons are normally closed vs open, that would require more surgery.