im looking to replace the cardboard glove box with an aftermarket plastic full size glove box. I want to place an aftermarket radio in it but it won't fit w the passenger vent duct and its glove box option. Can I just remove the vent without any issues, engine fumes etc...does it need to be sealed somewhere after removal? Other option is an under dash kit but wanted the dash to try and remain stock
I am trying to remember doesn't the air duct pass though the engine compartment over the top of the fenderwell? if it does just make sure that it is sealed off well.
57-58 Fresh air comes in through the Cowel grill. The aria between the hood and windshield. Has nothing to do with motor compartment. Without sealing it up you will have an open compartment to the outside and a wind tunnel at highway speed. The Wizzard
do you already have the aftermarket radio? If not, what music formet are you planning on listening to while you drive? CD's or through a MP3/phone? If you dont plan on using CD's...new bluetooth radios (no built in CD player) are half the depth of the standard old aftermarket radios. If you are just going to listen through your phone or MP3 player, then you dont even need a head unit at all. Here is an example of a bluetooth head unit that doesnt have a CD player...literally half the size in depth
Thanks guys. So if I remove it, I'll need to seal it. Probably best to keep it there and add an under dash kit?
So here is some Food for Thought. I just did this on my 51 Ford Convert project (not my first time). Screw aftermarket plastic shit, build it yourself. It's apx. 3" deep and plenty room for a map and flashlight. Then I mounted a fiber optic cable so the remote can transfer the sig, back to the new unit and the stock radio on off switch turns on the new units power. I'll glue some black felt in it before it's done. The Wizzard
Manufacturer: Pioneer Item model number: MVH-X370BT Product Dimensions: 9 x 9 x 4 inches Ynottayblock, I actually did buy a non CD head unit but I believe it's the same size as a a unit that had a CD player
I think there's plenty of room to do what I did and leave the vent in place. It's just a piece of Tin and a little time. Screw hanging Shit under the dash. The Wizzard
The passenger side duct also supplies fresh air to the factory heater/defroster, so blocking/removing it will effect operation.
!! The benefits of the vent seem to out weigh the radio in the glove box. Unless I can wizzard it somehow. Now another question; what is the difference in a non AC glove box and an AC glove box? I'll need to get a replacement regardless of the radio because my original has a big hole in it.
Makes perfect sense. I'm hoping I can rig the radio in a new glove liner somehow while keeping the passenger vent intact
Well I believe Crazy Steve is confused with the pre 57 Ford heaters. The fresh air vent is a stand alone unit and has nothing to do with defrost or heat. None of my 57-58 or 59 Fords have factory air so I can't answer anything related to that. Measuring the space for a simular product like the photos I posted there would be more than enough room for me to install the same unit in my 51 into the same space in my 57 Glove Box. The numbers you posted say your trying to work with a Radio almost as large as a stock 57 Ford one. My advice would be to try a smaller unit. The Wizzard
if stereo that you mentioned using is new and can be returned, or just one laying around take a look at stereo that will fit your stock radio location - nice stuff, reasonable prices: www.casmfg.com
Good point J-J. On my 57 Convert project 20 years ago I found a nice Casset player (that's pre C.D.) that bolted right in the stock hole and actually used the 57 knobs, even has push buttons. It was priced very fair at the time. Probably not much different in today's market. The Wizzard
Pist-n-Broke, I too have a '58 ford ranch wagon. Where could the radio that is in the picture be purchased from?
Hey there jalopy joker, I actually had one of those in my 59 Ranchwagon awhile back. Honestly, didn't really like it much. Felt cheap and kept disconnecting from my apple devices.
I'll see if I still have the reciept in the file. If not I'll look for name brand info on the unit. The Wizzard
Dual-shaft 'universal' units as known in the past are nearly non-existent these days... pretty much everything is DIN-chassis size. Cassettes and CD is on it's way out too; almost all you can find these days is 'Bluetooth/USB'-based head units. You pretty much have to go to a 'specialty' car audio maker; Custom Auto Sound and Retrosound are the two bigger players, but Antique Auto Radio makes some nice-looking reproduction units (including one for your '58), look here http://www.classiccarstereos.com/category/Antique-Automobile-Radio.html .... not cheap. Custom Auto Sound is generally the least-expensive choice, but check their reviews before buying; more than a few unhappy customers out there. Retrosound probably offers the most options; while their 'custom-fit' selection is somewhat limited, they offer units that are modular and can be separated into the knobs/shafts, faceplate, and main head unit, with cables connecting the parts. Mount the knobs one place, the face another, the head unit somewhere else.
Crazy Steve very nice radios at antique auto but wow the prices! Leadfooted what a great looking wagon! Hoping to get mine near that level!