Cutting the factory radio opening - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

Resmondo · 08-17-2009, 09:34 AM

whats the best way to do this and make it look good with out any gaps on any side

Sinister · 08-17-2009, 09:41 AM

I used a Dremel with a cut off wheel to cut the dash. Measure the box/frame thing that comes with the new stereo. Use some masking tape to mark where you're gonna cut. Be conservative with your cut, you can always grind the opening a little bit more to get it to fit.

69GMCLonghorn · 08-17-2009, 09:47 AM

I'd say you're on the right track!

I used to think that you were an idiot for cutting an original dash, but I've changed my mind... Big deal, so you put a nice stereo in it. I'd rather have a cut dash than a Custom Auto Sound unit with knobs that don't stay on and controls that wear out, etc... Now I say GO FOR IT! Enjoy it!

Good luck! Send a pic of how the finished product looks.

Resmondo · 08-17-2009, 09:50 AM

ok thanks i was thinking about molding something into the entire area to maked it flush with the rest of the dash what would be the best for this that can be matched with paint

69GMCLonghorn · 08-17-2009, 10:37 AM

I am definitely not a fabricator (except when it comes to good drinkin' stories!), but I would think that spot welding in a panel wouldn't be too difficult for someone who knows what they're doing... Then just take ye olde grinder and smooth it out and paint it.

Ackattack · 08-17-2009, 10:49 AM

I'd use a body saw

08-17-2009, 09:34 AM	#1
Resmondo Registered User Join Date: Aug 2009 Location: Pensacola, Florida Posts: 14	Cutting the factory radio opening whats the best way to do this and make it look good with out any gaps on any side

08-17-2009, 09:41 AM	#2
Sinister Between Trucks... Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Los Angeles, CA. Posts: 3,830	Re: Cutting the factory radio opening I used a Dremel with a cut off wheel to cut the dash. Measure the box/frame thing that comes with the new stereo. Use some masking tape to mark where you're gonna cut. Be conservative with your cut, you can always grind the opening a little bit more to get it to fit. __________________ Beat it to fit, Paint it to match... Last edited by Sinister; 08-17-2009 at 09:43 AM.

08-17-2009, 09:47 AM	#3
69GMCLonghorn Registered User Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Porter Ranch, CA Posts: 978	Re: Cutting the factory radio opening I'd say you're on the right track! I used to think that you were an idiot for cutting an original dash, but I've changed my mind... Big deal, so you put a nice stereo in it. I'd rather have a cut dash than a Custom Auto Sound unit with knobs that don't stay on and controls that wear out, etc... Now I say GO FOR IT! Enjoy it! Good luck! Send a pic of how the finished product looks.

08-17-2009, 09:50 AM	#4
Resmondo Registered User Join Date: Aug 2009 Location: Pensacola, Florida Posts: 14	Re: Cutting the factory radio opening ok thanks i was thinking about molding something into the entire area to maked it flush with the rest of the dash what would be the best for this that can be matched with paint

08-17-2009, 10:37 AM	#5
69GMCLonghorn Registered User Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Porter Ranch, CA Posts: 978	Re: Cutting the factory radio opening I am definitely not a fabricator (except when it comes to good drinkin' stories!), but I would think that spot welding in a panel wouldn't be too difficult for someone who knows what they're doing... Then just take ye olde grinder and smooth it out and paint it.

08-17-2009, 10:49 AM	#6
Ackattack Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2002 Location: Valley Center KS Posts: 3,524	Re: Cutting the factory radio opening I'd use a body saw __________________ Project Bruiser: 68 Pro-Touring C-10 5.3L / 4L60E Project Ironhide: 97 GMC Crew Cab 4x4 Cummins SOLD: '69 GMC 1/2T SWB TBI'd: Project No Buck Assembly Manual Index Sign up Thread!!! Factory Service Manual Index



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