Replacing standard AM/FM Cassette - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

T100 Owner · 08-07-2005, 03:26 PM

Just a quick stupid question for all of you who have upgraded your tunes. Currently, I have the standard AM/FM Cassette player that came with the truck but want more. I plan to upgrade to a CD player. Question, in checking compatibility sizes on the net, all I can find is it says a "double din" type is needed. Yet, when looking at these monsters, they look too big for the space. Is this wrong and will a "standard size" unit replace what I have work? I have a "96 T100.

Thanks for any help before I take the plunge.

Tim

***cam2Xrunner*** · 08-07-2005, 04:24 PM

You can use a single DIN unit, you'll have fill the open space with a DIN Pocket. TOyota makes one that has a door that opens. I think it was like 20 bucks at the dealer. You might have to order it for a 93 Camry DX or something that came with just the tape player. In fact you might already have the pocket.

So in short you can use Single Din or Double Din, it's up to you. If you are looking for just a CD player, then I'd look into a single Din unit.

What's your budget?

touringcamry · 08-07-2005, 04:31 PM

No question is stupid except the one not asked.

Does your radio have a pocket or bin above or below it or is it a double-din sized unit.

Most Toyotas have a double-din opening, but some have a single-din radio with a pocket taking up the rest of the space. You can replace the unit with any radio single or double-din. It is not necessary to install a double-din, you can just use the pocket and a single-din unit.

If you are looking for an inexpensive upgrade, you can get a used Toyota unit. These are readily available on eBay and are plug and play.

T100 Owner · 08-07-2005, 05:59 PM

Thanks for the feedback. My truck has a pocket underneath the unit. I would like to keep it so I will probably just go with the single. As far as my budget, with a wife and three school-age kids, it will be a cheapie. I just want to arrive in the 21st century and get a unit to play CD's along with keeping the radio. I currently just have the AM/FM Cassette. Being an "old man" of 45 yrs., it doesn't have to be anything outrageous.

Thanks again for your help.

***cam2Xrunner*** · 08-07-2005, 06:12 PM

I'd look for the best Pioneer unit you can get for your money. Search ebay and Froogle. Or your local dealer, Circuit City etc.

touringcamry · 08-08-2005, 06:19 AM

What is your budget for the CD player?

Regular Pioneer CD players start at $90, and ones with MP3 playback capability start around $130 on http://www.cardomain.com .

You may want to buy a wiring harness also, but this part is optional. It will allow you to plug in the new unit directly into the truck without having the cut any wires. Depending on where you buy from, it may be included as a "bonus" or you can buy one for about $10.r

***REN69*** · 08-08-2005, 06:47 AM

You would keep your pocket if you go for a single DIN CD player.. most of the players are single DIN anyways. Toyota usually used the pocket area when people ordered an EQ or an OEM CD player/Cassette premium system, the pocket is there because you or whoever ordered the truck, only ordered a tape player.

T100 Owner · 08-10-2005, 05:46 PM

Thanks Guys for the help. I guess the first thing I wasn't sure of was what "din" meant. That solved, I bought a JVC AM/FM CD player and installed it yesterday. Works great. The first CD I got for it is "ACDC Live". Kicks butt with factory speakers and looks great!!

Thanks again.