Hello ... I would like to install an after market sound system in my 72 Cutlass Supreme convertible. I want to keep the org stereo radio in dash though. I have heard of folks installing into ash tray compartment or glove box... How difficult is this ? Is there much mod needed? Also would like advise on speaker install and placement. Thanks in advance

 

Keep in mind that no matter what you do, if you install an aftermarket stereo your vehicle has been modified! I spent 15 years explaining that to car enthusiasts. No matter what you do to change out a speaker or radio, if you replace it with something other than a factory replacement it is modified. At that point the choice is how far you are willing to go.

It can be done so there are no visible changes and there are a couple different options for installing an aftermarket stereo. There are aftermarket stereos that "look" like a factory radio down to using the factory ***** and don't require cutting the dash. Some should be able to control a remote (under seat or in trunk) CD player and have MP3 player input. This is the most convenient way to do it. Dual speakers can be installed in place of the dash speaker and box speakers can be added in the kick panels and in the rear

There are (or were) plastic and metal enclosures that can be mounted inside the glovebox. They should be available for either shafted or DIN units. Some of them are either/or. Mounting in the glovebox makes the stereo virtually unreachable to the driver though. You would need one with a remote control.

A good stereo shop should be able to go over all options available to you locally. Your personal abilities will dictate how much of it you can do yourself and how much will need to be farmed out.

 

On this model there was a option for a 8 track to be placed under dashboard. I have seen people use it's case and install a radio in it looks very clean down fall is I think its expensive, maybe some one who has done it will chime in

 

I forgot about those! There weren't many of those that I had to deal with. Below are pictures of a factory 8-track mount and an aftermarket under dash radio mount. Using the under dash mount simplifies the whole process and allows the use of any newer head unit desired. It also puts it within reach of the driver.

8-trackhousing_zps1ecab38b.jpg
radiomount_zpsf5166371.jpg

 

Have Randy (70w442?) make you one of these. Sorry Randy, I keep forgetting your tag. I have a pic of mine installed but I can't find it right now. I'll post it later. He does fantastic job making these and they fit like factory ones.

Ha! I found the post!
https://classicoldsmobile.com/forums...-housings.html

 

If you install and 8 ohm output stereo unit you can set up your stock stereo to use the new speakers. There a number of ways to do this. Newer stereo's can be installed under the seat or dash, in the glove box, or trunk.

 

A good amplifier located under the front passenger seat and some good 5 1/4 or 6 1/2 speakers in the kick panel location will serve the driver and front passenger well. This combo with the head unit locations already presented will provide a good basic system that should be able to be heard in the convertible while moving. As to difficulty, I'd say someone with basic skill can read instructions provided with new equipment and be successful. If you want a powerful system with big subs, separate speaker components and the like that you seek out a specialty shop for recommendations and the installation. - Steven

 

This is the one I was thinking of