Dimensions (depth) for stereo DIN

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Hootch
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Your car is a: 1978 Fiat 124 Spider 1800
Location: Boise, Idaho

Dimensions (depth) for stereo DIN

Post by Hootch »

Hi all, PO installed a CD player that is too long for the center console DIN slot, so it sits crooked. This appears to be a common problem. Since I don't actually listen to music while in the 124, I'm thinking about yanking the CD player and installing one of these:

https://www.amazon.com/lsqSTAR-Universa ... B00PTLJ39O

or perhaps:

https://www.amazon.com/Universal-Single ... V3KR0SZMWM

Before I make the hefty $14 investment, it would be good to know how much room I have to work with. If anyone has dimensions (depth), please share. :-) There are plenty of threads regarding stereo installation, but I didn't see anything that included dimensions.

Admittedly, both of these options a little bit cheesy, but hitting starbucks on the way to the curvies would be kind of nice now and then. If you're privy to better uses for that radio DIN slot, let's hear 'em!

Thanks,

Tim
Hootch McGee
1978 124 Spider (1592 cc motor)
2012 Mini Cooper Clubman S
2004 Aprilia Mojito
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TX82FIAT
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Your car is a: 82 Fiat Spider 2000 CSO
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Re: Dimensions (depth) for stereo DIN

Post by TX82FIAT »

Hootch, It's been a while but take two inches off the standard DIN case and you will be fine. A lot of folks have moved to a mechless (NO CD stereo) to avoid the space issues. I really don't like the "empty box" option. Seems tacky. If you don't use a stereo the cup holder is as good a use as any. I've seen some nice cup holder options built that sit on top of the e-brake center console. If you could get a small felt lined black box that was push open that would be cool. Good place to put sunglasses and other stuff.
Buon giro a tutti! - enjoy the ride!

82 Fiat Spider 2000
03 BMW M3
07 Chevy Suburban
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dinghyguy
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Re: Dimensions (depth) for stereo DIN

Post by dinghyguy »

Hi,
I have a single din cassette stereo in mine and i know that a single din popout cup holder form an older Toyota or Nissan will fit. In fact i was thinking of moving the radio up to where the flasher switch and dimmer switches are in the centre section and do exactly what you are suggesting for the radio slot. I think the upper location would need the mechless unit, though but the popout cupholders are great.

so i don't have the dimension on hand but i know a single DIN could be fit in.

cheers
dinghyguy
1981 Red Spider "Redbob"
1972 blue Volvo 1800ES "Bob"
1998 Red Ford Ranger
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Hootch
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Your car is a: 1978 Fiat 124 Spider 1800
Location: Boise, Idaho

Re: Dimensions (depth) for stereo DIN

Post by Hootch »

Thanks for the input! The cupholder/drawer on the Amazon link I shared might be the direction I head in for now. I will probably do a little digging first, and maybe find something that looks more durable.

I'm going to replace my dash panels at the same time - frankly, the thought of all those 40-year-old wires gives me hives. But I've had an intermittent grounding issue ("look ma - no dash lights!"), so it will be good get in there and sand down some of those old connections and clean things up a bit.

I'll post pics when I get it all put back together again.

Tim
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1978 124 Spider (1592 cc motor)
2012 Mini Cooper Clubman S
2004 Aprilia Mojito
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F16Waldo
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Re: Dimensions (depth) for stereo DIN

Post by F16Waldo »

Hi Hootch
I just installed a Pioneer stereo (MVH-X39OBT) for less than $100 (Amazon) that fits nicely. Looked around and bought it based upon recent reviews from CNET etc. No CD player so similar to depth of original unit. Unit also has Bluetooth, remote etc so you can answer phone calls and use Spotify, Slacker or similar. Liked it so much I installed it on my other old project vehicle (75 Ford). Bottomline...it fits, its pocketbook friendly and it works like the real radios availble in current cars.
My $0.02
Waldo
Damsels Rescued...Dragons Slain
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