2004 stock radio intermittent

[Jason312]

Hi all.

I just bought a 2004 ranger XLT 4x4. The radio works sometimes.....

I've checked the radio plug with a multimeter and found the red/blk wire that mutes the radio (hot in start) has 5v all the time regardless of the key position. I'm guessing this is not right and causing the problem.

If so, how do I fix it?
I thought about cutting it but I'm sure it's there for a reason.

Thanks!
Jason

 

[RonD]

You can cut it, radio only uses it for MUTE, in 3rd party radio installs it is left unconnected
But tape or otherwise terminate the end, as it does have 12volts with key turned to START

The 5volts is probably coming from a short on your Clutch switch, it has at least 1 5volt wire in the 6 wire connector, but just a guess

 

[Jason312]

Thanks Ron!
I'll cut it and report back.

I thought the clutch being pressed in affected it once so maybe your guess is correct.

 

[Jason312]

Problem solved!

Cutting that (red/blk) mute wire didn't make a difference BUT while I was back in there messing with the wires it shut off again. This time I noticed the clock reset back to 12:00 meaning it must be the always hot wire (green/violet). I have tested it ohh so many times with my multi meter and it always had 12+v sticking the multimeter lead in it.
However, the pin in the plug was NOT making a reliable connection with the pin on the radio.

Since I just cut the (red/blk) wire I pulled those 2 pins from the plug and put the good pin (red/blk) in the always hot location where the (grn/vio) goes. Then I cut and spliced the (grn/vio) hot wire to the (red/blk) wire that's now in its spot.

Thanks again Ron for your fast response?

Jason