2011 Ranger Stereo

[Truckee]

First post. I did search, but found nothing on what I'd like to know.

Looking to upgrade stereo for better sound, hands free phone, CarPlay display of Apple Map GPS. I like Crutchfield, found a nice Kenwood BUT with a warning,

"Use care when installing the dash kit. Once the kit is snapped into place, you won't be able to remove it without also removing the entire dash panel."

WTH? What a design nightmare. It looks like the install kit from Kenwood might be the way to go??

Any other install kits recommended for 2DIN stereos?

Thank you.

 

[fastpakr]

If it's the same as my 99, that warning doesn't really mean much. The "entire dash panel" for that bezel only requires removing a few screws.

 

[Truckee]

I asked Crutchfield point blank and they confirmed the ENTIRE dashboard!

I tried to find out what allows the removal of the stereo with dashboard off....they couldn't tell me, smh.

I may end up getting the Crutchfield nightmare and see what it would take to modify installation allowing ability to get to locking mechanism from the front. Could be as worse as drilling holes you'd have to cover with a cap of some sort.

OR?

 

[fastpakr]

Can you post a picture of your dash?
Edit - found an 11 on ebay. Looks exactly like my 99. When they say entire dash panel, they're just referring to the center bezel. Two screws above the air conditioning controls, then a few electrical plugs. It might take five minutes.

 

[Truckee]

It doesn't appear why you can't just remove the bezel vice dash board.

 

[fastpakr]

Right. The dash cover is behind the bezel that surrounds the radio. Not in your way at all.

 

[delaware74b]

It looks just like my '04 center stack. Pull the 2 screws above the outer HVAC controls (7mm). Pull the bezel off, center vents come off with it. Disconnect the power points and set aside.

 

[Ranger850]

I asked Crutchfield point blank and they confirmed the ENTIRE dashboard!

I tried to find out what allows the removal of the stereo with dashboard off....they couldn't tell me, smh.

Because they're stereo guys, not car guys.