alrobinson78

I cannot figure out how to remove the radio from my97 F250 XL. Is there some special tool or technique I need to use?

wwb

There is a special tool for removing Ford radios of that vintage.... it's two "U" shaped heavy wire loops with notches near each free end. If you look at the face of your radio, you'll see two small holes on the right side and two small holes on the left side.... that's where the "U" shaped tools push in; spread the free ends of the tools apart, and they release little clips in the mounting rail.... then the radio pulls straight out.

alrobinson78

Thanks. I'll give that a try, assuming the tool is available at an auto parts store.

cbranje

Would 2 hangers work?

Sand1

The tool is available at most auto parts stores and costs very little. The U-shape also gives you something to pull on when removing the radio. You could cut 4 pieces of coat hanger and get it out. Make them about 3 inches long and insert into the holes until you feel it push the retainers back. Then work the radio out.

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cbranje

how do I know when I've pushed them back?

I tried some stuff today, didn't seem to work too well.

Sand1

It would be best to grab the tools for it. You can remove it with the wire. The clips are going to be tight, you only need to insert the wire about 2 inches, you may have to move it around a bit to pop the clips loose. You should be able to feel it hit them when you push the wire in. The clips need to release into the radio. Meaning they are attached to the radio and spread out into the bracket to lock it into place. Make sense? Gently pull on the radio while inserting the wire and you will feel the radio give a bit when you get one unlocked. I have used allen wrenches, drill bits you name it to remove them. The tool is easier though.

__________________
I love it when people do things right
Unfortunetly I dont always do that lol