Crutchfield says...

I would just like to say Hello to everyone, this is my first post.
I do have a serious question though. Many people tell me to go to crutchfield.com to select all the parts I need for an audio installation. They have the brackets and adapters to install a deck but they say that there are no CD decks that fit. I called and asked why and they said that my 97 riv has a shallow dash and if I put a deck in. Now I've seen pics of people with custom decks (some with the deck angled oddly actually) and the 2Din DVD player deck (which looks freaking amazing) but I can't find a writeup on how to install a normal aftermarket deck. If someone could point one out, or give me any advice about my 'shallow dash' I would greatly appreciate it

Click on the "Write -Ups section at the top of the page and you will find what you are looking for.
Look for the write up on double din install and it will show where you need to cut for proper fitment.
It is all do-able.

The options are:
Custom 6.5" Door Speakers
Stage I Voltage Booster
Radar/Laser Detector Relocation & Hidden Wire
Installing a 2DIN DVD player into a G-Body Riviera
Fixing HVAC dimming problem in a G-Body Riviera
Replacing bulbs in a G-Body Riviera head unit
Driver's Side Door Window/Lock Switch Internals
PAC steering wheel control interface
Concert Sound II Wiring Diagram

The bolded sections show parts that deal with installation but I'm looking to install a single din deck not a double din. In the 2din you have to cut a section out of the back; is that true with a single din? The wiring diagram is great, but not needed if you buy the GM adapter. Are there any repercussions of installing a new deck? (Specifically dealing with the security codes that are normally outputted on the stock deck) These are the kind of questions that I can't find answers to.

If I am completely blind, can someone point out a writeup of a single din installation? Or post some comments on their installation, even problems they had to overcome. I've installed decks before, but we can all agree the Riv is a unique beast.

Deft wrote:

In the 2din you have to cut a section out of the back; is that true with a single din? The wiring diagram is great, but not needed if you buy the GM adapter. Are there any repercussions of installing a new deck? (Specifically dealing with the security codes that are normally outputted on the stock deck) These are the kind of questions that I can't find answers to.

First, yes the photo's of the DD install will help with the cutting necesary for a single Din.
There is also a write up on installing the interface that allows you to continue to use your steering wheel controls. PAC something or other.
I haven't done mine yet but I've picked through the info that is available and have found everything I thought I needed.

Rickw wrote:

Deft wrote:

In the 2din you have to cut a section out of the back; is that true with a single din? The wiring diagram is great, but not needed if you buy the GM adapter. Are there any repercussions of installing a new deck? (Specifically dealing with the security codes that are normally outputted on the stock deck) These are the kind of questions that I can't find answers to.

First, yes the photo's of the DD install will help with the cutting necesary for a single Din.
There is also a write up on installing the interface that allows you to continue to use your steering wheel controls. PAC something or other.
I haven't done mine yet but I've picked through the info that is available and have found everything I thought I needed.

Yup I found the information about keeping my steering controls using the PAC SWI-PS for Samsung and Sony decks (which will probably be my choice so I keep the steering wheel functions) Thanks for the info on having to still cut the dash out. I'll be prepared for it. Any ideas on the security repercussions of installing an aftermarket deck?

I don't think anybody who has swapped decks had any security issues.
I know on my car I had the security feature turned off completely by the dealer when i had in for other service. But if you know the code that your radio is set to you can do it yourself. There is a simple procedure in the FSM regarding that topic.
In my case the battery had been disconnected when I had the Trans rebuilt and the radio locked out with a code. If i knew what security code the previous owner had set in the radio I could have done it myself.
If the small red light below and to the right of your volume knob doesn't flash when the key is out of the ignition then you nothing to worry about. The security feature is turned off.
The security feature is for the radio only and does not affect any part of the anti-theft of the car itself.

Rickw wrote:

I don't think anybody who has swapped decks had any security issues.
I know on my car I had the security feature turned off completely by the dealer when i had in for other service. But if you know the code that your radio is set to you can do it yourself. There is a simple procedure in the FSM regarding that topic.
In my case the battery had been disconnected when I had the Trans rebuilt and the radio locked out with a code. If i knew what security code the previous owner had set in the radio I could have done it myself.
If the small red light below and to the right of your volume knob doesn't flash when the key is out of the ignition then you nothing to worry about. The security feature is turned off.
The security feature is for the radio only and does not affect any part of the anti-theft of the car itself.

THANK YOU! This was the big issue I was thinking about and I haven't been able to find an answer to it. That's everything I needed to know. Thanks again

There are lots of brands of deck you can use and still retain the steering wheel controls.

sqrivi wrote:

There are lots of brands of deck you can use and still retain the steering wheel controls.

Does that require the use of a device similar PAC device?

Yes, there are several PAC pieces for diferent brands.

Any DIN or DD head you install will require the standard GM to DD or D adapter, and will require some dremeling/cutting of the plastic behind the 'shallow' installation.