There is nothing like a ’56 Chevy. But what happens when you turn up that old AM radio and single dash speaker? It’s a big disappointment, to say the least. We have a customer with one such beauty, and we were recently able to perform an upgrade to the stereo without lowering the integrity of the car.
Right from the start, we knew the dash could NOT be cut to install an aftermarket radio. That was completely out of the question. After going over several options with the customer, here’s what we decided… JL Audio manufactures an interface called a CL-RLC. This piece is a remote level control as well as a line driver. Combining the CL-RLC with an IS76 made by PAC Audio, we were able to use strictly an iPod as the music source. The IS76 cable plugs into the bottom of any iPod, charging it while plugged in. Designing the stereo this way, we were able to leave the dash original. The only part visible is the volume knob for the CL-RLC, which we mounted in an existing hole on the dash. THE ONLY reason we mounted it on the dash was because the previous owner had already drilled a hole for a toggle switch. Otherwise we would have found a hidden location for the knob. The IS76 cable was installed in the glovebox, giving you easy access to the iPod in order to change tracks, or to load (if using an iPhone) internet radio apps such as Pandora or Jango.
Our next step was to provide power and install speakers. We chose an amplifier made by Arc Audio; the KS125.2 mini. This amplifier was small enough to be completely hidden. We then installed JL Audio TR690TXi coax speakers in the rear deck. This is the only part of the vehicle that needed to be modified in this scenario. Using simply the Arc Audio amplifier, the TR 6×9 speakers and an iPod, you would be amazed at the output and sound quality of this stereo! The customer was more than satisfied with the performance of this set up, and he is now able to enjoy his music while out on a Sunday cruise or while sitting at a car show!
One other request the customer had was to add an alarm to the vehicle. He did not want it to chirp when arming or disarming, did not want the lights to flash, and basically didn’t want ANYONE to know it had an alarm. He just wanted to be notified in some way shape or form that someone was getting into (or tampering with) his vehicle. We installed a 2W703 alarm system made by Compustar. Compustar is the “Cadillac” in the remote start/alarm world. All of their products are top notch. This 2W703 system is what’s known as a Two-Way Alarm. What this means is whenever the alarm is tripped, the master remote (while in the range of 1500 feet) will start beeping and vibrating letting the customer know the alarm has gone off. It even shows whether it’s the shock sensor that was tripped or if a door was opened. At that point the starter is also disabled, making it impossible for anyone to start the vehicle by turning the key cylinder.
We absolutely loved working on this car, and are looking forward to helping more of the classic and muscle car owners in the area to achieve their hopes and dreams!
