Car Stereos: 1997 Sebring Jxi adding 3.5 mm input, fm radio antenna, chrysler sebring jxi

Question
Is there any way to add a 3.5 mm input jack to my 1997 Chrysler Sebring Jxi stock infinity sound system with Chrysler 6-CD changer? I am comfortable with wiring etc. I just can't seem to find anyone who has done this before. Do I need to buy an after-market stereo system?

Answer
Hi Dan,

There are a few devices available that will allow you to add an auxiliary input connection to your factory radio, using the CD changer port.  However, these products require that you disconnect the factory CD changer.  If you don't mind losing the 6-disc changer, then one of these device will give you the best sound quality from your auxiliary source.  An example is PIE's CHRY-AUX adapter.  The wiring is very simple; you just have to unplug the factory changer's DIN connector from the back of the radio, and plug in the adapter instead.

Another option is a hardwired FM-modulator.  These work by converting the audio signal to an FM radio signal, so you tune in the auxiliary source as an FM radio station.  A hardwired adapter feeds the signal directly into the head unit's antenna plug, while simultaneously cutting off the signal from the AM/FM radio antenna.  This gives you a clear signal without interference from local radio stations.  This type of setup would allow you to keep the factory radio and CD changer.  One example is Peripheral Electronics' IS77 adapter; this setup includes a 3.5mm auxiliary jack that can be flush-mounted on the dash or console, or it gives you the option to use an iPod dock connector.  Installation is a bit more difficult than the changer port adapter above, because you need to make a connection to the power wiring, as well as install a switch.

You can replace the factory head unit with an after-market deck pretty easily.  Just about all in-dash CD players currently include an auxiliary input jack; but none of them would work with your stock 6-disk changer.

Hope this helps!

Brian