Audio Systems: radio install, dodge caravan, aftermarket radio

Question
Tom    I recently installed an aftermarket radio in a 1996 dodge caravan.Whoever installed the previous radio (also aftermarket)cut the wires of the van instead of using a harness.I installed the radio it works fine but it has no memory.You turn off the van and the clock goes back to 12:00 and the programmed stations are gone.Also now the dome light of the van stopped functioning when the the van is off and you open the doors but it works when the van is on.Can you please help with this mess.

Answer
George,
The yellow wire in the harness for the stereo must be connected to a 12 volt hot at all times for station memory. If you use a 12 volt test lamp look for a wire that has 12 volts on it with the key OFF. Do not connect any of the dimmer wires from the factory wiring to the new stereo, unless you know what wire is for the display dimmer.

TOM,
T&D ELECTRONICS
tdeser@zoominternet.net