Audio Systems: a/m static, chevy truck, ground straps

Question
I have a 1988 chevy truck. when i try to listen to a/m on my radio i get nothing but static. if i shut the car off and listen with the key in aux it works perfectly. I purchased a new radio and the same thing happens

Answer
John,
When you listen to your AM radio without the engine running and you do not have the static in the AM receiver,it confirms that your radio is picking up ignition noise from the engine and/or from the engine computer if your vehicle has one. You can sometimes reduce the engine noise by installing copper ground straps under the hood and fastening them to the fire wall. Second, you may want to install a better antenna and a radio noise filter in the power line/s to the stereo. lastly, try installing a heavy ground wire from the stereo to the fire wall of your truck.

TOM,
T&D ELECTRONICS
tdeser@zoominternet.net