Chrysler Repair: 2000 Chrysler Cirrus radio problems, chrysler cirrus lxi, 2000 chrysler cirrus lxi

Question
Hello, I have a 2000 Chrysler Cirrus LXI w/ radio problems. I'm not sure how much you can help but I though I would ask b/4 I spent any money. No previous problems. Started about 2 wks ago. The radio worked, I shut the car off, turned it back on and it didn't work. Fuses are all good. Radio will cut in and out during the drive. Usually will stay on for about 5 min. into drive and then cut out. If it comes back on then it stays on. Will sometimes make a "shorting out" noise. Kinda like a crinkaling noise. When radio goes out so does the time. All lights in radio panel work when it's out except for the back lights for the bass and treble. I don't have to reset time or stations when it comes back on. I appreciate any help you can give me. Hope this is enough info. Thank-you.

Answer
Hi Erin,
To check whether the problem is electrical, I would  monitor fuse  #14 under the dash to see if the voltage to operate the radio is dropping out. If you have a solid supply, then I suspect the radio itself is failing. If you have the premium radio system, then also monitor fuse #8 which provides voltage to the separate power amplifier. That then will allow you to focus on either the voltage supply or the radio itself. When testing the fuse supply, make measurements on both sides of the fuse, just in case the fuse itself is cracked and failing with use, then healing itself as it cools down. You may see a crack in the wire inside the fuse if this were the case.
Roland