Base 2001 Chevrolet Silverado 3500s came equipped with an AM-FM radio with an integrated digital clock. That radio was paired with a mere two door speakers. All other trim levels came with a compact disc player, an optional cassette player and six speakers throughout the truck. For some owners, the factory-equipped stereo in any trim level is not heavy-duty enough to complement the truck. Modern features such as auxiliary inputs and built-in GPS navigation are only available by replacing the factory unit.
Most vehicle stereos are built within standardized dimensions, named DIN and Double-DIN. However, the molding around the stereo will vary by vehicle. Aftermarket manufacturers produce mounting kits that can replace the factory molding with one that will allow an aftermarket stereo to fit the 3500’s unique stereo cavity.
Aftermarket stereos typically come with a detachable electrical connector, and the wire colors of the connector are standardized with all aftermarket connectors. The vehicle’s wires do not match these. To forgo to the need to hardwire the new stereo to the truck’s wiring, a wiring adapter is used to bridge the two. It allows you to splice the adapter to the new stereo’s connector and then simply plug it all into the vehicle’s existing stereo connector.
If your truck is equipped with stereo controls on the steering wheel, you will also need an adapter for those wires. These adapters vary greatly by manufacturer, but all serve the same purpose -- to allow the electric signal from the wheel inputs to reach the stereo.
