The Chevrolet Astro van has a single-DIN factory stereo. Single-DIN is the stereo size that will fit into the mounting dock of the van without modifying the dashboard of the vehicle. When replacing the Astro's stereo, you need to first take precaution against shorting the vehicle's electrical system by disconnecting the grounding cable. You should also check the new stereo to make sure the output is acceptable for the Astro van's speakers. You can have an audio professional perform the installation, or you can do it yourself and save the cost of labor.
Disconnect the negative battery cable (or grounding cable) from the Astro's negative battery lead. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to loosen the grounding cable's clamp. Remove the clamp from the negative lead post and rest it away from the battery until the installation is complete.
Remove the dash trim panel from the center console of the vehicle. The trim panel snaps away from the dash by hand. Grab the panel at the bottom edge and work your hands around the perimeter until the panel is completely free from the dash.
Disengage the four clips around the stereo. The four clips can be pried open by a trim panel tool or flat-head screwdriver.
Pull the stereo from the mounting dock far enough to access the wiring connections in the back. Pull the wiring from the stereo. The antenna and power supply cables are single wires, and the speaker wires are bundled together by a plastic wire binder. Pull the speaker wiring by the binders, not the wires themselves.
Connect the stereo wiring from the Astro to a wiring harness adapter. Connect the wiring harness adapter leads to the new stereo. The wiring harness leads will be clearly marked (by abbreviation or color code) to show where the appropriate connections are to be made.
Insert the new stereo deck into the mounting dock of the vehicle. Fasten the four clips surrounding the stereo by hand. They will snap back into place, securing the new stereo into the Astro's dock.
Replace the dash trim panel that surrounds the stereo. Align the top edge of the panel and press the panel around the edges to lock it back into place.
Place the grounding cable clamp around the negative battery lead. Tighten the clamp with a Phillips-head screwdriver.
