Installing an aftermarket CD player in a Ford Escort ZX2 dash involves finding a brand that fits into the dash kit. Some stereo manufacturers provide this information, while some do not. Brands that are made to fit certain cars usually fit into the dash without difficulty. To install brands that do not, modifying the dash to accommodate the unit is usually not a problem for audio installers. This is done by buying an aftermarket dash kit or customizing the ZX2 dash to house the CD player.
The Ford ZX2 stock sound system contains wire harnesses that control the radio power, CD player and speakers. There are basically two options in installing an aftermarket CD player in place of the stock unit. The first option is wiring the stereo with a compatible wiring unit so that it fits with the Ford wiring of the ZX2. This is usually done by a professional car audio tech. When the wiring is matched, the CD player is connected to the car's wiring system just like a stock CD player would be installed, using the existing speakers. The second, and most popular, option is to eliminate the Ford wiring, except the power wire, and run a new wiring system from the stereo itself.
Before wires are cut and a new CD player is installed, the dash kit is removed by unscrewing it from the dash unit. Most ZX2 dash kits (1997 to 2003) are secured with four screws, two on each side of the radio. Once the dash kit is removed, the stereo is unscrewed from the bottom and slid out. Wiring connectors and the antenna wire are removed and left hanging. The power wire is located and kept, while the rest of the wiring is either discarded or coiled up and tucked underneath the dash. A ground wire is installed on a solid metal piece connecting the frame of the car. The antenna, power and ground are connected to the CD player. Stock speakers are removed. Speaker wire runs from the CD player to the new speakers replace Ford speakers in the back windows, doors and dash. The system is tested and wiring is hidden under interior trim.
