The 1990 Ford Explorer popularized the SUV as an alternative to the station wagon. Changing out the stereo on the Explorer is one of the easier projects for the do-it-yourselfer. With the right tools, it takes less than an hour. Ford Explorers used a pin tool to loosen the radio from the dash but you can make your own with a coat hanger.
Open the hood and remove the negative battery cable. Ensure it is resting away from any metal parts.
Cut two 8-inch pieces of coat hanger and bend them into a U-shape. Adjust the hangers until they fit easily into the two front mounting holes on each side of the stereo. Press the hangers into the holes. Squeeze each of the "U" pieces together and pull. The radio will pull out of the dash. Later model Explorers have to remove the trim ring to expose the mounting pinholes.
Pull the stereo head unit out of the dash and remove the wires. Other Ford systems will swap out and plug directly into the original wiring.
Connect the new head unit wiring harness adapter to the original wiring for an aftermarket installation. Snap the wire harness into the back of the new head unit and reattach the battery negative cable.
Turn the new Explorer radio on and verify each of the speakers is working and radio control is possible. Slide the new head unit into the dash until you hear the mounting pins click into place.
