How to Install a CD Player in a 1998 Chevy Lumina

by Blaze Johnson

Replacing the original stock radio for your 1997 Chevrolet Lumina with an aftermarket CD-player head unit may increase the vehicle's audio performance, while providing a solid base for future system upgrades. The task will require specialized mounting and adaption accessories, which must be acquired separately.

Radio Removal

Step 1

Turn off the vehicle and remove the key from the ignition. Open the vehicle's hood and disconnect the negative battery cable from the “-” battery post using a wrench or ratchet and socket.

Step 2

Loosen the screws securing the knee panel, located below the steering wheel, using a screwdriver. This will reduce the chance of the bezel binding during the removal process.

Step 3

Separate the dash bezel from the dashboard using your fingers or plastic pry tool. Place the dash bezel outside of the vehicle or on the rear seat.

Step 4

Remove the two screws securing the radio to the dash using an extension, socket and ratchet.

Step 5

Slide the radio out of the dash opening. Disconnect the main wiring harness connector and antenna cable from the rear of the stock radio unit. Place the stock radio unit out of the way.

Step 6

Examine the inside of the radio opening and remove the center-mounted radio support from the floor of the cavity using a sharp utility knife to score the plastic and your fingers to break the support free.

Installation

Step 1

Examine the wiring diagrams supplied with the aftermarket radio and factory radio harness adapter. Splice the wires from the factory radio harness adapter to the corresponding connector wiring for the aftermarket stereo, using butt connectors and a pair of wire crimps. Always refer to the wiring diagrams supplied with the two products when making each connection.

Step 2

Wrap the harness adapter splice connectors and wiring with electrical tape.

Step 3

Assemble the mounting kit according to the product's specific instructions. Remove the chassis sleeve from the aftermarket radio. Fit the chassis sleeve into the mounting kit opening and use a flat-head screwdriver to bend the appropriate sleeve tabs outward to secure the piece in place.

Step 4

Slide the aftermarket radio into the chassis sleeve. Connect the harness adapter to the factory radio harness; connect the remaining end to the rear of the radio.

Step 5

Connect the antenna adapter to the antenna cable; connect the antenna cable to the back of the stereo.

Step 6

Slide the mounting kit and installed radio into the dash opening. Secure the mounting kit to the dash with the original screws used for the factory radio with an extension, socket and ratchet.