How to Install a Radio in a Dodge Dakota
by Jule Pamplin
Since the first was sold 1987, the midsized pickup truck has undergone several adaptations. The first model Dakota was offered with an AM/FM stereo cassette deck, while newer models have many options for in-dash entertainment. To connect an aftermarket stereo to a Dodge Dakota you will need to choose a model that fits into the stereo mounting dock of the truck and adapt to any hardware incongruities. A single DIN stereo (2"x 7") using faceplate and wiring harness adapters is a common replacement stereo for the Dodge Dakota.
Step 1
Lift the hood of the Dodge Dakota and disconnect the negative battery cable from the negative lead post of the battery with the 10 mm wrench.
Step 2
Connect the Dodge stereo wiring to a wiring harness adapter. The stereo wiring plugs into the connectors on the wiring harness adapter; the wiring harness adapter will be clearly labeled to show where the proper connections are to be made.
Step 3
Insert the faceplate adapter from the installation kit into the vacant stereo mounting dock of the Dakota.
Step 4
Connect the wiring harness adapter leads to the back of the aftermarket stereo.
Step 5
Slide the aftermarket stereo into the stereo mounting dock of the Dodge Dakota.
Step 6
Replace the plastic dash panel that covers the center console and left dashboard controls. Screw in the eight screws with the Torx 15 socket and drive. (Four of the screws are for the corners around the stereo and climate control panel. The other four screws are for the vent and headlamp switches on the left side of the steering column.)
Step 7
Place the negative battery cable onto the negative lead of the battery. Tighten the negative battery cable to the lead post with a 10 mm wrench. Close the hood.
References
Things You'll Need
- Wrench, 10 mm
- Wiring harness adapter
- Stereo installation kit (including faceplate adapter)
- Torx 15 socket and drive
Writer Bio
Jule Pamplin has been a copywriter for more than seven years. As a financial sales consultant, Pamplin produced sales copy for two of the largest banks in the United States. He attended Carnegie-Mellon University, winning a meritorious scholarship for the Careers in Applied Science and Technology program, and later served in the 1st Tank Battalion of the U.S. Marine Corps.
