I need to install a non-standard size radio in my dash...

[heyjoojoo]

Hello, I want to install a mobile scanner in my dash but not sure how to do it. The scanner is not the usual size of stereo radio decks. It's probably 1-3 inches shorter in width, length and depth (see below). Does anyone have any ideas on how to install something that does not have standard dimensions into the dash directly beneath my stereo deck in that space. (I took out my storage bay and so I have space there now)

The scanner I am considering is the Uniden BC355C - Dimensions: 5-3/16”(W) x 5-3/4”(D) x 1-5/8”(H) considerably smaller than the space it's going into...

Or perhaps another mobile scanner suggestion...

 

[majoco]

Some of the Uniden scanners are what they call "DIN" sized. My BCT8 is, and its about 6-15/16" wide x 2" high.

 

[rngr2000]

Just used some thin sheet metal and make a frame around it. Thats what I did to mount my PRO-163 in the ashtray opening on my F-150. I'll see if I can post some pics.

 

[jmp883]

As has been stated you can always fabricate a mounting panel/bracket. However, based on the photo you provided it looks like a DIN-size scanner like the Uniden 996 or BCT- 15 (along with the comparable GRE units) would fit perfectly right in beneath your stereo with no custom fabricating necessary.

Good luck with your installation and post a pic or two when you get everything mounted up!

 

[heyjoojoo]

As has been stated you can always fabricate a mounting panel/bracket. However, based on the photo you provided it looks like a DIN-size scanner like the Uniden 996 or BCT- 15 (along with the comparable GRE units) would fit perfectly right in beneath your stereo with no custom fabricating necessary.

Good luck with your installation and post a pic or two when you get everything mounted up!

Thanks for the reply.

How do I fabricate mounting brackets? Where do I get them to fabricate them? I know, I originally had the Bearcat 780xlt installed until I bought my stereo deck. Then I had to remove the 780xlt because my paneling would not fit back in place - such a pain that was. I had to remove the bottom housing of the 780xlt to install it in the first place and then resolder the antenna bnc connector and move it to the bottom of the unit in order for it to fit. the 780xlt was too long by a mere cm or so. I dont believe it was designed for mobile use in a stereo deck bay. Those DIN sized scanners may be problematic for my bay.

 

[heyjoojoo]

Just used some thin sheet metal and make a frame around it. Thats what I did to mount my PRO-163 in the ashtray opening on my F-150. I'll see if I can post some pics.

Where does one get sheet metal and cut it to shape?

 

[SmitHans]

Where does one get sheet metal and cut it to shape?

You could also use plastic. Radio Shack used to sell plastic project boxes (don't know if they still do) that I have used to make radio mounts, switch boxes and display panels. A bit easier to work with than sheet metal.

 

[burner50]

Where does one get sheet metal and cut it to shape?

Try a local machine shop.

If they don't sell the stuff outright, odds are they could come up with a couple of scraps that they would get rid of fairly cheap.

Or give them your measurements and have them fabricate the parts for you.

 

[tnrubicon]

Lowes, TSC carry various sizes exp 1ft sq; 3 ft sq. That would thick enough to support the scanner. But thin enough to cut with some tin snips. I would think your local hardware store would have some also. With a little bending and a few holes drilled. you'd be all set,

 

[CoolCat]

You can buy small panels of sheet metal (both steel and aluminum) as well as sheets of lexan at Home Depot. Lexan would probably be the easiest material to make a 'faceplate' out of.

That being said, you would probably be better off buying an actual DIN radio (not just one that is close to DIN size). The BCT15X and BCD996XT are actual DIN mountable scanners. You simply remove the outer casing and the internal frame slides into a DIN mounting sleeve. The BCD996XT comes with a sleeve. The BCT15X doesn't come with one, but it can be purchased separately.

Good Luck

 

[heyjoojoo]

You can buy small panels of sheet metal (both steel and aluminum) as well as sheets of lexan at Home Depot. Lexan would probably be the easiest material to make a 'faceplate' out of.

That being said, you would probably be better off buying an actual DIN radio (not just one that is close to DIN size). The BCT15X and BCD996XT are actual DIN mountable scanners. You simply remove the outer casing and the internal frame slides into a DIN mounting sleeve. The BCD996XT comes with a sleeve. The BCT15X doesn't come with one, but it can be purchased separately.

Good Luck

What's the depth of those units? If they're anything close to the 780xlt, it's not going to fit...

 

[jmp883]

Sorry for not replying quicker but everyone who has posted since my post have given you some great ideas.

Ideally, if you have the money to spend, buying one of the DIN-size scanners will be your easiest option.

Good luck!

 

[heyjoojoo]

Sorry for not replying quicker but everyone who has posted since my post have given you some great ideas.

Ideally, if you have the money to spend, buying one of the DIN-size scanners will be your easiest option.

Good luck!

Thanks.
Well, it depends, if the Uniden 780xlt was considered a DIN-sized unit than it's not going to work. The depthness is the problem...