Hi All,

Over the winter I have been upgrading a number of components on my 64 Austin Healey 3000 Mk III (owned since new) in preparation for a drive from NJ to FL. In the process I was considering replacing the original AM radio with an AM/FM MPX unit that would fit in the original cutout. Driving my 99TL on day, I started to think that maybe it would be better to replicate the Healey’s console (keeping the original in tact) and install a 1999-2003 Acura TL unit to get all the features I want (CD, Cassette, AM/FM and decent reception (electronic tuner).
I have viewed a few units on e-bay and will be bidding on a unit that includes the security code and wiring pigtail. I am looking to make a very simple installation – 2 speakers up front, manual AM/FM antenna, and a constant power connection. It is my understanding that the HU contains the amp for the front and rear speakers and only serves to power the rear base. I would appreciate hearing if my perceptions are correct and if there are any other issues I should be looking out for?

Thanks for any help or direction.

All the best,

Ray

 

Interesting project. I wish I had the space in the console of my MGB for something like that! I believe the TL stereo has an internal amp, but I believe there's also another small amp in the trunk area. You could go with the CL stereo (physically identical to the TL stereo), however the CL stereo requires an external amplifier.

 

Yeah, very interesting. As you mention above, just make sure that the deck has an internal amp strong enough to power your speakers. Other than that a factory deck has the same connections as a standard deck. You just need Constant 12 volts, Switched ACC or ignition, ground, and illumination.

 

Hi all,

Thanks for your replies. I have just completed the purchase of a 2000 Acura TL radio HU for a total of $62.00 (great price). Since this installation will be in a rather loud Austin Healey 3000 where just hearing would be the best that I could accomplish, I would appreciate your suggestions on the 2 front speakers you would recommend? I expect to mound the speakers high up in the kick plates to achieve the least observable alteration (I know, the radio will be mounted in the console and that alteration will be obvious to everyone – but reversible).

Also, by mounting the speakers in the kick panels, what would you recommend I do to protect the units from the elements, as they will be extending into an area behind the font fenders, which opens into the engine compartment?

Thanks again for your thoughts.

Ray

 

a 2002 or 2003 TL radio would have been better... 2000 TL cd players are notorious for having problems playing burned CDs. I got so annoyed about in it my 2000 TL, that I stuck to the radio.

 

At least his investment so far is pretty low. True the later stereos have in dash changer, but I'm not certain they're scientifically better at playing burned CDs.