Removing your car stereo can seem daunting, especially when faced with the prospect of buying specialized tools. However, for many DIY enthusiasts, spending money on tools that might only be used once feels unnecessary. If you’re looking to remove your car audio system without breaking the bank, you’ll be pleased to know there’s a simple and effective homemade solution using readily available materials. This guide will walk you through creating your own Car Audio Removal Tool from a humble steel hanger, saving you time and money.
Materials You’ll Need
Before we begin, gather these easily accessible materials:
- Steel Hanger: A steel hanger from a hanging file folder (Pendaflex type) works perfectly. Ensure it’s the smooth, flat type, not the stamped or shaped variety.
- Cutting Tool: A bandsaw with a metal cutting blade is ideal, but a hacksaw will also do the job.
- Bench Grinder or File: To smooth and shape the ends of the tool.
- Hacksaw Blade (or similar thin blade): For creating a notch in the tool.
- Wire Wheel or Sandpaper: To deburr and smooth the edges for safe use.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Tool
Let’s get hands-on and create your car audio removal tool:
Step 1: Cut the Hanger
Take your steel hanger and cut off two 5-inch strips. The width of the hanger should ideally be around 5/16″, which is just right for most car stereo removal slots.
Step 2: Grind the Ends
Using a bench grinder or a file, carefully round the ends of each steel strip. Create a smooth radius as shown in the example image to ensure easy insertion and prevent damage to your car stereo or dashboard.
Step 3: Notch the Ends
Now, using your hacksaw blade, cut a notch at the end of the rounded radius. This notch should be approximately 1/4 to 1/3 of the width of the steel strip. The width of the notch should be just slightly wider than the thickness of a standard hacksaw blade.
Step 4: Smooth the Edges
Finally, use a wire wheel or sandpaper to thoroughly smooth all the ends and radii of your newly created tools. This step is crucial to remove any burrs or sharp edges that could scratch or damage your car stereo faceplate or the removal slots. Ensure the ends are perfectly smooth to prevent any mishaps during stereo removal.
How to Use Your DIY Car Audio Removal Tool
With your homemade car audio removal tools ready, here’s how to safely remove your car stereo:
- Locate the Stereo Removal Slots: Identify the factory stereo removal slots on the lower left and right corners of your car stereo face. These are usually small, rectangular slots.
- Insert the Tools: Take your two DIY tools and insert them into the removal slots. Make sure the curved sides of the tools are facing inwards, towards the center of the stereo.
- Push and Listen for a Click: Push the tools firmly into the slots until you hear an audible click from each side. This click indicates that the tool has engaged the release mechanism within the stereo housing.
- Pull Out the Stereo: Once both tools are clicked in, gently push the cassette door (if applicable) or use your fingers to get a grip on the face of the stereo. Carefully pull and slide the stereo out of the dashboard. Be mindful of the surrounding trim to avoid scratches.
- Remove the Tools: After the stereo is out, you can remove the tools by pushing in the spring clips on the sides of the stereo. This will release the tools, allowing you to pull them straight out from the front of the stereo.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve successfully created and used your own car audio removal tool. This simple DIY method not only saves you money but also provides a satisfying sense of accomplishment. Whether you’re upgrading your car stereo system or just need to access the wiring behind it, this homemade tool is a reliable and cost-effective solution for any car enthusiast. Remember to always work carefully and patiently to avoid any damage to your vehicle’s interior.
