I have a 1990 T-bird with premium sound and just recently installed an aftermarket 100 dollar Alpine stereo. The main issue is not with the speaker wires being wired directly to the head unit, but making sure the blue wire that controls whether the stock amp is powered on is connected to the head unit. It is difficult and time consuming to rewire speakers, the best bet is to wire it correctly. And I did not have to add a ground wire like the shop suggests.
These cars have a factory amp system that will not operate correctly with an aftermarket stereo. You have two choices. You can either run new wires to the speakers your self which would bypass the factory amp. Or you can order the premium sound system Interface here http://www.myinstallkit.com/FORD/1990%20(90)%20FORD%20THUNDERBIRD%20Radio%20-%20Stereo%20Installation%20Kit.htm scroll about half way down the page.
I would have loved to order the interface but I've already clipped the plugs of the original wiring harness. I jumped too soon. It looks like I'm going to have to go the rewire route. Do you know where the amp is located? I've heard either under the dash or in the trunk but I've not found it in either location.
Thanks for the help.
What you have heard is correct. It is either under the dash or in the trunk. If it is under the dash it could be either behind and below the radio bay. Or behind and above. If it is in the trunk it could be in between the speakers on the rear deck, or on the floor of the trunk close to the front by the seat. If on the floor it may be covered by the trunk capet. If you are going the rewire route, you dont really need to find it. Just use the factory wiring for the positive, ground, and memory. Then run new wires to all the speakers, and hook them up directly to the new radio.
Good luck
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