I'm looking for info regarding the installation of a Pioneer Z1 stereo/DVD/NAV/XM unit (or equivalent) for my 98 C5. Really just looking for someone to tell me how painful it is to gut the Bose and to install the Z1. Any pointers (or opinions) would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Preston

 

Have you tried this place

http://www.crutchfield.com/S-9JixWQezPpt/

they have excellent support, and have been great with answering my questions regarding installs. Of course they like you to buy from them also, but of course your not obligated too.
I believe my service manual tells how to remove the stock unit, and you would have to have an adapter plate to install the new unit, and a wiring harness adapter.

 

If your going to do it then I would suggest going with a D3 instead of a Z1, the smaller face of the radio is almost a direct fit into your factory bezel without shaving....crutchfield wont be able to help you in this matter because they are only good with bolt in scenarios and a double din unit doesnt "bolt in" to a C5 vette. There is a harness available for your corvette from Soundgate and from Metra electronics. the harness allows you to leave your bose system intact wich I would highly recommend, as the system in a corvette is delicate and hard to replace. I have been a stereo installer and fabricator for 18 years and corvettes are at the top of my list for difficulty. Keep it simple, changing the radio alone will give you a better signal output to the bose amps as well as more equalization wich will allow you to "dial in" what you already have. Change the radio first and if your still not happy add a bass box and an amplifier to the system and that should make the difference your looking for. JL audio makes a stealth box for C5's that works very well. If you use a Z1 your going to have to do alot of cutting, trimming and shaving. if you use a D3 your main problem will just be mounting the unit...there shouldnt be alot of shaving to do. I have done several...I only wish I had taken pictures that I could show you.
good luck!

 

Are you talking about the Pioneer AVIC-D3? That will fit into the C5 Corvette?

 

Question to minesbroken-The height of the D3, according to the manufactors specs is 4 inches. the width 7 inches.The stock radio opening is approximately 3.5 inches.by 7.5 inches. So how does thePioneer AVIC-D3 fit in cleanly. Help!