1992 Radio

[rbell2915]

Hey everyone, I'm looking into getting my father a new radio for his Riviera. Anyone have any suggestions? It's currently got an ugly aftermarket one. Would prefer an OEM style head unit.

 

[2007LucerneCXL]

Unfortunately there's probably not a big call for that GM 90's retro look. Also if the installation was hardwired or with an adaptor can make a mess out of a update, I think most would suggest looking at Crutchfield and get something that may not be so ugly that will also fit. Ebay has OEM used but conditions and length of service are always a factor, good luck on your search.

 

[CorvairGeek]

I bought this one from a '91 Riviera last year. It is also compatible with the external CD player (I didn't buy that) and steering wheel controls. It worked great when I removed it, but I Did Not check the cassette part of the unit. Still has the Riviera mounting brackets on it. That is actually the plastic still on the face at the bottom. I was trapped behind the trim plate since it was new!
I haven't cleaned it up or done anything with it since I brought it home. I decided to stay with the more common style already (have a few of them) in our '92 Century. The display being on the left side really isn't good in the Century, and the primary driver will complain. I'd sell it for $35 plus shipping. I'm in the high desert of Idaho (Boise), so even the metal parts of the case stay nice.

 

[rbell2915]

Hello CorvairGeek, because this site refuses to allow me to PM you to conduct business "for my protection" since I'm a new member, I have to put my email here in order for us to talk in private. Please email me at rbell2915(at)gmail.com and I'm also interested in other radios you might have for sale. Thank you.

 

[LARRY70GS]

90-93 BUICK RIVIERA RADIO AM/FM FOUR CHANNEL STEREO OEM AC DELCO 16129994 | eBay

Buick Olds Delco BOSE factory cassette player radio stereo 89 90 91 92 16142604 | eBay

 

[mechanic80]

Unfortunately there's probably not a big call for that GM 90's retro look. Also if the installation was hardwired or with an adaptor can make a mess out of a update, I think most would suggest looking at Crutchfield and get something that may not be so ugly that will also fit. Ebay has OEM used but conditions and length of service are always a factor, good luck on your search.

I may have found something. Joying (China, sorry) sells a single DIN FM Bluetooth Backup ready that uses a detachable 170mm x 95mm adjustable, removeable screen that should fit nicely. Pricing ranges from $165 to $388 depending on screen style and capacity. This radio uses the smallest (6.2 Inch diameter) screen and I think will fit. I say "I think" because I don't have my Riviera yet, it's coming from CA next week. I had an '89 Riv a few years back and regretted selling it still today. Perhaps someone could tell me how good a 190x 95mm screen would look in the space provided. The less expensive model uses a real volume knob too! Fleabay sells them too.

 

[2007LucerneCXL]

I might suggest waiting till you get the vehicle then cut out a piece of cardboard to the screen size and see how it works. If you haven't looked into it a GM interface cable for the harness would save time doing a hardwire and if it ever needs to be removed also easier.

 

[mechanic80]

I have a piece of cardboard already cut to size! It currently has a Pioneer that works, but I think looks like hell. Waiting on receipt of the car before I do anything stupid.

 

[2007LucerneCXL]

Maybe someone else on the forum knows or can confirm but some Buicks have a OEM radio head units that are short to be able to fit in the dash. The PA and Lesabre of certain year have issues with a deep aftermarket units in the OEM slot and there has been some slight modifications needed. Also on some there's a thin ribbon wire that runs in the area, again someone who knows can confirm, but cut it and you are having a bad day.

 

[Amanda Hugenkiss]

Been a few years and the OP was for my car. Since then we've learned that if you want a GM radio, the dimming function will not work because the dimmer signal is PWM and comes from the gauge cluster. If your stock radio dies like mine did (no sound but otherwise appeared OK) the radio module is very easy to switch out, it is the top portion of the head unit and simply plugs into the display faceplate. Any number of GM cars will have this module in their radios. Millions of these out in the yards. Pick up a few for spares.

 

[CorvairGeek]

Been a few years and the OP was for my car. Since then we've learned that if you want a GM radio, the dimming function will not work because the dimmer signal is PWM and comes from the gauge cluster. If your stock radio dies like mine did (no sound but otherwise appeared OK) the radio module is very easy to switch out, it is the top portion of the head unit and simply plugs into the display faceplate. Any number of GM cars will have this module in their radios. Millions of these out in the yards. Pick up a few for spares.

GM called it the Control Data Module (CDM). Some are attached to the radio, some are located remote from the radio. There are only two main differences in them (non-Bose) with and without a graphic equalizer. That must be matched, otherwise, they work but don't sound 'right'. I personally only get (and occasionally sell) the units from 1994 and '95 models. They were much improved and more reliable. A unit in the trunk of a '95 DeVille and another with the cover removed (and removed from the radio for testing).