Thanks to everyone who has helped with the 55-59 work. This entire post here includes discussion on that as well as the 54 model, etc. This morning I'm going to just focus on an update on work related to the 55-59, however. Please remember...I don't own one of these nor do I have access to one so that has been a challenge for me.
The work on the mounting piece is done. There will be no room to attach the antenna plug on the mounting piece (as there was in the AD) so it will be epoxied to the circuit board as you see below. Not a problem as it works fine. Actually I'm listening to a radio station on one as I type this.
The second image shows where holes will be drilled to match the holes in the radio piece. (red dots)
The third image shows how this radio and the surround piece will be mounted. As you know the original blank out plate mounted with clips. Those clips are not practical for mounting the radio, so I've decided to use a toggle bolt/molly bolt gizmo to attach it.
The original on/off/volume and tuning knob holes (unless I find an alternative) will be covered using the same ones I made for the AD truck. The original block-off knobs for these holes when no radio was in the truck were slightly different. I've asked for these but I have not found any yet. There are reproductions out there, but they don't match original. If you have original covers, please contact me, we can work out getting them here (and back to you) and I'll make a silicone mold to cast them.
That's pretty much it up to this point. The fiberglass surround piece and the hole covers will need to be painted to match your dash (or any color you wish) just like in the AD and all other adaptations.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
~ Jon 1952 1/2 ton with 1959 235 | T5 with 3.07 rear end
