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86 C4 Radio lights up antenna comes up no sound

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Old 05-08-2024, 10:57 AM
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Rnroutlaw1
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Default 86 C4 Radio lights up antenna comes up no sound

The title basically sums up my issue. I'm sure this prob has been a problem for others as the unit is old but with only 60k on the car you'd think it hasn't been used much. So I'm basically asking for input on a good alternative sound system that will fit and look nice or is it even possible to fix the factory system? Thanks!
Old 05-08-2024, 06:15 PM
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Cruisinfanatic
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Originally Posted by Rnroutlaw1
The title basically sums up my issue. I'm sure this prob has been a problem for others as the unit is old but with only 60k on the car you'd think it hasn't been used much. So I'm basically asking for input on a good alternative sound system that will fit and look nice or is it even possible to fix the factory system? Thanks!
check CTSY fuse
Old 05-09-2024, 03:00 AM
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JETS C3-C4
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Saw this post today referencing Bose service and two recommendations in it. If you do a search I think there are a couple of other places too. Check out the post in the link below.

https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...pair-shop.html
Old 05-12-2024, 08:29 PM
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Originally Posted by Cruisinfanatic
check CTSY fuse
Well, the CTSY fuse was not the issue but it was a quick easy check thank you! I'm not going to try and go through any big job on a 38 yr old stereo system so looks like I'll just upgrade to touch screen and new speakers. Prob gonna be happier with this anyhow we will see
Old 05-12-2024, 10:08 PM
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Originally Posted by Rnroutlaw1
Well, the CTSY fuse was not the issue but it was a quick easy check thank you! I'm not going to try and go through any big job on a 38 yr old stereo system so looks like I'll just upgrade to touch screen and new speakers. Prob gonna be happier with this anyhow we will see
Do your inside lights work with door open?
If they don't it is the CTSY fuse.
If it's not that, try leaving the radio on for a few minutes. The relay behind the dash can be weak and take a few seconds
If it still won't come on it could be the relay

Last edited by Cruisinfanatic; 05-16-2024 at 08:03 AM.
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Old 05-16-2024, 07:11 AM
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Originally Posted by Rnroutlaw1
Well, the CTSY fuse was not the issue but it was a quick easy check thank you! I'm not going to try and go through any big job on a 38 yr old stereo system so looks like I'll just upgrade to touch screen and new speakers. Prob gonna be happier with this anyhow we will see
Yup, most likely a damaged amplifier section in the radio if it's lighting up but no sound. You could send it back to https://www.doctordons.com/, which I've heard good things about, or go the upgrade route.

Personally, I enjoy the retro stock look, but then again, the Bose in my '96 is still fine, though I need to replace the caps on a few of the speaker amplifiers...I don't believe an 86 had amps at each speaker.

Just keep the radio so if you sell the car, you can give it to the buyer. Many people like keeping things stock with older cars.
Old 05-16-2024, 07:57 AM
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Originally Posted by bac22
Yup, most likely a damaged amplifier section in the radio if it's lighting up but no sound. You could send it back to https://www.doctordons.com/, which I've heard good things about, or go the upgrade route.

Personally, I enjoy the retro stock look, but then again, the Bose in my '96 is still fine, though I need to replace the caps on a few of the speaker amplifiers...I don't believe an 86 had amps at each speaker.

Just keep the radio so if you sell the car, you can give it to the buyer. Many people like keeping things stock with older cars.
Every speaker has an amp. The radio does not.
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Old 05-17-2024, 01:00 AM
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Originally Posted by Cruisinfanatic
Do your inside lights work with door open?
If they don't it is the CTSY fuse.
If it's not that, try leaving the radio on for a few minutes. The relay behind the dash can be weak and take a few seconds
If it still won't come on it could be the relay
Yes the interior lights do work when I open the door.🙂
Old 05-17-2024, 01:03 AM
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Originally Posted by Cruisinfanatic
Every speaker has an amp. The radio does not.
Yes I will definitely keep the radio and speakers if I ever do sell it. But for now it's going to get a nice new sound system. I'm one who likes the top off cruising to my 80s Rock n roll on a hot summer night!
Old 05-17-2024, 07:28 AM
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Originally Posted by Rnroutlaw1
Yes the interior lights do work when I open the door.🙂
Then it's either the radio or amp relay
Old 05-18-2024, 09:54 PM
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Originally Posted by Cruisinfanatic
Then it's either the radio or amp relay
My money is in my amp relay..its a cheap part that you can get at rockauto.com. it's kinda sucks to get to the relay. Best bet is to remove the dash pad and you will see the amp relay on one of the aluminum dash supports near the flasher.

Also check to see if the pink wire coming off the radio is making good connection. That is the amp relay trigger.

The relays can go bad when the resistance gets too high and builds heat.




Last edited by Kjdad; 05-18-2024 at 10:01 PM.
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