Online: Nilo

1986 FLHTC - Stereo Replacement

  • JustinCase
    JustinCase
    5 years ago
    Hey guys,
    Sorry to reignite an old topic but I haven't had a stereo on a bike before plus I've not seen anything for my particular 1986 model tourer. Still have the original stereo unit but it's not working. I've done some research and it looks like I won't be using the handlebar controls which is a shame. 

    Apparently you can retro fit later models ('93 on I think) with decent stereos and retain all controls.

    Can someone please give me some guidance as to a decent quality stereo (and speakers) that will simply slot straight in with minimal hacking to plugs and wires.
    Is it possible to buy a plug and play unit? 
    Plus i'd like to keep the original oem clear plastic hinged cover, is that likely to happen? 

    Thanks in advance. 


  • paulybronco
    paulybronco
    5 years ago
    Yes you can get a plug and play for your bike. Think it was Hogtunes who do the upgrade. Will have a look for you when i get a moment.
  • paulybronco
    paulybronco
    5 years ago
    Sorry did not read your entire post....not sure about your plastic cover
  • JustinCase
    JustinCase
    5 years ago
    Hey pauly,
    No biggy on keeping the cover, although apart from keeping the old girl looking original it makes sense to keep the rain/water out. 

    Cheers mate
  • JustinCase
    JustinCase
    5 years ago
    Damn, just checked out Hogtunes but they don't supply anything for my old girl.
    They start at 1998. 
  • paulybronco
    paulybronco
    5 years ago
    Quoting JustinCase on 26 Aug 2018 10:03 AM

    Damn, just checked out Hogtunes but they don't supply anything for my old girl.

    They start at 1998. 

    I did recall seeing someone doing the older stuff.....will sleep on it perhaps will spring to mind
  • steelo
    steelo
    5 years ago
    What about something like this. You could keep the plastic flap :-)

  • JustinCase
    JustinCase
    5 years ago
    Thanks Pauly,
    Appreciate pretty much anything on this topic. 
    Just been poking around a HD forum in the US and found bugger all as well. 

    I'm no auto sparky so I'm flying blind to a certain degree. 

    Seems guys upgrade and increase speakers (to 6.5") which makes sense whilst in there doing open heart surgery. 
    Thanks
  • Jayman6
    Jayman6
    5 years ago
    Quoting steelo on 26 Aug 2018 10:55 AM

    What about something like this. You could keep the plastic flap :-)

    Cmon guys this is a non-issue. The guy below has nailed it.

  • steelo
    steelo
    5 years ago
    Justin. Can you post a picture of the existing installation. I see on Ebay there are many marine / waterproof replacements but are you saying they're no good until 98. There is an early model Harley radio also for sale.
  • JustinCase
    JustinCase
    5 years ago
    Quoting steelo on 26 Aug 2018 10:55 AM

    What about something like this. You could keep the plastic flap :-)

    If it comes with the record I'm in.
  • Steve L
    Steve L
    5 years ago
    For my 2013 Jensen make a stereo with speakers that connect up to the factory wiring and the hand controls still work.
  • JustinCase
    JustinCase
    5 years ago
    Quoting paulybronco on 27 Aug 2018 06:26 AM

    Sorry Justin cant find it , try this link these guys offer packages to allow your std controls to be used with their wiring harness

    Hey Pauly,
    Appreciate that link but I just checked and nothing there is referenced for an '86, the earliest is an '88.

    Thinking I might try and get the old unit fixed as the handlebar controls are still working. 
    Got a heads up today from a mate who knows someone who can fix old school car and bike radios. 
    It'll probably cost me a bomb but I'll have a crack anyway. 
  • JustinCase
    JustinCase
    5 years ago
    Quoting steelo on 26 Aug 2018 11:09 AM

    Justin. Can you post a picture of the existing installation. I see on Ebay there are many marine / waterproof replacements but are you saying they're no good until 98. There is an early model Harley radio also for sale.




    I understand to remove the unit I release the 2 allen head screws on the front, the single one in the centre at the rear and then remove the strut bar running across the top of the unit. It is then removed out through the rear. 
    The amount of wires within this fairing is some seriously scary shit. 
  • paulybronco
    paulybronco
    5 years ago
    Quoting steelo on 26 Aug 2018 11:09 AM

    Justin. Can you post a picture of the existing installation. I see on Ebay there are many marine / waterproof replacements but are you saying they're no good until 98. There is an early model Harley radio also for sale.

    Quoting JustinCase on 27 Aug 2018 08:42 AM




    I understand to remove the unit I release the 2 allen head screws on the front, the single one in the centre at the rear and then remove the strut bar running across the top of the unit. It is then removed out through the rear. 
    The amount of wires within this fairing is some seriously scary shit. 

    Ha Ha you should see a later model, my Street Glide has an accessory amp as well. Take your time
  • Rumpig_63
    Rumpig_63
    5 years ago
    check out Hog Lights he has some replacement stereos that retain all the controls