Your factory AM radio sounds like a drive-thru speaker. The Custom Autosound USA-1 looks factory but has Bluetooth, USB, aux input, and enough power to drive modern speakers.
It looks like a 1960s radio. The knobs, chrome bezels, and dial face are period-correct. But behind the faceplate is a modern head unit with Bluetooth and 300 watts of power.
The USA-1 radio, wiring harness, mounting bracket, antenna adapter, and instruction manual. You supply the speakers and install labor.
Head unit: [Custom Autosound USA-1 for 1965-66 Mustang (DVC-65-66)](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MQYLXRZ?tag=rusttoroad-20)
Disconnect the battery. Remove the radio knobs (they pull straight off). Unscrew the bezel. Reach behind the dash and unplug the antenna and power wires. Unbolt the radio and pull it out.
The USA-1 drops into the factory opening. It uses the same mounting holes. Bolt it in using the supplied bracket. Plug in the antenna adapter and power harness.
The USA-1 harness has color-coded wires:
- Yellow: Switched 12V (ignition) - Red: Constant 12V (battery) - Black: Ground - Purple/Green: Front speakers - Gray/White: Rear speakers
Route the speaker wires to the door panels (front) and rear deck (rear). Connect to your speakers.
The factory speakers are 4x10 ovals with paper cones. They sound terrible. Replace them with modern 6.5" coaxials using adapter plates.
Front speakers: [Kicker 6.5" Coaxial Speakers (43CSC654)](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0081SWLPS?tag=rusttoroad-20)
Speaker adapters: [6.5" to 4x10 Adapter Plates for Mustang](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N3ZZRFU?tag=rusttoroad-20)
If your Mustang has a rear seat, install speakers in the rear deck. Cut 6.5" holes using a hole saw. Mount the speakers from underneath using the supplied brackets.
Rear speakers: [Kicker 6.5" Coaxial Speakers (43CSC654)](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0081SWLPS?tag=rusttoroad-20)
Turn the key to ON. Press the "Source" button on the radio until Bluetooth mode is selected. Open your phone's Bluetooth settings and connect to "USA-1". Play music. Adjust the equalizer using the radio's menu.
The USA-1 has RCA pre-outs if you want to add an amplifier. Run RCA cables from the back of the radio to an amp mounted under the seat or in the trunk.
Compact amplifier: [Kicker 46CXA400.1 400W Amp](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00M68QQC8?tag=rusttoroad-20)
- USA-1 head unit: ~$400 - Front speakers (pair): ~$80 - Rear speakers (pair): ~$80 - Speaker adapters: ~$30 - Wiring supplies: ~$25
Total: $615 in parts. Modern sound in a classic package.
No sound from speakers: Check speaker polarity. Positive wire (purple/gray) goes to positive terminal, negative (purple stripe/gray stripe) goes to negative. If reversed, the speakers cancel each other out.
Radio won't power on: Check the yellow wire (switched 12V). It must have power when the key is in the "run" position. Test with a multimeter.
Bluetooth won't pair: Make sure the radio is in Bluetooth mode (press Source). Delete all paired devices from your phone and try again.
This is a simple install with a huge payoff. Your Mustang will sound like a modern car while looking factory-correct. Passengers won't know it's aftermarket until you stream Spotify from your phone.
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