One of the most important aspects of customizing your vehicle is upgrading the audio system. The 96 Ford F150 is no exception to this rule. An upgraded sound system can make your ride better and more enjoyable. But, before you can install a new stereo, you need to know how to connect the wiring. In this article, we’ll cover a 96 Ford F150 radio wiring diagram and give you all the information you need to upgrade your audio system.
Understanding the Wiring Diagram
The first thing you need to understand is that not all Ford F150s have the same wiring. The wiring diagram for your truck may be different depending on the trim level and package options. In this article, we’ll focus on the 96 Ford F150 XLT package. This package has a factory-installed stereo system that includes a CD player, AM/FM radio, and cassette player.
Before we dive into the wiring diagram, it’s important to note that there are two types of wiring configurations: amplified and non-amplified. The wiring diagram we’ll be looking at is for a non-amplified system. If your truck has an amplified system, you’ll need to make some adjustments to the wiring.
Non-Amplified Wiring Diagram
| Wire Color | Function | Wire Location |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow | Battery | Constant 12V |
| Red | Accessory | Switched 12V |
| Black/Green | Ground | Ground |
| White/Green | Left Front Speaker (+) | Radio Harness |
| Gray/Black | Left Front Speaker (-) | Radio Harness |
| White/Red | Right Front Speaker (+) | Radio Harness |
| Gray/Yellow | Right Front Speaker (-) | Radio Harness |
| Black/White | Left Rear Speaker (+) | Radio Harness |
| Brown/Yellow | Left Rear Speaker (-) | Radio Harness |
| Black/Pink | Right Rear Speaker (+) | Radio Harness |
| Brown/White | Right Rear Speaker (-) | Radio Harness |
The above table is the non-amplified wiring diagram for the 96 Ford F150. This diagram tells you which wire color is for which function and where the wire is located. It’s important to note that the battery wire is always hot, even when the ignition is off. The accessory wire only becomes hot when the ignition is turned on. The ground wire should be secured to a clean, unpainted metal surface.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What if my F150 has an amplified system?
If your F150 has an amplified system, you’ll need to make some adjustments to the wiring. The basic wiring will be the same, but you’ll need to connect the amplifier to the stereo system. You may also need to run additional wires to power the amplifier.
2. What if I want to install a subwoofer?
If you want to install a subwoofer, you’ll need to add a separate amplifier and subwoofer to your system. The wiring for the subwoofer will be different than the wiring for the regular speakers. You’ll also need to find a location to mount the subwoofer and amplifier.
3. Can I use aftermarket wiring harnesses?
Yes, you can use aftermarket wiring harnesses to install a new stereo system. These harnesses are designed to match the factory wiring and make installation easier. They’re also compatible with most aftermarket stereos.
4. What tools do I need to install a new stereo system?
You’ll need a variety of tools to install a new stereo system, including a wire stripper, wire crimpers, screwdrivers, and pliers. You may also need additional tools depending on your specific installation, such as a drill or saw.
5. How long does it take to install a new stereo system?
The amount of time it takes to install a new stereo system will vary depending on your experience level and the complexity of the installation. On average, it takes about 2-4 hours to install a new stereo system.
