WTB 8-Track Radio

[Birdofprey]

The 86 has the base AM-FM. I was thinking since I'm changing it I'd like to see if I can find a factory 8-Track deck.

From looking at brochures, it looks like 84 was the first year the 8-Track wasn't shown or mentioned as an option.








Anyone have one they'd part with?


Thanks.

[gadget73]

You'd need the proper trim panel for it. I know the old 2 shaft models were taller than the later base / cassette radio. I've never seen one of the electronic 8 tracks in a Ford. The ones in Lincolns are fairly massive though. All Towncars actually have an adapter plate under the trim to convert from the 8 track stereo cutout to a standard single DIN size radio.

[Birdofprey]

Thanks for the info. Both those photos are from the Ford CV brochures. But yeah I could see the Merc buyer being more willing to spend the $$ on the electronic stereo upgrades.

[knucklehead0202]

You would be my friggin' hero if you put an 8-track in your car. That is badass.

[Mainemantom]

I remember the electronic am/fm/8 track in a Crown Vic. new. That was the most expensive stereo available from Ford. About $500. My Lincoln Versailles had one and sounded very good. I think that was standard on that car.
The prices of a good used 8 tracks are pretty high now. Even untested junk is selling high. In my opinion, you would be better off with a stock am/fm stereo. Make sure it has the orange lighted dot on the right side of the dial. Mono radios were also available. Some people like them, I don't.
I will check my stock, If I have a 8 track, I will let you know.

[Birdofprey]

Thanks Tom!

[Birdofprey]

My Lincoln Versailles had one and sounded very good. I think that was standard on that car.

I just realized Versailles I saw at the JY before Christmas probably had one, I didn’t think to look at stereos then.

[Mainemantom]

I just realized Versailles I saw at the JY before Christmas probably had one, I didn’t think to look at stereos then.

Go check it out. It more than likely is in good shape. If you are into Ebay, there is a market for those Versailles parts in excellent condition. I can tell you what parts are in demand.
You need to buy them right, like half price sale at the jy though.

[Birdofprey]

Unfortunately that row was crushed in January.

[Mainemantom]

Birdofprey, I checked my stock and I do not have any 8 tracks anymore. I have a bunch of others which I will list in the for sale section.

[Birdofprey]

Thank you for looking.

[Birdofprey]

I picked up a 2 post one like this. The digital quadrasonic one is neat looking but with having the analog clock I think the 2 post one will match the look a little better. Plus I know I finding the correct bezel for the 2 post will be 1000% easier than finding the special one for the tall Quadrasonic 8-Track and in the CV wood grain pattern.




Tom, you're right about how nuts the price is for untested ones.

[Mainemantom]

Make sure the channel selector buttons work smoothly. They get stuck or when pushed in the dial does not move. That would mean having it cleaned or refurbished. More $$.
Is the one you got a genuine Ford labeled unit ? Many of these were sold as dealer add ons and made by different makers. Some Motorola (same as the Ford unit) or SAS or ? Whatever the dealer could make the most money on. I remember the displays on the show room floor.
Are the knobs nice with the chrome not flaking off ?

[Birdofprey]

I got this one, I’m sure it’s a dealer one. I don’t think it’s as old as the seller thought (which is good)

The fact he included a testing video is what sold me on it. So many $150-$250 stereos on there that say “untested as is” forget that.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Factory-Ford-AM-FM-Stereo-8-Track-Player-60-039-s-70-039-s-Lincoln-Mercury-Test-Video-NR-/372236615270

[Mainemantom]

A Clarion. Made is Japan is good.Those are 1970s connectors.Radio is about 1973 vintage. Pricey however you know it works well.