[asarkisi]

My 'Bird came factory-equipped with an AM/FM radio with front dash (center) and rear seat (center) speakers. As the sound quality from the present system is showing its age, I'd like to upgrade the system. My initial thought is to get a new AM/FM stereo head unit, but it must fit within the existing radio's space in the dash (e.g., Custom Auto Sound), abandon the front dash speaker, install door speakers in the same location as found in the 1966 model, and convert the rear center speaker to a sub-woofer. I don't care about having cassette or CD capability, but the ability to discretely plug-in a portable MP3/iPod would be nice. Questions:

1. Does the 1964 door sheet metal have provisions for speakers to be mounted in the lower front corners? If so, what size works? Are there any special considerations for wiring these speakers?
2. Does anyone know of a sub woofer that can fit in the rear trim where the present rear center speak is located? In know the rear center speaker is a 5"x7" size. I am not afraid to make my own mounting bracket and baffle, but I would like to re-use the existing mounting studs/wing-nuts.
3. I do not like having to fit the car cover over the fixed mast antenna. Any recommendations or cautions about switching to a power antenna?
4. I recall reading somewhere to be careful about the vintage of a Custom Auto Sound radio. Which should I avoid? Which are good?

Thanks much.

By the way, I have succcessfully repaired my rear quarter windows. I replaced the power motor gears (parts from Mac's). It wasn't wasy to re-assemble, but it was rewarding to knock a task off the punch list. But as I had to remove the rear seat to gain access to the quarter window modules, that old center speaker was whispering "now is a good time to upgrade the stereo and replace me!"