Expert: Peter G. Lee - 9/16/2006

Question
1  How to remove above theft proof unit from 1988 Chevrolet Astro Van ?

2  How to remove cassett tape stuck in unit?

Answer
Hi Bill.
Theft proof eh? no such thing but if it's the model I think it is do you have the security dark blue 'dongle' thingy to re-autherize it after disconnecting the power?

Remove the radio with the two metal prongs supplied with the unit by removing the facia and inserting one either side and pulling it out. Don't have the tools? pop into your local Radio shack or Kenwood dealer and get a pair or try ebay.

Removal of a stuck tape is more difficult.

If the tape comes up to the slot from the playing position but will not eject, you could try a little GENTLE persuasion with some tweezers or a thin wire hook, if it's not lifting and stays in the ‘playing’ position then the mechanism is stuck and once you have the unit out you will need to remove the small case screws and take the top off and play it by ear from there but NEVER use force, just 'assist' the mechanism to do what it should do normally. Once you have cleared the tape check the tape deck for springs loose, etc. you can remove the deck easily by removing 4 screws (one in each corner roughly) and gently pulling the ribbon tape connectors from the board.
All the best, Peter