The C4 Corvette Delco Bose Gold Stereo System of the 90's

[@gillesst-pierre5705]

I love the Bose system in my 93 and when a component failed I always replace it with original part. Great review as usual. Thank you.

[@VetteSource]

Agreed, some of the components can be a little tougher to source, but I always prefer the period correct sound system unless it's a customized build.

[@seansylvester8476]

HI I just recently purchased a 1992 convertible. the left front speaker is not working and the right front is squealing. I am confident that the right front is the amplifier. The left front I have not checked as of yet. I may need the whole assembly. I can change them out myself and really want to keep the original Bose Gold but I am having trouble finding the parts. Any suggestions?

[@VetteSource]

Hey Sean, your assessment is most likely correct. The amplifiers are usually the cause of the squealing feedback you hear through the speakers. I have some speaker assemblies in inventory. You can reach me through DM on FB or IG @VetteSource.

[@SB4me]

I can’t believe that people would allow a ZR-1 to be trashed like that one. Thanks for another informative video.

[@VetteSource]

Hey CT, It is a shame, but there's an interesting backstory to this car that I'll detail once I get started on the reassembly. Hopefully in the next 3 to 6 month time I'll be able to find the time to bring Lazarus back.

[@SB4me]

@@VetteSource I can’t wait to hear and see more. Awesome videos and information. Thank you.

[@ericb5380]

I know some details. Wild backstory!

[@VetteSource]

Hey Eric, did you know about it before its disassembly, or during? I still don't have much information prior to around 2008, but as far as I know it's been in Texas since new.

[@ericb562]

Just what you and I had discussed previously on the ZR1. Sad.

[@johntrishstrange7378]

Brian, your videos are very good and I like the detail and information you put in them. I have an 85 4+3 that needs the OD TV cable replaced. Is there any way you could make a video on that?

[@VetteSource]

Sure, I'll put it on my schedule👍

[@johntrishstrange7378]

@@VetteSource thank you!

[@Fernandoffr4100]

"You've never heard anything like this before. An availabe delco bose stereo with 4 never before speakers, separately engineered for sound outta of this world"

[@VetteSource]

Cool tag line. Which Bose advertising campaign was that from?

[@topJimmyP1984]

Cool, thanks for posting. I have a 1990 with the Bose Gold Series, no CD player, just cassette. Back in the day I had to have the head unit repaired a couple times, don't remember the issues but since I believe I'm only getting power to the front speakers, possibly rear are shot. I'm going to look into getting them rebuilt as I would like to keep the original stereo and appearance because when it does work it sounds great in my opinion.

[@VetteSource]

Hey Jimmy, glad you enjoyed it. Like you, I find the performance of the factory system to be quite good, and only advocate swapping it out in limited situations.

[@ryanmcguire9335]

I recently replaced a front Bose speaker in my 92 Coupe with a new old stock speaker that was for a convertible. It was plug and play and sounds great. I've heard the convertible speakers have a more powerful amp but mine sound perfect so who knows.

[@VetteSource]

Yea, it's a question for the ages. Somebody mentioned the way the sound is directed on a convertible speaker is different, which make sense since Bose was all about directing the sound for an optimum listening environment.

[@bbay1977]

The "tubes" you were talking about arr called ports. They work pretty much like a port on a subwoofer box most people install in the trunks. They direct the sound waves in a certain direction. Most subwoofer enclosures directs them just straight out. I guess there was a good reason they directed them in a different way.

[@VetteSource]

James, thanks for clarifying, that makes total sense👍. When reading up on the history of Bose before making this video, I discovered that they were obsessed with the perception of sound quality from their speakers, and part of that was accomplished by redirecting the sound onto adjacent areas and not directly at the listener. Funny thing is that the first generation of this speaker from 84-89 has a more closed off enclosure than the later ones from 91-96.

[@ddmacy]

It is my understanding that the acoustics in the convertible were different than the coupe so Bose designed the amps with different Caps for the crossover network to change the highs and lows from the coupe to the convertibles. All the amps are interchangeable but it should not be done because they were different front to rear and coupe to convertible . I have even heard of swapping the amps out from a different car line. But they wont sound the same as the original. You can replace the caps that fail in the amps yourself if you are courageous. I have done it with excellent results.

[@VetteSource]

Excellent information! Thanks for sharing with everyone. That's what I was looking for👍.

[@rtkracht]

Ideas for future videos: I’m a long time C3 owner thinking about doing an engine swap. I’d like your opinion on options… LS, stroker, big block, etc.

[@VetteSource]

Hey Rusty, the LS is definitely a popular choice for ease of engine assembly and power output. I personally prefer BB power myself, but it's a tough sell due to increased cabin temperature and different handling characteristics of the car after installed. A good compromise is a 400 SB. It can be stroked out all the way to 422 CID, has plenty of power and will accept all the power adding upgrades you want to throw at it. Of course if cost is not an issue, you can also go with a Dart 427 engine kit. I see them for around $5K online frequently, and are a good option for power and reliability.

[@markstrainstation]

Great video. I’m original owner of 1990 C4. Did you miss speak by saying the receiver is under the 91-96 or should it be 90-96 under passenger side dash? I think that’s were 90s are too. Back in 1991 I had a Alpine 5 Disc CD changer installed. I don’t know if they connect it to the controller unit or receiver.

[@VetteSource]

Hey Mark, glad you enjoyed it. You're correct, I meant to say 90-93 will be located under the passenger side dash above the lock panel and is fairly difficult to access. In 1994, they relocated it to the passenger rear storage compartment in front of the jack and is much easier to access. Most of the time, they connect the aftermarket head units to the receiver in the dash.

[@brianr1036]

My 93 has it in the rear storage cubby. No idea if that's factory or not, it's been in someone else's hands for 30 years

[@VetteSource]

It's possible that quite a few undocumented modifications can be made over 30 years😁.

[@DJones476]

Hey, Brian, Buddy! I was wondering if you could discuss the good 'ole ZR40 and GS-C Goodyear tires for the C4 at some point. Apparently, those tires are sorely missed on many Corvette forums, one person even saying (of the GS-C), "Alas, all good things come to an end". How were they in rain? How were they in the corners, etc.? Many thanks in advance, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!🎆🎆🎆

[@VetteSource]

D, excellent suggestion👍. I'll put the topic on my video to do list. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you as well.

[@BSHEP1741]

Hey there! Love your channel and all your videos, they’re always informing. I have a 1990 with the delco gold system in it and I’m having a lot of trouble with it. I recently took the radio out to do some tuning up and cleaning and when I put it back in the security system enabled. I dug into the service manual and found out how to get the factory code to unlock the system by holding down the cassette buttons but putting in said code still does nothing. I’m wondering if someone changed the code previously and if I could do something to find it? Thanks!

[@VetteSource]

Hey Brendan, glad your enjoying the channel, thanks for the kind words👍. That security lockout on the Delco/Bose radios is no fun to deal with. Most of the time when they enter a "hard lock" mode, you end up having to take them to a radio shop to have it disabled. However there may be a secret path I am misremembering. Let me check my sources and see if there's any bypass available for you.

[@oswaldpino1038]

Thank you great video great information

[@VetteSource]

Hey Oswald, thanks. Glad you enjoyed it👍.

[@delcorick9967]

I'm doing something a little weird an obviously different,,, 5yrs ago I found in a junkyard a 86 buick electra fwd with the bose radio still in it with the speakers and i removed the radio and rear speakers, front speakers were built into the doors and just wasn't worth the hassle so I just pulled the radio an rear speakers, tested it at home and the amps were bad ( static noise, some squealing ) and radio display was no good, radio didn't matter 2 much 2 me but the rear speakers I wanted to get working,, I disconnected the amps an re-wired the speakers in their enclosures to a factory amp out of 05 impala, the bose speakers are 2ohm of this year (86) and I believe they handle 35watts each and were running off 25watts each from the bose amps,. was originally 100watt x4 rms in 86.. the 05 impala amp is a 2ohm speaker amp an I'm actually using this at home., sounds damn good! I'm using a 94 cadillac deville cassette radio w 5 band eq and I've added aux input to it in the face next to cassette door and I play it thru the impala amp

[@VetteSource]

Not a bad idea. It just shows there's more than one way to skin a cat😁. Thanks for sharing👍.

[@randybills3848]

hey Brian I would like to see a detailed video of getting the center console plastic (AKA) shifter plate cig lighter and all of that out Im getting ready to do that parts are here just have not done it yet THANKS have a goodin oh yeah mine is a 95

[@VetteSource]

Randy, no problem. I think I can put one of those together rather quickly for you👍.

[@randybills3848]

@@VetteSource that would be cool just to kinda get guide on getting it all out without breakin stuff thanks ill be watchin

[@gordonbeukema7235]

Make that 2 of us, thanks

[@DFisk75]

I don't know if you read old video comments but I also would like to see a video on this. My 95 had sticky dash and the previous owner replaced it and the finish doesn't match.

[@VetteSource]

Yep, sure do. I should have something pit together soon for dash bezel removal shortly.

[@rushtk2112]

I am getting a virgin 92 with gold system. I am going to figure out a way to put a bluetooth amp in so I can keep the stereo. I will replace everything with components. Will keep the Bose system for later resale.

[@VetteSource]

Nice, sounds like a solid plan👍. Just make sure you if you're hiring out for the install they absolutely know not to cut ANY wires to the original system. Its more difficult to put that stuff back together if they cut and/or damage wires and connectors.

[@rushtk2112]

@@VetteSource thank you

[@VetteSource]

No problem👍

[@gillesst-pierre5705]

I am in need for a left front speaker,amp for my 93 Gold system let me know if you can help. Thanks.

[@VetteSource]

Sure, I have one available. You can send me a DM through my business page @VetteSource via FB or IG.

[@BrianKoz]

I got a 94 C4 Corvette I am looking for speakers for it I need a rear right speaker and I left front speaker with the amp I like to buy the whole assembly where do I go to find it

[@VetteSource]

Brian, I have some sets available for sale. You can reach me by DM @VetteSource on FB or IG. My contact # is also on my business page here - Facebook.com/vettesource

[@joburgoof9404]

What book are you referring to throughout this, it looks really comprehensive

[@VetteSource]

Joburg, that is the Factory Service Manual that the dealer technicians used when working on the cars. They can be found in the resell market on ebay, Amazon, and even swap meets.

[@spanky3101]

So, ive got an issue with my 96. I have the Bose gold with CD. If i switch it on it powers up yet there's no sound. Radio or CD, the both look to be working, the CD plays, i can change tracks etc but theres no sound. Same for the radio, i can swap stations but never any sound. Also, the antenna doesnt work. Are these things connected? Can you point me in the right direction of where to start please.

[@VetteSource]

Hey Andy, off the top of my head it sounds like you have a problem with the radio receiver, which is that smaller rectangular box I detailed in the video. In your case, it's very easy to access in the passenger rear storage compartment next to the jack. I would recommend pulling it out and taking it to a local radio repair shop to test it for you. Let me know how it turns out👍.

[@robertconrad7528]

Andy, the service manual says to test the relay (located near the steering column. If there's power to it, its probably bad. If it's working, check the LH curtesy fuse. Also check the ground that i think is next to the door near where the wiring harness goes through the driver door. I'm just starting the same checks myself.. my LH curtesy fuse is good and I'll be checking the relay tomorrow i hope... good luck..

[@VetteSource]

Hey Robert, thanks for chiming in with the service manual information👍

[@chriskowalski7038]

Had my stock Bose system totally refurbished in my 93 c4...$700..

[@VetteSource]

That's not too bad. Probably cheaper than buying all new aftermarket to replace it👍.

[@chriskowalski7038]

@@VetteSourceI try to keep the car completely original...93 c4...50 000 miles

[@VetteSource]

Yep, good thing for use is they made so many C4's and they're still quite popular, so parts aren't insanely hard to find.

[@jeffisaacson1941]

Wow,id like to no how and where you hot them refurbished

[@fastshelby5226]

I have a 1993 Anniversary ZR1 corvette that I paid $3800 for, that was sitting behind a building, close to the Pacific Ocean, that is in neglected condition! The stereo doesn't work, and I suspect the CDM. I can see some water/corrosion damage.

[@VetteSource]

Sounds like a good score. The CDM would be my first thought since the car was exposed to that salt air for many years. Of course, the other electronic components may also have suffered the same fate.

[@alvinsautos7527]

Well done. Who would you recommend to either repair or buy new Gold Bose components from?

[@VetteSource]

The supply of new components has pretty much dried up, so your best bet is to look around for a Delco or Bose radio/stereo repair shop in your area. Depending on where you live, there may be one close enough that you can just drop it off in person. Most of these operations tend to be smaller individual operators, so you'll be dealing direct with the owner/operator in most cases.

[@tylerroche2031]

Should I expect issues if I decide to change out just the head unit to go for a more modern one? I was looking to install the Kenwood 6.2" system if possible.

[@VetteSource]

Hey Tyler, you should be ok with just a head unit swap. I would however recommend buying the adaptor harness so you don't have to cut the original factory plugs as they are pretty hard to source if you ever needed to reinstall the OEM head unit.

[@tylerroche2031]

@@VetteSource That's good to hear! Definitely like the idea of a more modern look with a touch screen. Is this adapter harness easy to get/find?

[@VetteSource]

I believe they still sell them for the older cars. Worst case scenario would be to build one with extra connectors and wiring. Let me know if you have any redouble and I might be able to point you in the right direction.

[@tylerroche2031]

@@VetteSource Great, sounds good. I'm picking the car up next week ('95) so I'm sure I'll have more questions once I get into it. I'll be subbing to your page for sure!

[@VetteSource]

Thanks Tyler, have a great weekend👍.

[@dukeman7595]

Question: Will a later model rear bumper fit on a 1989 c-4? I'm wanting to switch the bumper with the better looking later c-4s. Will it work and what modifications would need to done, if any? Thank you for your consideration..

[@VetteSource]

Hey Dalton, it can be done. If you take a look at this video of an 86 Pace Car I had a while back, you can see they updated the entire body to look like a 91-96 kzbin.info/www/bejne/pHjcqqWPqsyom9E Quite a few pieces need to be changed however, including the bumper assemblies, inner structures, wheelwells, and assorted mount brackets and belt line moldings for the entire car if going with the painted style.

[@alvinsautos7527]

Also any thoughts on where to find a good armrest cover for a 90?

[@VetteSource]

I may have one in stock. I'll take a look today.

[@alvinsautos7527]

@@VetteSource I still need to diagnose where the trouble specifically is originating from...the receiver and/or the speakers, etc. I'm getting power/sound but there's static.

[@VetteSource]

I gotcha, that why I mentioned the receiver because your radio control unit is doing what it's supposed to do. However, if you have sound but with static you most likely have a speaker amplifier problem. Try isolating each speaker with the fade and balance knobs and you should be able to tell which speaker is producing static.

[@loiswhipkey8840]

My C4 volume control won’t turn up.. plays really low.. how can I fix it?

[@VetteSource]

Hey Lois, sounds like you may have a problem with the radio receiver unit which is located under the RH dash kick panel on the 90-93 cars, and behind the passenger seat in the storage compartment on the 94-96 cars. When this unit goes bad, low or no volume output is one of the main symptoms. Let me know if you need any more information.

[@loiswhipkey8840]

@@VetteSource I will try replacing that first

[@VetteSource]

Sounds good, let me know how it turns out👍

[@VanPelt79]

I have a 92 black convertible

[@VetteSource]

Nice, I have one lurking around here as well.

[@destruxandexploze2552]

What the heck? The rear fender is all chewed up like it rusted out. But I thought the body was fiberglass! What happened?

[@VetteSource]

You talking about the car I had the speaker on top of? That's a Mercedes and made of steel.

[@destruxandexploze2552]

@@VetteSource I apologize, they looked similar to me. I’m still getting used to my C4 and recognizing it around the streets and such.

[@VetteSource]

😁, no problem, it's easy to misidentify cars when your looking at a small cross section. You'll enjoy your C4 immensely, they're great cars.

[@destruxandexploze2552]

@@VetteSource Especially with a 396 stroker

[@VetteSource]

For sure, no replacement for displacement😄.

[@BatesRacing]

My 95 is a base model, and I dont think its the bose system... 🤔 regardless, something in the system is totally shot so I will be upgrading and modernizing. I like modern amenities in my classic car! #restomod lol

[@VetteSource]

Perfectly understandable. I think if I had a base care with the standard Delco system I would so the same. The difference between the standard radio and the Bose Gold is night and day.

[@thatguy3468]

Bose = Blows Only system that fails by just sitting in a garage. And not cheap to repair.

[@VetteSource]

Sure sounds good when it is working, though😁.

[@thatguy3468]

@@VetteSource “when it’s working” That’s key 😂

[@VetteSource]

Definitely.