Repair 7

The factory radio amp in a 1999 Jeep Cherokee Laredo provides extra power to the radio unit to drive the speakers at higher volume levels. In addition to powering the speakers at high volume levels, the amp makes the sound clearer at all volume levels. Occasionally, the amp can draw too much power, causing its integrated reset switch to trip. This switch is designed to prevent the amp from overheating and causing a fire or damaging its internal components. When this switch trips, it needs to be reset directly on the amp itself; there is no external or dash-mounted reset switch.

Instructions

1

Open the back seat door, and pull the release strap on the bottom of the rear seat.

2

Fold the rear seat cushion forward to expose the carpeting underneath.

3

Peel back the carpet under the left side of the seat to expose the amplifier.

4

Depress the reset switch on the front side of the amplifier, and then replace the carpet.

5

Fold the rear seat back down so the seat cushion locks into place. Test the radio to make sure that it functions properly.

Towing capability can be an added and often unexpected perk when it comes to vehicles. The 2003 Chevy Astro was a mini van that came in both passenger and cargo versions, and both models came with a factory hitch and respectable towing capacity. The Astro van served well at towing a utility trailer for work tasks or a boat for weekend family adventures. While mini vans were big sellers in the late 1980s and early 1990s, they became less so with the introduction of the SUV.

Cargo Van Towing Capacity

Although the Astro cargo van has only the front two seats, its engine provides more capacity than the passenger van. The cargo van is available in a two-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive version. The two-wheel-drive cargo van has a towing capacity of 5,800 pounds, and the all-wheel-drive is capable of towing 5,600 pounds.

Passenger Van Towing Capacity

The Astro passenger van has more available seating, but the tow capacity is less than the cargo. The two-wheel-drive passenger van has a towing capacity of 5,400 pounds, while all-wheel-drive passenger version is capable of pulling 5,100 pounds.

Tongue Weight

Both the cargo and passenger versions of the Astro can have a safe tongue weight of 500 pounds. It is possible to gain an additional 10 to 15 percent of capacity and tongue weight by installing an aftermarket hitch assembly known as a weight-distributing hitch.

Safety

Whenever a vehicle is towing something behind it, safety is a priority. Make sure all lights are in working order, and have someone help to check turn signals, brake lights and reverse lights. It is never advisable to go over the speed limit with a trailer. Take care through corners, and avoid sudden directional changes. Braking will require more time and distance than without something in tow, so plan your stops accordingly.

Replacing a faulty stereo and upgrading to an aftermarket unit are among the most popular reasons why Toyota 4Runner owners choose to remove the factory-installed stereo. Although Toyota manufactures very reliable stereo equipment, problems do happen from time to time. The most common problems that occur with the factory stereo are static feedback and intermittent radio button operation or failure. Because the factory radio is not serviceable while inside the vehicle, it must be removed in order to be repaired or replaced with another unit.

Instructions

Removal

1

Disconnect the negative battery lead with a battery wrench. Lift up the center console cover and insert a flat-head screwdriver in between the edge of the parking brake/cup holder panel and the outer console.

2

Pry around the outside of the parking brake/cup holder panel with the flat-head screwdriver in order to disengage its retaining clips. Remove the parking brake/cup holder panel and set it aside.

3

Insert a flat-head screwdriver in between the shifter console panel and the center console and pry around the circumference of the shifter console panel. Remove the shifter console panel.

4

Pry around the circumference of the center cluster finish panel with a flat-head screwdriver to disengage the locking clips. Grip the center cluster finish panel with two hands and pull it toward you to separate it. Disconnect the center cluster finish panels electrical connectors and remove the panel.

5

Remove the screws holding the radio to the center of the dashboard and pull the radio out of its slot. Disconnect the radios electrical connectors and remove the radio from the vehicle.

Installation

6

Reconnect the radios electrical connectors and slide it into its mounting slot. Reinstall the radios retaining screws.

7

Reconnect the center cluster finish panels electrical connectors and set it into position. Press down on the edges of the panel until it snaps into place.

8

Set the shifter console panel into position over the shifter and press it into place until the locking clips engage.

9

Set the parking brake/cup holder panel into position and press it down until it locks into place.

10

Close the center console compartment lid, reconnect the battery cable and test the radio.