Just thinking out load and wondering since quite a few radios share the same sort of motherboards etc, was wondering is it possible to swap out the front dial screen panels from one model to another?
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Front fascia interchangablity?
- Thread starter Limeybastard
- Start date
Yes, but you might have to change the channel select switch/PCB, or controls as the shaft style are not always the same, switches also must be considered.
Some examples:
TRC-427 vs. Cobra 21 LTD
Cobra 25 vs. Uniden PC66
29 NW WX vs. LTD/GTL
Grant-XL vs. Cobra 148
Cobra 21X vs. TRC-452
And the export bezels can be swapped sometimes also, like a Galaxy 33 vs. General Lee, the controls/switches do not always line up so be aware of that.
I try to avoid making hybrid or Frankenstein radios, but I did put a Cobra 25 LTD channel select and face bezel on my Uniden PC66 (old style), I liked the look better.
I also used Cobra 25 LTD lids on my TRC-427 (needed to after 4-pin conversion).
I tried to install a Galaxy 66V bezel on a Grant XL, let's say it was a hassle and didn't work in the end, If I really wanted that big s-meter I would have made it worked with a custom solution for the switches.
Above you'll see I am talking about mobile radios, and also note they are all mostly Uniden made radios..
I did try some lid swapping on a 142GTL base and a Cam-89 Base, they looked very similar, but not a real match. .
My point is the manufactures do not have an engineer re-invent the wheel, so an "off the shelf" solution is to use what's already been produced, and readily available. Unless it's a whole new beast that needs a new chassis designed.
That is why you'll see "sister radios" that may have 2 different names on the front, while having identical insides/chassis.
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That said I would not try to switch any of the RCI 2950/70/N2/N4 style faceplates to another brand. That would be an amazing amount of work for the abortion of a radio you would end up with.