New to forum. Need some help from experts.
The original ETR radio in my 1985 Eldo (actual 15,000 miles) just stopped working. Seemed fine a couple of days ago but when I started car up yesterday the radio failed to come on when I pressed power button. The auto antenna also did not extend. I could hear some noise in the speakers from the radio, but no audio of any kind and no in-dash light for radio itself. Clock works fine. I found the furshlinging fuse box under the dash where you have to be a contortionist and a very slim guy to undo all the screws and clips - found two fuses related to the antenna motor and pulled each in turn, both look fine.
Any ideas from any of you more knowledgeable folks would be deeply appreciated.
MacDuff

 

Hi
Sounds like a very young '85 there. I owned an 84 Eldo and mine was a Bose factory equipped but owner modified to Pioneer CD. That didn't bode well due to the Bose amped speakers still in line on rear deck. I've owned several GMs and am still slightly confused on the wiring for Vacuum flourescent displays, which run thru the radio memory connect.
I have a replacement Delco factory radio with a faulty on/off switch. If you have some sign of life, try pressing that button slowly and holding it mid way if you can get power. If thats the case, that switch is bad. Typically they lock when pressed, but physically come out a small bit.
The 10amp fuse controls the full radio, on left side of dash. My memory is not that great on my 1984 anymore, but I kept my service manual when I sold it.
Bill

 

Hiya Cadman -
Thanks for helpful advice. I'm going to do a couple of things. First, as you suggest, check all aftermarket and other cheaper sources for replacement radio. Second, find and buy a repair manual for this "new" old 85 Eldo. Third, try like hell not to have to open up that fuse holder under the dashboard again (what a bum job). Fourth, keep coming back to this great forum for help as I go along.

This 85 is the classic story - you know, the little old lady from Pasadena, only this one was from a different part of CA. She bought car new, drove for about 14 months, put 14,000 miles on it, got ill, put it in temp/humidity controlled warehouse storage, left it there for about 17 years, passed away and willed car to a nephew who, in turn, sold it to me. I drove it back from POS to Southern Virginia (1100 mi) without a single hitch. Had new tires put on before leaving for home since I didn't trust any that had not gone around in all that time. Still have original tires, look almost like new. Everything else good to go with exception, understandably, of gas in tank gelled, had it drained and cleaned, new pump, filter etc., new battery. All hose lines, other tubulars excellent condition. Have won two first place prizes in recent car shows in Virginia area since purchase. Having a great time with this new old 85 Eldo.

BTW, read your new post on re-joining the forum. Good going. Of course, I have you beat by a hell of a long way in the age department. But, all things considered, you have greater knowledge about things automotive than I think I will ever have. Thanks again,
MacDuff

 

Well, oddly enough, I gave up my 84 because I est. repairs on both and a new loan as too much, but in hindsight, those cars have never lost collector interest and still tend to go for the same prices. They are fantastic classic looking cars, that at the time shared the interest in the mid 70s downsized Seville. while the large Cadillacs certainly have what makes them great American road cars, the downsized Seville was a success, but still lacked the features the Eldorado of 79 brought over from the large cars, style wise. The only real fault is suspension and drivetrain, as some still call these 'land yachts'.

I may be your non typical Cadillac fan, but I love the comfort and looks that sum up what makes them attractive to me. A few younger guys also like the 'pimp' factor, but it can detract from the original formal beauty of the stock cars. I do feel adding custom touches can be handled deftly. I'm not too aware of these cars winning awards in car shows so that sounds great to me!

The HT4100 powerplant requires removing multiple belts, unlike the later 80s ones like my '88 4.5 V8 with 155HP stock. Still, I'd like to up that to Allante like performance as most cars on the road offer 200HP or more (at least it's more typical for get up and go power needed on crowded freeways) The downside of these 70/80s cars is how they handle cloverleaf freeway exits, etc. Sharp turns really lean that car! haha
Bill