• DIN removal tools fit into the holes on either side of the radio face.autoradio 2 image by Nathalie P from Fotolia.com
  
  Ford Motor Company uses a consistent design for the stereo systems in its line of cars, trucks and SUVs. This system makes stereo removal a simplified task yet requires that specialized tools be used for stereo removal. Other than for the purpose of extracting the factory-installed stereo deck, there are other tools required for the overall procedure of replacing the stereo in a Ford.
  
  

10 Millimeter Wrench

• The first step in removing a factory-installed stereo in a Ford vehicle is disconnecting the negative battery cable from the battery. A 10 mm wrench can loosen the bolt that holds the clamp of the negative battery cable onto the lead post of the negative battery terminal. The negative battery cable (also called the grounding cable) connects the negative terminal of the vehicle's battery with the frame or chassis to ground the electrical system. No electrical component should be connected or disconnected from a vehicle's electrical system while the grounding cable is connected.
  
  

Ford DIN Removal Tools

• Ford vehicles have factory-installed stereos which require Ford DIN removal tools to extract them from the dashboard. The Ford DIN removal tools are two rigid wire keys, bent into the shape of the letter "U," that are inserted into the DIN tool receiving holes on either side of the stereo's face. To remove a Ford stereo, insert the DIN removal tools into the holes at either side of the stereo then pull outward on the tools while pulling the stereo from the dashboard. DIN removal tools can be purchased at a Ford dealership, an auto parts store or car audio outlets.
  
  

Substitute Tools.

• If you need to remove the factory-installed stereo in a Ford and you don't have a 10 mm wrench or Ford DIN removal tools, you can improvise with other instruments. In a pinch, the two corners of a wire hanger can be used as replacements for DIN removal tools. Cut the hanger 4 inches from the corner, on both sides of the angle, to create an adequate substitute. To disconnect the negative battery cable from the negative battery terminal, you can use an adjustable wrench or pliers to loosen the bolt on the grounding cable's clamp.