How to Understand and Use a 1987 GMC Truck Radio Wiring Diagram

Driving down the highway in your trusty old truck, you turn up the radio to enjoy your favorite tunes and then suddenly all sound disappears. You’ve likely just encountered a faulty radio wiring bridge, which can be especially daunting when you don’t have access to the wiring diagram for your GMC truck of a certain vintage. If you own a 1987 GMC truck, we’re here to help unravel the tricky web of connections with a comprehensive explanation of the wiring diagram.

What is a Wiring Diagram?

A wiring diagram is a visual representation of how components are connected within an electrical system. It consists of lines, symbols, labels and connectors that visualize actual connections such as power sources, grounds and switches as well as their respective circuits. Additionally, the diagram can also specify whereabouts on the vehicle the connections should be made.

GMC Trucks and Wiring Diagrams

GM trucks have quite a few components that are interconnected and rely on wiring diagrams to give a clear picture of how those components--and the diagrams’ expected connections--are meant to be used; these diagrams should be available for free with the truck’s purchase. On occasion, however, the diagrams may no longer be available or become misplaced over the years. It’s important to note that GMC trucks may be labeled differently from other models and even other GMC models, so it’s essential to consult the manual for labeling and to also reference specific wiring diagram for the exact model year.

1987 GMC Truck Radio Wiring Diagram

GMC trucks are typically outfitted with several different radios, including an audio system, an antenna, speakers and multiple power outlets. When troubleshooting any issues with the radion, it’s key to use the correct wiring diagram to ensure a smooth installation. That being said, below is a diagram specific to a 1987 GMC truck radio installation:

• ● Audio System:
  
  
  
  • Red/White – Right (Front) Speaker (+)
  
  
  • White & Black – Left (Front) Speaker (+)
  
  
  • Tan – Right (Rear) Speaker (+)
  
  
  • Gray & Black – Left (Rear) Speaker (+)
  
  
  • Yellow – Radio Harness at Amplifier
  
  
  
  


• ● Antenna:
  
  
  
  • Black/Light Green – Radio Chassis Ground
  
  
  • Dark Green – Right Front Speaker (-)
  
  
  • Light Green – Left Front Speaker (-)
  
  
  
  


• ● Speakers:
  
  
  
  • Red/White – Right Front Speaker (+)
  
  
  • White – Left Front Speaker (+)
  
  
  • Tan – Right Rear Speaker (+)
  
  
  • Gray – Left Rear Speaker (+)
  
  
  
  


• ● Power Outlets:
  
  
  
  • Light Green – Ignition Switch Harness
  
  
  • White – Accessory 12V+ (Accessory)
  
  
  • Brown – Accessory 12V+ (Power Outlet)
  
  
  • Brown/White – Ground (Power Outlet)
  
  
  
  

Installation Tips

When seeking to install a new radio in a 1987 GMC truck, here are a few tips to bear in mind:

• Have the necessary resources on hand . To ensure you have everything you need ready to go, make sure to have a wiring diagram of the respective model year and an installation kit. Moreover, it’s always best to double-check the required components and research specifics for the chosen model.


• Familiarize yourself with the setup. Before heading into the installation process, get an overview of the system, familiarizing oneself with the components and where they connect. Since installations will vary by equipment type, referring to the wiring diagram specific to the desired install is necessary.


• Connect the components correctly. It’s essential to ensure that all components are correctly wired and linked together. Keep a copy of the wiring diagram handy, cross referencing the connections with the vehicle’s corresponding wiring harness.


• Double check connections. After the connections have been made, it’s always best to test them out before closing up shop. This will ensure that all components are integrating correctly and verify that no wires were left disconnected.

Wrapping Up: Concluding the GMC Radio Wiring Process

Equipped with the wire colors and functions, wiring a 1987 GMC truck radio should be a much easier task. Hopefully, this article provided some insight into the process. Of course, it’s always best to feel confident in what you’re doing or enlist professional assistance if such is available. Happy wiring!

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