Radio & cassette work but there is a his coming from the right channel that goes away shortly after startup - then no sound comes from the right channel.

Speakers or head unit? Where should I start?

 

Best way to check imo would be to hook up a different speaker to rule that out along with the wiring to it. But the combination of the hissing and then going out (as the unit heats up) makes me think it's the head unit. Older radio/head units can develop problems with cold solder joints (where the solder cracks etc.), aging electrolytic capacitors, and sometimes the output transistors go bad especially if they short to ground.
You can re-flow the solder to address cold solder joints, and the capacitors can be replaced if you're handy with a soldering iron.

 

I had this exact problem. It was the head unit. I was quoted $250 to fix it, so I just replaced it with an aftermarket.

 

**** that's what I was afraid of. I'll pull it to see if it's basic wiring, but then likely send it out.

Any recommended shops?

 

Not sure which head unit you have, but if you want to keep the stock radio, consider a refurb. I've never used this company, but I know people who have and were satisfied.

http://oem-auto-accessory.com/

 

TGO member *84TA does repair work at a very reasonable price.

 

 

I just sent him a PM - thanks for the tip.

Also solves the problem of getting an AUX jack - he can do it at the same time.

 

Swapped PM's with Matt & the radio is boxed up & will go out tomorrow via priority mail.

Very excited!

 

Let us know how it works out. I have always had the intention of using him for my radio, but then something else, of more priority, always comes up.

 

Just a quick follow-up & sorry it took so long.

Matt did a fantastic job with my radio - repair was flawless, added the pigtail switched aux jack for me and even though he didn't have the time to get it done & ship it back to me, he did get it done for the show I had in town and I got to pick it up & install it at his house!

Thanks again Matt for all of your help and for making my deadline!