OK, this is about my third headunit install ever in my life, and the first
(for me) for this vehicle - 96 Explorer Sport.

Purchased a new cheap and cheerful Aiwa headunit (CDC-X437). Hooked up the
appropriate wires to a new adapter cable that plugs into the Ford grey
connector, including speaker connections. The unit doesn't activate at all.

I checked voltages, the 'memory' wire (always on) has 0V, so that's a
problem. The red ACC wire carries 12-14V when the ignition is turned on, so
that's fine.

I'm surprised that the unit didn't activate even without the memory wire
having power.

My problems are as follows:-

1) Why doesn't the memory wire (always on) on the Ford grey plug measure at
12V? Could there be a blown fuse - I have checked the usual suspects (fuse
panel and fuse on 12V lead on battery - all are fine).
2) Where can I find an always on 12V lead? Cigarette lighter comes to mind,
or running to the battery through the firewall.
3) Is this headunit working at all? I'd expect the memory wire just to keep
radio settings, and for the unit to function without this wire being
powered, but maybe I'm way off base.

My thoughts on how to proceed are as follows:-

1) Determine if the new headunit operates at all, which means getting hold
of a 12V wire (always on). Perhaps split the ACC wire, and supply 12V to the
memory wire (with ignition on). See if unit powers up. If it does determine
what 12V (always on) wire I can use? If it doesn't proceed with 2) below.

2) Contact AIWA, see if they could help me troubleshoot? Hmmn, don't know
whether that would work well.

Paul Scrutton