The antenna in the 300CD doesn't go all the way up, I'll fix that sometime. Maybe thats part of my problem. The original becker doesn't pickup many stations, its hit or miss if it hits NPR (the strongest signal around). I've read that although some people hate these radios, they are rebuildable, but also replaceable.
How much could I get for a "rebuildable" Becker, maybe in the parts section of this site or maybe ebay. If it was more than $40, it would help pay for the new CD player/XM satellite radio.
Or how much generally might it cost to have it rebuilt and just use with a tuner on my CD player.
I guess I'm leaning toward a whole new radio, although my mind might change when I see all the bling available... just might not fit in with the beautiful wood.
Oh, and I tried to find this info and did at least find that I should bypass the fader. I can use the switch place for something else anyway. I'll keep reading to find out if I can do the switch out myself (although car electronics is my weakest point), or just have someone else do it.
Thanks guys.

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1985 300D, 237k.
1994 F-350, 6.9 diesel, 5 spd manual, Banks Turbo. 261k.
Sold: 1985 300CD- 267K