I just replaced the OEM stereo in my 2003 Jeep Wrangler X with an aftermarket Alpine. Everything went smoothly according Crutchfield’s instructions except for two surprises:
1) The Alpine CDA-117 would not fit all the way in, because the bracket for the OEM head unit was blocking it’s progress. It takes two bolts to pull it out:
2) The antenna wire that goes into the back of the factory head unit is non-standard. Adapters are probably available, but it makes more sense to just get a standard “extension” that can attach to the standard antenna connector found behind the glove box.
Factory head unit connector
Factory antenna wire (behind glove box)