8.4 radio replacement

[rotwiler]

My 2021 8.4 radio(base audio) has had a odd kind of static in certain freq, i bypassed ANC, updated firmware to latest, replaced all speakers, removed fuse for radio under dash. Nothing helped, some songs sound OK, then ones with higher vocals sound kind of static sounding. Added a jbl dsp amp, still hear it. All inputs sound like that, sometimes worse than others, xm, usb, even tried flac, AA. Now thinking Radio must have issue. If I replace, do I have to get a 2021 Radio? I know I will need a unlock code, anything else? The 2021 radio uses different firmware than 2019-2020. I want to retain everything like trailer steering, trailer tpms in settings. Or should I go for a uconnect 5. Radio now is fine for me, just hate the static sound, could switch over my screen if needed since mine is in perfect condition. Any help appreciated. Going on trip in 2 months and really want to get rid of this bad sound. Weird thing, most rap sounds sound good, but songs with good vocals sound crappy.

 

[Infotainment]

My 2021 8.4 radio(base audio) has had a odd kind of static in certain freq, i bypassed ANC, updated firmware to latest, replaced all speakers, removed fuse for radio under dash. Nothing helped, some songs sound OK, then ones with higher vocals sound kind of static sounding. Added a jbl dsp amp, still hear it. All inputs sound like that, sometimes worse than others, xm, usb, even tried flac, AA. Now thinking Radio must have issue. If I replace, do I have to get a 2021 Radio? I know I will need a unlock code, anything else? The 2021 radio uses different firmware than 2019-2020. I want to retain everything like trailer steering, trailer tpms in settings. Or should I go for a uconnect 5. Radio now is fine for me, just hate the static sound, could switch over my screen if needed since mine is in perfect condition. Any help appreciated. Going on trip in 2 months and really want to get rid of this bad sound. Weird thing, most rap sounds sound good, but songs with good vocals sound crappy.

The best thing to do is to get the same part number radio. Once you pull the unit out, there will be a sticker on the radio which will have the part number. Getting the same part number will allow for the features your vehicle has to work on the new radio unit.
You can also send your radio to use for repair service. We will repair the sound issue if it is replicated on our bench.

 

[Stephen Cutler]

how do I remove the U-Connect screen assembly- looking for bad or disconnected line out to power amp

 

[kapinallinen2]

how do I remove the U-Connect screen assembly- looking for bad or disconnected line out to power amp

This is on the 8.4 display. The 12 inch is little different.
Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
Remove the upper center bezel tray liner, remove the two screws.
Firmly grasp the sides of the instrument panel center bezel by hand, disengage the retainer clips that secure the instrument panel center bezel to the instrument panel, you have to pull pretty hard straight out.
Disconnect the wire harness connectors.
Remove the screws holding the DSM in place.

But...
The screen does not feed the amp. It communicates with the radio via CAN-IHS bus.
"The radio receives touchscreen signals via the LVDS wire harness that connects directly between the radio and DSM. The DSM communicates via a hardwired backchannel protocol with the radio over the LVDS wire harness"

What symptom do you have?
edit: also consider subscribing to AllDataDIY for specific information on your MY truck.
Do It Yourself Automotive Repair Information | ALLDATA DIY

 

[Infotainment]

how do I remove the U-Connect screen assembly- looking for bad or disconnected line out to power amp

You want to look at the 52 pin connector going to the Uconnect 4 module for that data or the blue/green connectors on the Uconnect 5 module.

 

[Stephen Cutler]

The best thing to do is to get the same part number radio. Once you pull the unit out, there will be a sticker on the radio which will have the part number. Getting the same part number will allow for the features your vehicle has to work on the new radio unit.
You can also send your radio to use for repair service. We will repair the sound issue if it is replicated on our bench.

How do I pull the old unit? What is securing it in place. I have a suspicion that the entire dash has to be remove to access fasteners

 

[Stephen Cutler]

I think these trucks are designed purposely to force Customers to use the Dodge Service Department - It is Job Security for them. Gone are the days of Points, Distributors & Caps & Carburetors. At some point it will cost less to swap engines with a 1960s rebuilt & Tranny

 

[rotwiler]

How do I pull the old unit? What is securing it in place. I have a suspicion that the entire dash has to be remove to access fasteners

Is very easy, I removed screws in top area with the RAM logo, rest pops off(litterally can have radio out in less than 5 minutes, is easier than the 4th gen Rams which was also pretty easy), pull each side, only thing holding the whole radio/ac knobs etc is the screws at top, can't remember, but was 2 or 4 screws, whole assembly just pops off and in when done(just protect console, I put a folded blanket to prevent scratches when pulling sides to remove. Remove all the things plugged in. Hardest part was reaching down when plugging everything back in and finding the plug in slot. I installed a 8.4 (mine had static issues I couldn't resolve) radio from truck with under 20k Miles for under $200 shipped, was exact year and firmware as my old 2021 8.4., works perfect.