Finding replacement for old amplifier IC

[rexxar]

Hello all, I've been trying to hunt down a replacement amplifier IC for my car's radio. Of course they have custom part numbers (thanks a lot, Chrysler), but I'm pretty sure it's a Philips TDA1552Q. It may also be the 1557, which has a higher gain. I'm not sure.

Thing is, these chips were last manufactured in the 90s, so they're not available anywhere. I tried searching for a replacement, but I've not been able to find anything. Anyone have any ideas? I'm not adverse to modding in two single amps in place of the double-amp Philips part, I don't know if that would be easier than trying to find a direct replacement.

And yeah, I could put a newer, better stereo in there, but I'd have to use a blanking plate because it's one of those really tall radios. I really don't want to use a blanking plate, I think it looks bad to have a radio floating in the middle of a big blank square.

[all_repair]

One day  I shall put up on ebay.  I think I have th3m somewhere.

[GreyWoolfe]

Wouldn't a double din radio fit? I am sure that both Scosche and Metra make kits and wiring harnesses for your vehicle.  Personally, I would choose Scosche over Metra for the dash kit.  I've never liked the way you have to completely build up the Metra kits.

[Skimask]

Have you tried scouring the salvage yards for a like model radio?  Those things (eg radios, cassette players, etc are a dime-a-dozen at those places...unless they're new-ish anyways.

[electronupdate]

ebay shows 7 vendors selling this part ranging from $5 to $14.

[rexxar]

Have you tried scouring the salvage yards for a like model radio?  Those things (eg radios, cassette players, etc are a dime-a-dozen at those places...unless they're new-ish anyways.

No, I completely forgot about that.    When/if I have some money, I'll go cannibalize another car; I need a few various bits and pieces.

In case anyone wants a life lesson: Don't get a 16 year old car and attend college in the US. That is, unless you don't mind not eating for a few weeks. (This week's unexpected expense was new brake cylinders.  )

[Vgkid]

In case anyone wants a life lesson: Don't get a 16 year old car and attend college in the US. That is, unless you don't mind not eating for a few weeks. (This week's unexpected expense was new brake cylinders.  )

They are like around $20 at the major auto parts stores, or half(or less) that at rockauto.com. They only take a couple of hours to replace.