I had no idea cassette tapes were still being used....
Haven't had any experience with the cassette portion of these units, have worked on the CD carriage though. If you want to try digging into it yourself...I could probably set up some pictures of how to take it apart...etc.
Is the cassette itself valuable/needed? The cassette portion of the stereo is probably available, but would most likely cost more than a good used stereo.
I reread your description...you don't have a CD player up front?
If so, then
THIS is the unit you want.
If you want to upgrade to CD up front, then
THIS is the one you want. It'll plug right in, will still work fine with the changer.
TOC Admin
Brando