The radio is locked in our 97, we found the code written on a piece of paper but we don't have an owners manual. Any ideas?

 

This is for a 96 but should be the same.
You need to do this fairly quickly as it will reset if you stop for more than 15 seconds.
To activate, change code.
1 Turn key to run
2 Turn off radio
3 Press the 1 and 4 buttons together, hold them until --- shows on display.
4 Press MN and 000 will appear.
5 Press MN to change the last two numbers.
6. Press HR to change the first two numbers. (code must be between 000 and 1999)
7. Press AM-FM after you set code. Display will show REP.
8. Redo steps 4 thru 7 to comfirm code.
9 When you press AM-FM it should show SEC to let you know your radio is secure.

To unlock.
1 Ignition on it should say LOC
2 Press MN and 000 will appear.
3 Press MN to change last two numbers.
4 Press HR to change first two numbers.
5 Press AM-FM, the display should show SEC. This will lock again when the power is shut off to the radio.

If you put in the wrong code 8 times you will have to wait 1 hour with the ignition on. Then you will only have 3 chances to get it right.

To disable.
1 Turn key to run.
2 Turn radio off.
3 Press 1 and 4 buttons together. Hold them until SEC appears.
4 Press MN and 000 will appear.
5 Press MN to change last two numbers.
6 Press HR to change first two numbers.
7 Press AM-FM it should then show ---
That means the radio is no longer secure.
If you get the code wrong it will show SEC. It will unlock when you get it right.
If you lose power to the radio with this enabled it will show LOC when you regain power and you will have to unlock it.

Hope this helps.
Good Luck.

That was a lot of typing.
I think I have carpol tunnel now. (however that's actually spelled) LOL