iPOD adapter cable routing

[bryan_1980]

I've been thinking about installing a new head unit that can control my iPOD(the Pioneer DEH-4900iB specifically). My question is how should I route the iPOD adapter cable? Anyone with any ideas or photos of a similar installation is welcome!

 

[aldive]

I drilled a hole in the front of the front pocket on the console and routed the cable that way.

Works great for me.

Good luck.

 

[Exploderpilot]

i routed mine through the back of the glove box, so the ipod is hidden while parked. you could run it tinto the center console storage too.....

 

[Mark5767]

I must be missing something, why the heck would you need to install a new head unit just to control an ipod or any similar device?

I just put a piece of velcro next to the radio and it works great! The interface on my Sansa e208r is super easy to use and includes album art, etc. I can't see any reason why I would need to use the head unit for controlling anything but volume and tone.

I just leave it on the dash unless I'm parked in a super sketchy area then I just toss it in the console. It's only $150 so if it got stolen I would not be suicidal, just disappointed I suppose!

 

[Jason94sport]

I ran a cable from the middle dash, under the carpet to the side of the console, then into the console from the bottom. My connection site in the console, & when I need it & plug in the ipod to the cable & since I have a Nano, it fit nicely in the cup holder.

 

[aldive]

I must be missing something, why the heck would you need to install a new head unit just to control an ipod or any similar device?

I like to be able to see the song/suthor, etc on the HU display and to be able to control the ipod via the HU's remote.

I play mine with my Alpine CDA-9883 HU ( http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1711856#post1711856 ).

 

[bryan_1980]

I must be missing something, why the heck would you need to install a new head unit just to control an ipod or any similar device?



Mark, the stereo in my Explorer doesn't have a provision for a auxiliary input adapter like you have. I've also tried FM modulators, but those don't work well in my area. Thus, the only choice i have is to get a new head unit.

As for running the cable to either the glove box or center console, both sound like a great idea. Since the head unit will control the functions of the iPOD, there's really no reason for the iPOD to be accessible. Well, I have to get the funds together first, especially since my wife wants one for her car, too

aldive: Nice head unit, by the way. I might consider that one, too.

 

[1996xlt]

I just pulled apart my center console ran the cord underneath the storage, ashtray/cupholder and pulled the cord up through the tissue dispensor. When I unplug it, I just tuck the cord back in the slot and it all disappears.

 

[Mark5767]

I acutally had to add the aux/mp3 input to my stock head unit in my 2006 XLT... it cost $65 or so. If there is no way to add one of these then a new HU is prolly the way to go.

However, if you can add an input I think I still prefer just velcroing the darn thing to the dash. That way I can see the song, artist and album art, etc etc just fine on the device itself, I don't need to see it on the HU. The position is very convenient, there is no need for a remote IMO unless you are sitting in the backseat.

A new HU might be nice, but just adding an aux input might be less expensive and just as effective. I guess I'm assuming your device has a screen that shows everything you want to see. If not, I would consider a different mp3 player before ponying up for a new HU. Anyway, I am not trying to say a new HU is a bad idea, I'm just saying I'm pretty happy with my set up. Good luck with getting the tunes going!

 

[IAmTodd]

I have mine ran into the console so I can pull it out when driving and hide it when parked.

 

[bryan_1980]

Well, looks like I not have to get another HU after all. USA Spec makes an adapter that might work with my factory HU(the PA11-Ford 1). The only thing you need is a HU that can control a CD changer. I have the premium CD/cassette combo HU, which I believe can control a CD changer(please correct me if I'm wrong). Crutchfield lists it for $79.99+s&h. That's definately a little easier on the wallet!

 

[bryan_1980]

Whoops, spoke a little too soon. The iPOD adapter is $139.99. Not much cheaper than a new HU, but a little.

 

[Mark5767]

Bryan:

If you don't find a certain answer on this forum regarding an adapter specific to your HU (mine is totally different) you might try calling a few local installers. This is what I did and they gave me the exact part number and where to order it because they don't stock it and I needed to buy it and bring it in myself for the install. That's why I ended up installing myself.

Anyway, several installers had a couple different options which were worth exploring so you might check around town (Best Buy, etc) and see what they have to say. Good luck, the ipod will rock when you get 'er done!

 

[IAmTodd]

Well, looks like I not have to get another HU after all. USA Spec makes an adapter that might work with my factory HU(the PA11-Ford 1). The only thing you need is a HU that can control a CD changer. I have the premium CD/cassette combo HU, which I believe can control a CD changer(please correct me if I'm wrong). Crutchfield lists it for $79.99+s&h. That's definately a little easier on the wallet!

I'm using this adapter. Its worth the money! Your headunit will control this.

 

[Flounder]

Well, looks like I not have to get another HU after all. USA Spec makes an adapter that might work with my factory HU(the PA11-Ford 1). The only thing you need is a HU that can control a CD changer. I have the premium CD/cassette combo HU, which I believe can control a CD changer(please correct me if I'm wrong). Crutchfield lists it for $79.99+s&h. That's definately a little easier on the wallet!

Hit the "CD" button. If it shows "NO CDDJ", you're changer capable. If not, then no dice.

 

[Jason94sport]

I would get the Ipod adapter. I have 1 for my Acura & it's nice. I have the stock look, & days of music at my fingertips.

 

[vroomzoomboom]

for mine, i had just enough room to put the control box just behind where your fog light, defrost, and rear wiper switches are, then ran the cables down and under the carpet to the console. i can leave it in there and no one would no any different, up until now!

 

[IAmTodd]

I have my box mounted in the console itself.

 

[bryan_1980]

Thanks for the pic, Todd!

 

[Aero540T]

I have my Alpine iPod box under the passenger seat with the wires run underneath the center console and the iPod hidden in the glove compartment. That way I can leave the iPod out of sight, and have everything accessible from the head unit rather than messing with the iPod while driving. I'm using an older Alpine 9815, but it still works with the adapter just fine