AO

I've been thinking about what kind of Navigation head unit to install. The choices have been limited to either a Double DIN (4"x6") or a Single Din (2"x6") with a flip up screen. There are a host of issues with trying to install a double DIN unit in our cars and requires extensive modifications that I really wasn't up for (mostly because I wasn't convinced that I couldn't make it look good.) Then there's the flip up screens that you see on Unique Whips and Pimp-my-Ride, etc. They're kind of cool, but they get in the way of the HVAC controls and it just totally looks like an afterthought. So I scapped that idea.

But JVC recently released this Single DIN HDD-based Navigation head unit. Model number is KD-NX5000 in case you're interested. The screen is 3.5" which I thought was going to be too small, but it works perfectly. This unit can do it all, 15GB for Navigation, 24GB of HD space for music, videos, etc, AM, FM, Satellite compatibility, CD, CD-MP3, DVD-MP3, DVD, Navigation, Bluetooth, iPod, backup camera, and a couple more that I can't think of off hand.

Installation was a snap! I still have 2 wires to figure out: illumination (so it will auto dim when I turn on the lights) and the reverse lights to automatically engage the reverse camera which I have not purchased yet. BTW, the speed sender for 1991 is P15, not F15 as Alan had guessed.

Controls are pretty easy (I'm still figuring them out), and the voice guidance is very accurate so far. Re-routing only takes a couple of seconds unlike my buddy's Garmin which seems to take forever! You can trick the unit into letting you watch a DVD while driving by grounding the "parking brake" interface connector. You can even have it continue to guide you while you watch.

All in all, I'm very happy with the unit and how it looks in the car. My only wish is that they hadn't made the whole thing so damn shiny. Oh well, it's a small gripe.

BTW, I paid $689 for the unit from Abe's of Maine, and I bought the bluetooth adapter on ebay (arrives on Monday). Camera will probably be one of those cheapos from Ebay as well. I think it's a pretty good value, and I finally have all the gadgetry I wanted for the car.

About the pics:
1. Here's where I put the GPS antenna. You'd really have to look for it to see it. I just hope it stays there when I do 150MPH+
2. Close up of GPS antenna (BTW, I'll probably do an all-in-one antenna ala Shark Fin some day soon.)
3. Head unit installed (turned off)
4. Navi Screen
5. Close up of Navi Screen
6. Vehicle Stats screen
7. The whole package... looks pretty good if I do say so myself!

ceedee

what is that i see? a crack in the windshield?
did you have it before, or just after the installation?

BTW that unit is friggin sweet (as napoleon d. ) would say.
i'll put in a request at the shrine for one

DonT

WOW ! ! ! Andrew comes thru again. That looks great, beautiful installation.

Courtshark

Is that a DIVX logo I see? I thought that service was long gone. How do you fill the 24 GB of music/video memory (as in, does it read the data off a data disc)? Does it have a USB input? How many RCA outputs does this unit provide? Is the unit capable of displaying other gauge readings? I especially like the compass, though. Much cleaner looking than the big glass one stuck onto the windshield in my grandfather's old dodge station wagon, lol.

Looks great! I will be seeking one of these out soon. Very cool.

AO

At some point in the car's life the windshield was replaced, but with one that has the built in antenna even though my car has the roof antenna... Amateures!

AO

Thanks. Yes it can read DIVX files. No USB port, so you need to burn stuff to a disc (cd or DVD) and then copy to the HD. 3 RCA outputs (front, rear, sub) IIRC. And those are the only gages it displays that I'm aware of so far.

M. Requin

Wow! This may replace my retro McIntosh head at some point - knew a single DIN unit like this would appear. Thanks for thh fine pix.

AO

Guys (Alan & Sharkskin):

I'd like to make my connections for the illumination and backup features at the CE panel if possible. I figured out the Illumination (tap into T11, D11, S25, or D21). But I don't know what to do for the back up feature. Here' the relay for my car...

I think I'd tap into U12... but I don't know how to read the relay .

Any insight?

Alan

Andrew - you don't even have that relay....!

I'll take a look at the connections - its easier on an auto.

Why did you you put the GPS antenna on the ouside? it will work just as well and likely be more stealthy on the inside right next to the A pillar - great view of the sky... Actuially its more stealthy still on the drivers side due to the pod.

Also avoids any concerns about paint damage fading etc...

Alan

AO

Thanks Alan... I would have eventually figured out that I don't have that relay (just noticed the option code... )

I'll try the antenna on the inside. I guess I thought it work better on the outside.

hacker-pschorr

Is that why you are always walking around with your fly open?

AO

I knew it! You were trying to get a free look. Next time just ask; Loralie did and she wasn't disappointed! I have the pictures to prove it, too.

hacker-pschorr

What was I supposed to do, I thought you had a cocktail weenie in your pocket.

Alan

Andew - even although you don't have that relay it is still wired and has an installed bridge connected to plug U11 - this is just the fused supply to the back of the car to the reverse switch on the transmission - that directly drives the reverse lights on a manual. There is a connector to the switch behind the plastic cover above and in front of the battery compartment in the spare tire well. This is the furthest forward place you can connect to it..

Its a 2 pin connector with a Blue & Brown wire one side and a Blue & Black/Blue the other - you need the Blue ones - they go to 12V when reverse is active. I know its a pain... how do you feel about taking out the passenger front & rear seats & lifting passenger side carpets for the shortest & neatest run.. (Not what you wanted to hear I'm sure....!)

Alan

Mike Frye

Andrew, nice setup. I see what you mean about 'shiny', but I don't think it looks bad at all. It fits very well and rather than looking out of place in an older car it makes the car look more modern IMO.


Alan,

Isn't there something in the console or pod that indicates 'R' on an automatic? Or AO, maybe you can put in a microswitch under your shift plate to trigger 12 v when the shifter is in the 'R' location. Just a thought since it's all right there.