2007 4Runner Head Unit in a '93

harrydunn · 11-02-09, 07:22 AM

I've searched through mulitple forums and snagged some good info. but still wanted to run this by you.

Most rigs I see with the Scion or FJ Cruiser head units seem to be 1995-1997's. Is there a problem installing these in a '93-'94 that I'm not aware of?

I've located a 2005 Scion xB head unit for the right price and would like to give it a shot. I do own a Dremel.

Should I proceed or is it more difficult than it's worth? I've cut through the dash of two $30,000+ Mastercraft ski boats (my brothers') with a Dremel to install head units so I'm not worried about that part. I just want to make sure the connections will be plug 'n play for the most part.

Thanks.

bmac1996acc · 11-02-09, 01:45 PM

Title of your thread says 4Runner head unit but you ask about Scion or FJ Cruisers.

harrydunn · 11-02-09, 01:53 PM

Hmmmm...just noticed that. I edited the title right after I posted. Not sure why it didn't retitle the post. It did re-title it within the thread it would appear but I digress...sorry for the confusion.

At any rate, I've thrown a bid down on a T1804 out of an xB so that is what I'm focusing on for the moment. Beyond some Dremeling, my understanding is that I by-pass the amp and my Land Cruiser factory harness will plug right in. That's what I'm trying to verify.

Thanks,

Mark

S.CarolinaFZJ80 · 11-02-09, 04:15 PM

Yes just use the other set of plugs down there that match you radio openings. You can remove the stock amp behind the passenger dash speaker. This will allow for a deeper speaker to fit in there. By not using the factory amp you only lose the worthless stock sub in the right rear cargo area. The other 8 speakers will still work.

The price for the radio may be right but if you plan on getting SAT radio, it may not be. The Directed electronics TOY-SC1 interface is discontinued and is pretty hard to find now. I know because I was saving up a bunch of Best Buy points to get it only to find out that they don't stock it anymore, nor does Crutchfield.

However, you can get some factory refurbished ones from eBay but I am leary of those, especially when they are selling them for the same price as new ones were priced just a few months ago. This TOY-SC1, will set you back $99 plus you need the SCC1 which connects to the interface and then into an antenna. That is $50 or so.

Here are some pics.

S.CarolinaFZJ80 · 11-02-09, 04:29 PM

This is not ment to discourage you by any means. I'm just passing on the info so you can see if it's worthwhile.

Anyway, I got the head unit last winter (for what I thought was the right price) and installed it fairly easily. You will need to file down the metal on the stock radio mounts just a little, trim your dash moulding and cut off a portion of the left side of the Scion HU faceplate. (see pics below).

Keep in mind that your display will be orange or at least my 1807 is. It bothers me but I have dealt with it. The LEDs in it can be changed by someone with the know how for about $40. I can dig up the guys e-mail if anyone is interested. Also, these don't allow direct IPOD plug in or functionality along with SAT. Some Scion HU's do just not the 1807 & 1804, that I know of. (You can get a harness that allow for the sound to go to your stereo system but it will not charge your IPOD or allow you to use the HU to select music that I am aware of) I think that takes the place of the SAT in the back of the HU.

If I had to do it again though... I would have bought a nice aftermarket headunit. because to do it right, it could cost you as much as $250-300.

Headunit $50 ish
Toy-SC1 $100
SCC1 $50
Change LEDs $40
Misc. postage $40 (receieve radio then send out for LED change)

So, it's up to you.

BTW - I am still searching for an TOY-SC1 if anyone has one for "the right price"

harrydunn · 11-02-09, 08:31 PM

Quote:

This is not ment to discourage you by any means. I'm just passing on the info so you can see if it's worthwhile.

I appreciate the honest replies. Definitely something to think about. I don't need the SAT hookups. I'm old school and just listen to FM or an occasional CD.

I'm kind of like you though--the amber may bug me. The Sony aftermarket unit installed by the PO allows for a color change and matches the green dash well. It's a nice unit but the buttons are too small and it just looks a little odd in a 16-year-old dash is all.

Thanks,

Mark

elprup87 · 11-03-09, 06:36 PM

I have a 2007-ish FJC radio in my 91 FJ80. Its not the upgraded radio, but I believe its the same toyota head in the 4Runners and RAV4s (we have loads of those vehicles at work). I only had to dremmel the dash some to work. The unit is orangeish in color, but nothing too bright or annoying. I would have preferred a similar green, but for $35 I cant complain. I just bypassed the amp and was set to go. Didnt have to buy any additional connectors. I dont have SAT or an AUX yet, only plan on getting an AUX. Stock harness works perfectly for obvious reasons. The new head made my speakers sound greater than before, and actually found out my rear driver channel was out on the stock 91 FJ amp.

Read your the title about the 4Runner headunits, but see a pic of the scion one so I am confused. Hope this helps.