03-07 Non-Nav - can head unit be replaced?

[michaelbhatch]

Hey Mud,
I know this one has been frequently discussed in the FAQ, but for the specific question I have, I've seen some conflicting information (both on Mud and on TLCFAQ). For the (Rare) 03-07 non-nav rigs, is it possible / straight forward to replace the center stack with an aftermarket double din unit? I see there are dash kits available online and I've seen at least one photo of someone who claims to have done it . . . but then I see on TLCFAQ they state that because of the integrated radio/information unit, there is no solution currently available. If it helps, I've attached a photo of the center stack I'd like to replace with an aftermarket double-din unit. Any help or clarification you guys can provide would be greatly appreciated - thanks!
Mike

 

[HFDPNL]

I would say that's a 'yes', but I don't know about it specifically....

What have you done to your 100 Series this week?

Post #5154

 

[Lowbudgetlc100]

no factory nav i think you are in the clear

 

[uHu]

I changed mine last winter. Got a surround/fascia from somewhere and an Alpine single din all-in-one unit with an 8" screen. 8" is a bit bigger than standard for a 2-din space, but by moving the eyebrow display (above radio) up 3 mm, I managed to squeeze it in. (The original (oem) HU is also much wider at the front than a standard 2-din unit)
The radio/HU I had looks just like yours, and had a data-controlled amplifier. Between the HU and the amp under the seat were cables for L and R signal, power control, and Tx and Rx data. So everything like volume, balance and fader was controlled by the digital control signal.
Result was that I had to put in new amps as well (or use the 4 x 100W built into the Alpine)

 

[uHu]

nother pic:

What a mess. But good that the HU main part is only 1-din high - Gives space for all the connectors.
I ran new cables down to the amps for signal, used an existing for power control, and used an existing conductor for speed signal into the new HU. On the original setup the speed signal went into the computerized amplifier. On the new HU with NAV, the speed signal is used for accurate speed/distance to the GPS/Navi, works also in tunnels. And for speed dependent sound volume, if enabled.
Drilled a hole thru the roof for a new combination antenna, GPS/FM/DAB, and disabled the original motor antenna.