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I am looking to install Sirius in my truck. I have an 04 F-150, but I don't want to install one of those bulky plug n play devices. I want to make as clean an install as possible and tuck the satellite radio display in the ash tray or another unnoticable location.
Has anyone done this? What models are out there that will make this possible? Also, is there a way to run satellite radion direct into an FM station by splicing the antenna?
I heard a rumor that the protocols that Ford built into that AUX port will make it unusable to any auxilary device. I saw the other posts about Blitzsafe, but I still wonder if the AUX button will still recognize an audio signal? Its not unusual for these people to mass produce something and worry about all of the unused functions in a later model.
I am looking to install Sirius in my truck. I have an 04 F-150, but I don't want to install one of those bulky plug n play devices. I want to make as clean an install as possible and tuck the satellite radio display in the ash tray or another unnoticable location.
Has anyone done this? What models are out there that will make this possible? Also, is there a way to run satellite radion direct into an FM station by splicing the antenna?
I heard a rumor that the protocols that Ford built into that AUX port will make it unusable to any auxilary device. I saw the other posts about Blitzsafe, but I still wonder if the AUX button will still recognize an audio signal? Its not unusual for these people to mass produce something and worry about all of the unused functions in a later model.
I would appreciate some help! Thanks
I have been told that you can't use the aux. either........I have the mach 300 (came with it didn't ask 4 it)in my "05" escape w-built in sat and I can't even get a module except thru Ford.............crutchfield said the Mo Co's are delaying the process and sirius said the same thing...........Im not dropping that kinda $ (heard about $350)to ford .........I'll wait!
I'll offer what I learned when installing my XM MyFi - it is a clean install.
Power source: I spliced a power converter into the HU switched power. Look for a green/yellow cable on the back of the HU. This set-up allows my satellite radio to stay on after the key is removed and until a door is opened. My XM requires only 5V, thus the converter. You could also splice a female accessory recepticle (Radio Shack carries them) into this power source and then plug your Sirius in and hide the connections behind the radio bezel.
Signal: I think Sirius radios also have "in-line" modulators. Simply hook your radio antenna and Sirius antenna into the modulator and connect to the satellite radio. Whatever station your Sirius radio unit is tuned to broadcast on gets a boost to your HU. Not as good as a direct input, but better than an FM signal.
Last edited by 2005-Ford-KR; May 28, 2005 at 03:12 PM.
Thanks for the input! I would be willing to pay for some kind of converter to get that direct input, but I am going to try the direct FM modulator that plugs into the antenna port.
I think I will get my shopping done tomorrow (probably can't get the install done until this weekend). I will try to take some pictures to let you see how it turned out!
The converter is to replace the cigar recepticle - it converts the 12-15V from the truck to 5.5V for the MyFi. It essentially replaces the cigar lighter adapter. Sorry about the confusion.
I have an in-line modulator like you're planning to install - it works great.
I can tell you that too... Open the ashtray and carefully pull up on the bezel. There are 6 clips - three on both sides that hold it in place. Pull firmly, but do not "yank" or torque it. It'll come loose with a little force. Once the bottom ones are loose, work your way up.
No need to disconnect the stuff on the bezel except the airbag light for easier access.
There are four screws holding the radio in. Once removed, slide it towards you.
If the clips for the bezel do not come out, use pliers to pull them out - a pair of tweezers also comes in handy when compressing the clips to remove them. Put them back on the bezel and reinstall top to bottom (reverse the uninstall).
Let me know if you have any other questions.
05FKR
Last edited by 2005-Ford-KR; May 31, 2005 at 09:39 PM.
Yeah, I thought there were just clips holding it in, but it was not giving very much with a little pressure, so I figured I would double check before I crack the dash. Do you need to pull the ash tray out first? I can't see how that is connected.
Thanks for the input. I plan on taking pictures of the entire install so everyone can check it out, and hopefully make it easier on future installers.
That looks real clean...did you run the antenna out through the brake light? Did you run the antenna wire through the headliner or bring it down to the floor?
The antenna is snaked behind the dash and glove box (easy to get behind the glove box - just squeeze the right side and it will drop for access behind) up the passenger pillar, under the headliner, and out the 3rd eye tail light.
You can also try running out through the passenger side fire wall (open the door to find the pass through) and then place it under the wiper cowling for a stealth install. I did this initially, but had a little more interference than I liked. Some have reported no problems though. I think it depends on where you live.
The tuner is what you see in the picture - it's a MyFi unit.
Last edited by 2005-Ford-KR; May 31, 2005 at 10:42 PM.
The antenna is run up the A-pillar on the drivers side, under the molding for the headliner, and out the back to over the 3rd brakelight. Looks 100% clean! Eventually I will install a hidden cigg. lighter so I can hide the big transformer plug.
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