Tim NYC (E28 M5)

Ok, so i've had my V1 for 3 months or so and finally got around to installing the concealed display today. After seeing ToyGuy's crazy dope install I wanted to do something kinda cool and functional so here is my solution... enjoy!...

So here is my v1 location.. I spun the mirror upside down to give the main unit room...
<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/22539/dscn0963.jpg">

Then I ran the included phone cord across the headliner and down the a-pillar. It actually fits quite nice and is invisible. Then, using this neat little prybar thing, I stuffed the cord down past the soft corner of the dash:
<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/22539/dscn0966.jpg">

and then fished it out with a claw tool:

<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/22539/dscn0968.jpg">

after pulling the whole vent assembly off (use a screwdriver *gently* to get it started) I cut the wires to the lighted dial because the plug was too hard to remove...and then used the mighty dremel to drill a hole in the side of the vent tubing and fed the accessory cord throuch.
<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/22539/dscn0973.jpg">

Here's what it looks like with the hardwire power module attached (the accessory cord is coming out of the top right)
<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/22539/dscn0974.jpg">

Note that to get the phone cord to fit into the remote display you have to dremel about 1/8" off the back of the phone plug to allow the cord to bend... see cut line here"
<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/22539/dscn0977.jpg">

Using a torx t-8 bit take apart the remote display to end up with the guts as shown here:
<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/22539/dscn0976.jpg">

Now for the vent: Dremel the crap out of the top two rows as shown here.. and remember to check the fit of the display periodically. Remember... go slow with the dremel... I let it get away from me once (check out the far left side for the ding it left)
<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/22539/dscn0983.jpg">

Almost done... I used a slice of the unused housing to fill in the gap on the left (button) side of the display. Sliced and filed to fit and then a couple dabs of super glue attach it to the underside of the display:
<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/22539/dscn0984.jpg">

Then dremel the backside of the housing and cut some of the vent valve to allow the cord to pass, and then hot glue to keep the accessory cord in place...
<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/22539/dscn0987.jpg">

This is what the display looks like before reassembly...i used some hot glue to keep the display in place and also covered the electronics with some electrical tape.
<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/22539/dscn0985.jpg">

When re-assembling use 22 gague butt crimpers to crimp the lighting leads back together...

And VIOLA! A dope custom installed display!

<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/22539/dscn0991.jpg">

Note: you still have full use of the vent....

So far the only drawback of this location is that while driving at the "correct" 10 and 2 position my hand blocks the display. I think I'll get used to it!!!!!

Enjoy!

VicG

Good job. I'm impressed, I might do the same.

massmole

did you use anything to protect/insulate the remote display's circuit board?

wouldn't condensation, cold, heat, or whatever blows out of the vent wreak havoc on the unit long term?

ScottAW

Where's the driver's view shot?!? :P

Tim NYC (E28 M5)

ummmm... on its way?

Tim NYC (E28 M5)

I did cover it with electrical tape... but maybe I should encase it with hot glue or something....

Tim NYC (E28 M5)

Email me if you got Q's....

VicG

I have non-remote unit,mounted above mirror like you have, except on right side. The thing is bright as the sun at night, even with its auto dimming feature. Now, with remote setup, does the normal unit remain totally dark, and only remote unit controls the body unit?

Tim NYC (E28 M5)

Main unit is completely dark, but volume is still controlled on main (mute button on remote)

James R.

I would suggest you hold off on doing anything like what AudiG4 has done...not to take anything from him, but just take my word for it...otherwise you MAY be kicking yourself. The APR BBQ is only 1 Month and 6 days away...it will all be clear after that.

Regards,

James R.