| kamui |
Hello all!
I just recently picked up a base model MDX. Already have plans to perform some upgrades. My first goal is to mount a touchscreen LCD onto the center dash (for oem look) where the technology package would normally have its GPS display. I believe its a 8" non-touchscreen LCD. Want to install a carPC. I am trying to find out if its possible, what parts will I need to replace (i.e. buying acura replacement center dash parts from technology model), and how difficult it would be.
Does anyone have experience doing this with the 2nd gen MDX? |
|
|
| csmeance |
quote:
Originally posted by kamui
Hello all!
I just recently picked up a base model MDX. Already have plans to perform some upgrades. My first goal is to mount a touchscreen LCD onto the center dash (for oem look) where the technology package would normally have its GPS display. I believe its a 8" non-touchscreen LCD. Want to install a carPC. I am trying to find out if its possible, what parts will I need to replace (i.e. buying acura replacement center dash parts from technology model), and how difficult it would be.
Does anyone have experience doing this with the 2nd gen MDX?
I don't have expereince with the MDX, but you should be good using the shrowd from the tech MDX and just screwing in a screen, and cutting out the plastic protector around the shrowd. You would then have to run the video and USB cable to the car PC, the easiest method is to run the wires under the radio, under the driver side dash, down to the floor and back under the panels to whereever you decide to put it. |
|
|
| kamui |
| That's what I am thinking as well. I went by an Acura dealer to look at the difference between the base model and the tech package (navi). The center panel and center panel assembly looks different. Found the part numbers here (http://www.acuraoemparts.com/delray...EL%2BGARNISH%2B(DRIVER%2BSIDE)&ListAll=All&vinsrch=no). Looks like #3 and #6. I am curious if the mounts inside are the same. Hard to tell from picture. I tried asking the part guy at the dealer but he's not sure. Would be nice if I had a service manual at this point. Would like to know the disassembly process for the screen and see if the nuts and bolts have the same pattern inside. Anyone have access to one that they can share? |
|
|
| shootist |
quote:
Originally posted by kamui
.... Would be nice if I had a service manual at this point. ... Anyone have access to one that they can share?
The service manual is available at Helminc.com fro about $75 plus shipping. You absolutely need this manual before you start a mod like this.
Most states ban DVD (movie) screens that can be seen by the driver, unless they can only be turned on when the ignition is off. The ban can be used against you if you're ever in an accident. How about the car PC? Does this fall within the same ban? |
|
|
| csmeance |
| judging by the diagrams and parts required, it looks the same |
|
|
| BeachRunnerX |
quote:
Originally posted by csmeance
I don't have expereince with the MDX, but you should be good using the shrowd from the tech MDX and just screwing in a screen, and cutting out the plastic protector around the shrowd. You would then have to run the video and USB cable to the car PC, the easiest method is to run the wires under the radio, under the driver side dash, down to the floor and back under the panels to whereever you decide to put it.
That might look fine, but if it's a touch screen it would stink. Unless you have go-go-gadget arms! The screen is really far forward in the MDX.
And I have to ask: you might have saved $2k by not buying a tech... how much are you going to have into the carPC and what benefits do you really think it will bring you? Seems like a big project with mediocre results and a lack of factory integration. Just my opinion. |
|
|
| kamui |
First, thanks to all that have responded.
I can reach the screen okay. Besides, it being where it is will prevent me from trying to use the gps while driving. There is also another alternative which is called a spacenavigator (looks similar to the oem gps navigation dial) which I can use. You are only limited to your imagination in terms of what it can do. That...I am good at. GPS, rear infrared camera, internet access through phone or wifi (to also provide live traffic), music with voice command (seen the ford focus sync commercial?), weather, obd information etc. Cost estimate is $700 (already have some of these stuff). Software can be upgraded and changed (good).
It looks like I only need the two parts that make up the center dash housing the gps so I'll start with that. Hmm...service manual. Anyone tried the Honda Service Express website? |
|
|
| craniotes |
I can't offer much (anything) in the way of installation advice here, but I'm curious to see the final product. Be sure to keep us updated with your progress, and please post photos once you have this mod up and running.
Good luck!
Regards,
Adam |
|
|
|
