Hi everyone!
I've got a 2005 PT Cruiser, and I'm trying to install a MuzicVault MP3 player form Mptronix:
http://www.mptronix.com/index.htm
Right now, I have it under the passenger seat, not yet secured down or anything. I'm using the cigarette power adapter, FM transmitter, and controlling it with a Blaupunkt RC10 Thummer steering wheel remote and Garmin iQue 3600 GPS/PDA. I've been using it for a few days like this and now I'm trying to plan out how I'm going to properly install it. I'm hoping I can do it myself, but I haven't done anything like this before, so I was looking for a bit of advice before I get started.
I've figured out that I'm going to need an adapter if I'm going to connect the sound directly to the back of the factory stero, but the adaptors I've seen online usually say they are for 2002-2004 Cruisers... I thought I saw a chart saying that the 2005 has the same radio setup, but wanted to be sure before I order something.
Anyway, power is my point of confusion at the moment:
The power cable the comes with it is about 18 inches long, with 3 wires at the end: red (battery), yellow (ignition), and black (ground). The ignition wire is important for the system to be able to shut down properly, saving settings and play position. The instructions say that these connections can usually be found on the back of the radio, which is fine, but will I know them when I see them? I want to be sure I know what to look for before I take my dash apart. How do I connect them once I find them? How do I "split" them? Do I need anything extra, or do I just twist the wires together? And since the cable is only 18 inches, what do I do if it's not long enough? Is there any danger to myself or my car involved in messing with these wires? Are there any other good places to get the power other than the back of the radio?
And finally, does anyone have any suggestions for a discreet place to hide this thing? The thing is 2.25" x 8.25" x 14" and needs about 10" of clearance to remove the cartridge. With it under the seat, the Muzicvault logo is visible to anyone looking in the window unless I throw a jacket or towel over it... How do you guys hide your stuff when you park in a bad neighborhood? Aside from the remote on the steering wheel, and the PDA mount on the dashboard (I take the PDA with me when I leave the car) I want potential theives to see nothing of interest.
Thanks for any suggestions you can give! [^]