XM Radio Install

Hey guys, I installed Xm this past weekend, and took some pics in case you decide to do it, you'll have som ideas on where to put stuff..

http://www.viavite.com/pics/2/DSC00002.JPG

That is where I put the antenna. The reason being, in the center the hatch pushed on the wires, and looks like it could cause some wear and tear. On the right, it doesn't push on them. (About 1 - 2 inches from the hindge)

http://www.viavite.com/pics/2/DSC00004.JPG

This is where I put the decoder. There was plenty of room to clean up the wirse, and zip tie them off so that they are away from the Jack. Also, a simple screw into the 1/8th inch metal that hold the jack provided for an excellent ground.

http://www.viavite.com/pics/2/DSC00005.JPG

This is the pioneer DEH-6400 that I chose for the head unit, simple, but good clean power.. I'd guess 22 - 24 RMS

BTW: I mounted it on the bottom shelf because it was supported better, but also it is easier to access, and gets more shade on sunny days to help keep the display visible.

http://www.viavite.com/pics/2/DSC00008.JPG

Infinty Component install..

http://www.viavite.com/pics/DSC00007.JPG

This is the inside with the crossover and the tweeters installed. I managed to salvage the factor plugs, so that I can just connect and disconnect the speakers in the future, and not have to worry about screwing and unscreing all the wires... This also allowd me to put a few drops of soder on the crossover to keep the wires from jiggling loose...

http://www.viavite.com/pics/DSC00008.JPG

(close up of crossover w/ factory plugs..)

Ok, wen't a little off the XM subject... If anyone is thinking of getting XM, please tell me, so you can use me as a refernce.. I can get a free hat w/ 1 - 2 references!!!

- Miker

Grim, looks great. Only one thing you might worry about. The XM antenna is supposed to have 6 inches of metal around it minimum. If you are in an area htta has a lot of ground repeaters then it won't be much of a problem but otherwise you may experience occasional drop outs.

Greg,

It's kinda hard to tell from the picture, but it is 6 inches back, (well. like 5 1/2) and all around it is metal.. The roof racks are plastic, but the metal continues below it. I asked the XM rep at the store about this, and he said it was mor ethan fine, and that the 6 inch requirement is just so people don't mount it on their sunroofs, or roof racks, or something crazy..

I wish XM had some sort of "Signal Level" indecator, to tell you how strong your signal is.

Anyone knowtice that some XM stations need to fix their gain... some are real low, and some are kinda loud..

- Miker

You should be fine then. I've actually mounted some of the Sony and Pioneer antennas inside cars of the rear hatch cover tray and had them work fine also. You actually can get a signal meter but it's only on the RF controller. Sort of stupid to only have it on that one, but hey it's their product.

If you do installs, have any idea where to get the pioneer phone muter?

- Miker

I don't think the 6400 has the input line for it. I'll have to check later today when I get to work. I should be geting some in stock this morning. If it doesn't then you basically have to use the phone mute line from the phone's car kit hooked to a relay that disconnects the switched power for the radio so that it shuts down temporarily.

It has the plug for it...I swear!

Hey, can you take a look at this thread for me, see if you can help..

http://forum.protegemp3.com/vbb222/showthread.php?s=&threadid=2468

- Miker

man i love my XM... what i really like is when i bought a thousand shares at 1.75

Well, I think it was smart.. everyone was making fun of me for "Paying for radio" until they saw and heard it.. Now it's a different story..

- Miker