Hi Everyone,

Fairly new to the forums (only a couple of days), but have been reading a TON on this topic. I'll start by saying thank you in advance.

I read a ton of threads on integration of an aftermarket DVD system into the factory HU, which is exactly what I would like to do on my 2008. As a worst case, I'll just install it freestanding, and the DVD audio will only be available via the headphones, but I would like the flexibility of having it integrated with the factory HU and to have the rear controls work with the DVD as well.

Problem is, most of the threads if not 99% of them, focus on 2005s and before it seems. I found one reference to a 2008, and it wasn't clear if this was even still possible.

So after all that searching and reading, and trying to do my diligence on my own, I'm at the point where I need to ask. I assume this is the more appropriate forum vs General Discussion.

At this point, I'm looking at the M&D AD212/ANS185 setup that I would call up Tech12Volts for (based on the awesome reviews he's received).

So again, I appreciate any help, and I really hope I can do this.

Thanks

In 2008, everything started going through the CAN so it's alot tougher IF it can be done... FM Modulator or connecting to the Aux Jack is easier, as far as I know.. I've heard NICOclub.com has some Service Manuals around somewhere that you can download if you want to give it a try, it's definitely not for the timid, that's for sure..

pops is right, the 2008s and up communicate via CAN and after market devices do not speak the CAN language so integrating those 3rd party units into the factory setup is close to fruitless and not worth your time and disassembly. the 2007 and lower models were somewhat easier to integrate into but now the nav data, music data, etc are all on a HDD and that changes the game.

you can install an aftermarket HU in the dash but you wont be able to integrate the OEM nav, etc to speak with it. i mean the CAN system knows your steering wheel angle, it knows if you had a seat belt on, etc etc. you can install a sub and some tweeters, etc...

now if you want to install an analog device such a s a dvd into the HU, that could be possible since it only affects video and audio. but if you want to integrate the nissan OEM nav software for example into an aftermarket solution, thats where you may end up with a dead end.

does any one know if its possible to install an original nav system on 08 armada that did not come with it if so please advise me what i can also i want to know if its possible to install an oem dvd player as well

again if any one knows if its possible please advise

The Nav it's not the problem the wires are

Thanks.

Pops, nice to meet you...It was suggested to me by James from Tech12Volts to talk with you about this.

All I want, for integration really, is the DVD sound to be available through the factory system, meaning, I could select "AUX" or something to hear the DVD player through the car speakers, and so the factory IR stuff can be used.

If even this can't be done, I can still install the AD212/AS185, but just have it be "on it's own" meaning it's just an add on, and the DVD can only be heard via IR earphones (unless I rig an adapter so I can plug it into the iPod/MP3 input on the lower dash...

Thanks.

Pops, nice to meet you...It was suggested to me by James from Tech12Volts to talk with you about this.

All I want, for integration really, is the DVD sound to be available through the factory system, meaning, I could select "AUX" or something to hear the DVD player through the car speakers, and so the factory IR stuff can be used.

If even this can't be done, I can still install the AD212/AS185, but just have it be "on it's own" meaning it's just an add on, and the DVD can only be heard via IR earphones (unless I rig an adapter so I can plug it into the iPod/MP3 input on the lower dash...

James' Package comes with an FM Modulator that broadcasts over a dedicated Radio Station... The only issue with that is while traveling, some cities might be using those stations, I know that Biloxi, Ms was using all of mine up when I had it... If you run to the Aux Jack, you'll need an In-Line PreAmp of some sort that can inject power into the signal or it'll be too weak, James might have an idea or two of what to use for that... I think those are your best options for what you're asking to do...

Thanks. That what I was thinking...to somehow using the existing MP3 input jack for the DVD audio. I certainly could use a PIE amp like I've seen referenced here. I thought of a few testing scenarios I'll need to do though, like seeing if the factory IR is live, even when rear audio (headphones) is off. If it is, then this would likely work, and I could rig up some type of switch to use Aux for either DVD or aux input like an mp3 player.

But it does sound like the idea of true factory integration with an 08 is out of the question.

What about installation guidance on running wires, how to remove panels, etc? Any info available on that? I didn't really find anything. I'm looking forward to this. I used to install all my own audio gear when I was younger, including cell phones, amps, etc. It's been a while, but I still have the touch!

Oh yeah, so what does CAN stand for?

Controller Area Network.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Controller_area_network

Thanks. But why is the hookup different in a CAN vs non-CAN based model? Seems to me we're just talking about audio signals, unless there's switching and stuff involved that I'm not taking into consideration.

Thanks again.

The deal with the PIE LD-1 though is that it uses RCA connections so you'll likely have to do some splicing to implement it.. I can't help but wonder if there's products out there that has alternative connection options.

I'm not familiar enough with the 2008 and newer models, but on mine I used llaJumpVid's How-To along with CourtesyParts.com parts diagrams.

Here's what I'm thinking...

AD212 output to the PIE-LD1 input. Pie-LD-1 output (to a set of RCA cables with a 1/8" plug at the other end. They would run up under the center console just below the aux jack so I can plug it in. Like this: http://www.belkin.com/IWCatProductPage.process?Product_Id=174535

I am going to search to see if I can do something that would be a permanent connection hidden behind the dash, with a switch to select "DVD" or "Input Jack" for the Aux source...

Any wire run advice though? Or is disassembly of an 08 even different from the earlier models? Probably to some degree it is...

That sounds like a good plan to me... Run the wires through your Center Console, the Gear Shift Handle unscrews and the top cover just pops right off... It's easier to start by removing the Center Console Bin, all I have is a pic that shows the screw holes where the screws need to be removed.. There's 2 screws on the top lip and 3 across the bottom then it just lifts out.

http://www.clubarmada.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=4333&stc=1&d=1177977590

Thanks.

I need to order the DVD console insert and brackets, but I get so confused when I look at Nissan parts diagrams. So many options!

So for the wiring from the DVD player to the monitor in the factory overhead console...what's the recommended path? Up the window pillar and across the headliner, or is there an existing channel I can reuse where the factory wiring is?

Thanks

...Up the window pillar and across the headliner..

That's the way i did mine.. i used a clothes hanger to pull it under the carpet, pulled the door jamb's weather strip and stuffed it behind the weather strip, then across the roof liner. For the rear overhead bin, there are 2 screws inside that front bin then the rest of the head bin should just pop down, if I remember correctly...

Where did you have to go under the carpet, weren't you able to stay above floor level through the center consoles and underside of dash?

That's for running the cable from the Center Console to the Overhead Screen.. There's not enough cable to run it through the dash and up an A-Pillar so instead you just run it up one of the Side Pillars between a front and rear door.

An, so you ran it under the carpet, right behind or under a front seat?

Do you know if the parts you list for the DVD brackets and the center console compartment are the same for an 08? When I look at the Nissan parts diagrams, they have so many overlapping parts, it's really hard to determine which is the right one.

Thanks for all the help.

Yeppers, that's pretty much what I did... I don't know the parts numbers... If you send the part numbers in this link to NascarJody or another Parts Rep, they can get you the new part numbers:

http://www.clubarmada.com/forums/showthread.php?t=7274

Thanks. For example, I'm looking right now, and see 3 options for the part FINISHER-CONSOLE

[96930M] FINISHER-CONSOLE BOX
Armada (TA60) 96930-TA60001
* 10/2005-08/2006 (! 2006)
* 2005+
* 08/2003-08/2004 2WD.FED.LE & SE

[96930M] FINISHER-CONSOLE BOX
Armada (TA60) 96930-TA60003
* 10/2005-08/2006 (! FESS2 2006)
* 08/2003-08/2004 (! FESS2)
* 2005+ (! FESS2)

[96930M] FINISHER-CONSOLE BOX
Armada (TA60) 96930-TA60002
* 2004 .SE (! STFRW STRRK)
* 08/2004-10/2004

Yea, those descriptions always confuse me too and one thing about Courtesy is that when you order online, they'll stick you with it and there's NO refund... Their prices are great but their Customer Service is aweful... Maybe Scott@Fontana could help you out???

But it does sound like the idea of true factory integration with an 08 is out of the question.

?

That's not necessarily true. If you are willing to spend a little more cash you can go with the Kenwood car portal option.

http://www.clubarmada.com/forums/showthread.php?t=12232

http://www.clubarmada.com/forums/showthread.php?t=12346&highlight=carportal

That's not necessarily true. If you are willing to spend a little more cash you can go with the Kenwood car portal option.

http://www.clubarmada.com/forums/showthread.php?t=12232

http://www.clubarmada.com/forums/showthread.php?t=12346&highlight=carportal

:) - I probably should have said "without money and access to extremely talented people!" I don't want to go that far, but if I can get as close as I think I can, I'll be very happy.

Thanks!

Well, looks like the start of this project will be delayed a couple of days. The dealer called to tell me that when they were trying to replace a broken AC vent (as part of the purchase deal), they cracked the overhead console. They are replacing the entire roof console now, to the tune of about $600 plus labor out of their pocket. Ouch.

Hey Pops, I wonder if you know anything about this as an option for a DVD audio connection...

One drawback of using the AUX input for the DVD, is that I can't use an MP3 player and the DVD at the same time, if I want an all factory IR setup for the rear. Basically, I wish I had one more input. But last night I ran across a thread that had some information in about about an adapter that allowed an audio connection (via RCA jacks) into the existing satellite radio input. I have XM in the truck, and I will NEVER use it.

The thread had a link to the part, but it showed discontinued. Now of course, I can't find the link when searching.

Does this ring a bell for you?

Thanks

I don't remember anything like that but KP Technologies makes all kinds of cool stuff for us... Or maybe tvandnav2go??

Found it. Seems the version I found was just an older one, but it's still available. It's by PAC Audio.

http://pac-audio.com/productDetails.aspx?ProductId=378&CategoryID=24

I just need to understand how it works, and if the radio is considered on "radio" or SAT when it's in use. If it's separate from the radio source, I'm golden!