2002 Town Car - How can I install 7" LCD

**nunz** · 05-17-2008, 10:04 AM

Hello. This is my first post at mp3car.com.

I have a 2002 Town Car. The cutout for the factory audio unit in the dash is slightly smaller than a so-called Double-DIN. Short of fabricating something from scratch, I wonder if the only way to install a 7" panel is to somehow put it behind the cutout. This would certainly block control buttons typically found on the bezel of LCD panels.

Any better solution?

**greatwhite** · 05-17-2008, 11:16 AM

Seems as if you've answered you own questions.................

**nunz** · 05-17-2008, 11:43 AM

greatwhite,
Thanks for your reply.
Suppose that I do install a 7" LCD panel behind the factory cutout. Since the control buttons on the outer bezel of the LCD will be block, how would I gain control of the functions provided by these buttons?

For example, please look at this panel:
http://store.mp3car.com/New_7_Transf..._p/mon-052.htm

-- nunz

Originally Posted by greatwhite

Seems as if you've answered you own questions.................

**nunz** · 05-17-2008, 12:48 PM

Suppose that I do install a 7" LCD panel from behind the factory cutout.
Then, the control buttons on the LCD panel will be blocked.
How would I then access the functions of the LCD that are controlled by these buttons?

http://store.mp3car.com/New_7_Transf..._p/mon-052.htm

**greatwhite** · 05-17-2008, 03:43 PM

Relocate the buttons or use the remote............

**muldrick** · 05-17-2008, 08:38 PM

You'd have to cut a hole in that bezel so it can see the remote (IR).
Or leave the monitor always on. (If it has auto-on capabilities)

**quantum** · 05-17-2008, 11:25 PM

Originally Posted by muldrick

You'd have to cut a hole in that bezel so it can see the remote (IR).
Or leave the monitor always on. (If it has auto-on capabilities)

Or just tuck the IR receiver into one of the vents flanking the LCD.

FYI, what everyone is saying is that the buttons can be replaced 100% with the remote control, and most people just ditch the button board, although not all.

Take a browse through the completed projects forum to get some ideas, then break out a dremel and go to town (car) LOL

Suggestion may be to get a dash panel out of a junked car and work with that.

GL!

**nunz** · 05-17-2008, 11:47 PM

Thank you, greatwhite, muldrick, and quantum.

Using the remote in lieu of the buttons makes sense, plus it would result in a cleaner panel look. Yes, I should learn from completed projects.

Also, an identical panel from a junk yard sounds like a great idea, too, so that I can take time with the installation of an LCD panel from behind the factory cutout.