2002 Ford Explorer - what can I fit?

**EMT2B** · 09-17-2005, 09:24 AM

OK, i searched the forums, and didn't see anything that looked like an answer.

I have a 2002 Ford Explorer (which has the same size stereo as my '97 Ranger did, my buddy's '02 ranger, and my Mom's '97 explorer), which looks like a double DIN (maybe??)

I want to retain an AM/FM, since i have sirius... this means replacing the head unit with the LCD isn't an option.... BUT i had an idea-

if i were to get a sirius ready single DIN head unit, would i be able to fit one of those retractable LCDs in the hole above the new HU?

The main goal here isn't necessarily an MP3 player, but more of an in-dash navigation system, and an in-car manner of programming my 2-way equipment. Being able to pipe MP3s into my stereo is just an added benefit.

I have a single DIN head unit pretty much chosen... i found a couple with are SIRIUS ready (need to check with the Sirius folks to see if i can switch my subscription from one pice of equipment to another....either that, or activate a second piece....but that's my problem) AND have auxillary inputs.

This started out as a simple project to add a computer to the truck for a GPS display... but looks like it's going to get expensive....

Thanks!

**DarquePervert** · 09-17-2005, 09:57 AM

Originally Posted by EMT2B

if i were to get a sirius ready single DIN head unit, would i be able to fit one of those retractable LCDs in the hole above the new HU?

I'm reasonable certain that your Explorer's stereo is double-DIN. That would mean you could fit two DIN-sized devices in the dash.

This started out as a simple project to add a computer to the truck for a GPS display... but looks like it's going to get expensive....

You are 100% correct.

**EMT2B** · 09-17-2005, 10:08 AM

sweeeet....

time to start planning and buying parts....

just another project to cost me more money...

**gareva1** · 11-27-2005, 10:18 PM

have you gotten any further on this? I have a friend that has asked me to help him place a screen on his 02 explorer, and I'm looking for ideas; its a different dash layout from the 01s and the sporttracks...unfortunately, he wants to have a lilli 7" non-foldout rather than a din foldout and a din HU...this is gonna suck.

**DarquePervert** · 11-28-2005, 08:17 AM

If you're having that much trouble finiding a location for your screen just get one of these or one of these and be done with it.

Seriously. Whoever owns the ride needs to decide where they want it. They're the ones who are going to be sitting behind that steering wheel and will have to utilize the screen.

**gareva1** · 11-28-2005, 10:57 AM

Originally Posted by DarquePervert

If you're having that much trouble finiding a location for your screen just get one of these or one of these and be done with it.

Seriously. Whoever owns the ride needs to decide where they want it. They're the ones who are going to be sitting behind that steering wheel and will have to utilize the screen.

look, I posted with the needs of the situation, and noted that he already decided that he did not want the foldout. I understand that the foldout is the way to go, but he already has his mind made up. If all you have are responses that clearly dont fit the need, dont bother posting.

**DarquePervert** · 11-28-2005, 08:31 PM

Originally Posted by gareva1

look, I posted with the needs of the situation, and noted that he already decided that he did not want the foldout. I understand that the foldout is the way to go, but he already has his mind made up. If all you have are responses that clearly dont fit the need, dont bother posting.

Look....
My statement stands as is. I'm sorry that you (or your friend, in this case) are either incapable of or unwilling to making your own decisions on such things. But ultimately the decision is his.

I could easily tell you that you could get a mount for the screen that attaches to an HVAC vent that would put it at eye level and within arm's reach. But if you don't like it, you don't like it and are going to do your own thing ANYWAY.

Really, placing a screen in your ride is a matter of personal taste. I prefer the fold-outs, since I want to be able to remove my setup completely and transplant it into another vehicle. There are other options out there like goosenecks, flip-down monitors or molding it permanently into the dash.

At this point, shove it up your *** for all I care. You're just being a stubborn jack-*** by refusing to think out of the box. That's something I can't help you with.

**gareva1** · 11-28-2005, 08:46 PM

Originally Posted by DarquePervert

Look....
My statement stands as is. I'm sorry that you (or your friend, in this case) are either incapable of or unwilling to making your own decisions on such things. But ultimately the decision is his.

Right you are, the decision is his, and he has decided the he doesnt want a foldout screen or an overhead, but rather a molded in-dash install; from the beginning this was the understanding, and you accepted, yet failed to grasp it when offering suggestions.

Originally Posted by DarquePervert

I could easily tell you that you could get a mount for the screen that attaches to an HVAC vent that would put it at eye level and within arm's reach. But if you don't like it, you don't like it and are going to do your own thing ANYWAY.

Really, placing a screen in your ride is a matter of personal taste. I prefer the fold-outs, since I want to be able to remove my setup completely and transplant it into another vehicle. There are other options out there like goosenecks, flip-down monitors or molding it permanently into the dash.

At this point, shove it up your *** for all I care. You're just being a stubborn jack-*** by refusing to think out of the box. That's something I can't help you with.

Its not a matter of refusing to think outside of the box; when you are given a situation where there are MUST HAVES (the flush molded dash install in this case), you MUST honor them, as they are a requirement, not an option. We can go back and forth all day long over why he should consider a fold out or a removable setup, but at the end of the day, THATS NOT WHAT HE WANTS! If rejecting your suggestions because they dont match up with the needs is being a stubborn jack-***, then so be it.

I posted here in hopes of the original poster moving further along, and maybe figuring out a way to mold the screen in; all I got was you.

Its funny how people get so irate so quickly on forums; either that, or you're just an *******.

**Matrix_24** · 11-28-2005, 10:08 PM

My wife has a 2002 Explorer an I have been trying to get her to let me put a car pc in. I want to do a custom piece that mounts into the change tray/junk area and is on a 45 degree angle. I will get her to do it eventually.

**DarquePervert** · 11-28-2005, 10:22 PM

Originally Posted by gareva1

Right you are, the decision is his, and he has decided the he doesnt want a foldout screen or an overhead, but rather a molded in-dash install; from the beginning this was the understanding, and you accepted, yet failed to grasp it when offering suggestions.

Wrong-ola, kemo sabe.
You merely stated that he didn't want a flip-out. There was no mention of not wanting a roof-mount screen OR the desire to have it molded into the dash.
Yes, I missed the part about your pal not wanting the in-dash screen, but the other option presented was never brought into question until after I posed it as a possibility.

Its funny how people get so irate so quickly on forums; either that, or you're just an *******.

Perhaps. But I'm not telling.

You also seem to think I'm irate, which I'm not. I'm just blunt and to the point and not afraid to share my opinions, which are often ill-received.

I still think that you need to consult with your friend for the placement of the screen, since he's the one that's going to drive the vehicle and use the monitor. If he wants it in some difficult-to-fabricate location, then you've certainly got your work cut out for you.

As far as what will fit, 7" widescreen monitors pretty much fill up a double-DIN space. If there's a little extra vertical space, an 8" 4:3 will fit nicely, as well as leave less empty dash area. I hope it helps.
Happy fabricating.