2006 Chevy Avalanche Laptop Carputer Install

kuo · 12-20-2007, 09:44 AM

parts:
dell inspiron 700m laptop
jotto arm
xenarc 700tsv
carnetix p1900
parrot 3200ls hands free bluetooth

this install will have the laptop mounted to the jotto arm between the two front seats. the screen will be molded into the dash in place of the stock stereo. the stereo will be moved to the lower dash and replace the storage pocket. i will have to fabricate a new bezel for the stereo after relocating it.

stock dash:

fabrication: i started with a paper pattern of the opening and cut a sheet of aluminum and bent it to shape.

using some balsa wood i made a frame for the opening and attached it to the metal with epoxy putty.

i forgot to get a picture of the next step which was to cover entire thing with epoxy putty and sand it smooth. the epoxy putty i used had some harder pieces in it so the sanded surface was not completely smooth. the little chunks caused slightly raised spots all over. i ended up having to use several coats of sandable fillable primer. paint, dry, sand lightly, repeat, repeat, repeat... next time i'm getting loctite brand epoxy putty. i should have been done with this step two days ago, but as of right now, the next to last coat (i hope) of primer is drying. more to come.

slinkytoy · 12-21-2007, 09:25 PM

We have the same dash and center console. Here is what i did to my truck. Just follow the link to check it out. You may or may not get some ideas from it.

kuo · 01-03-2008, 03:28 PM

wow. that's quite an installation. do you have any suggestions on where to get replacement interior parts? i have been hesitant to do a lot of cutting since i don't have replacement parts to go back to stock if needed. i'm also looking into getting a good radar detector. i haven't had a speeding ticket in 3 years and then the past few months i get 2 of them.

kuo · 01-03-2008, 04:05 PM

more pics.

jotto arm

stereo bezel completed

i just stuck the screen behind the dash for now with some double sided tape. i will do something with this in the near future. i am thinking about recessing the screen in just a little bit and angle straight back instead of towards the driver like it is now.

laptop mounted on the jotto arm with industrial strength velcro. i wrapped the wires in builders tape because that's all i had at the house and we were about to go on a trip with the avalanche. i have since purchased a pack of zip ties.

it's not 100% complete but it's in and functional. i have a powermate i need to mount somewhere. i have to find a place for a slot loading dvd drive. i wanted to put into the bezel i made but the only space for it is on the curved part. i also need to find a place for the two lighter/power sockets that were originally in the lower pocket area.

slinkytoy · 01-03-2008, 10:03 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by kuo

wow. that's quite an installation. do you have any suggestions on where to get replacement interior parts? i have been hesitant to do a lot of cutting since i don't have replacement parts to go back to stock if needed. i'm also looking into getting a good radar detector. i haven't had a speeding ticket in 3 years and then the past few months i get 2 of them.

Thanks. Check out this web site. http://www.lkqonline.com my buddy that is helping me on my install works for these guys. I got all of my replacement parts for my truck from them. Here is there ebay site also. http://stores.eBay.com/lkqonline
As far as radar dectectors got i think that escort is hands down the best. Here is a link to the system that I'm using http://www.escortradar.com/srx.htm. If you ae interested in getting one of these let me know i can get a price for yea. I have been using this system for the past 5 years and is has saved my **s many times.