2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee Worklog

Error23 · 02-19-2008, 04:03 PM

First thread of my worklog. Will upload pictures when i take them

So far, i have my computer (Aopen MiniDuo) loaded with a stripped down version of windows XP SP2 (used nlite). Front end software as of now (still in testing phase) includes frodoplayer and neocarmediacenter. I also have my DC-DC power supply in. I went with the M3-ATX. Not sure yet if it will work with my PC. I have ordered a Lilliput 8" touch screen. I have also ordered an extra radio bezel to cut up and install the monitor. Hopefully both will be in next week and i can get started on the fab. Any suggestions in this area will be greatly appreciated (i.e. bondo, fillers, paint, etc.). This will be my first attempt at fabrication. Thats all for now. I will post again when i get some more work done and/or pics.

later...

Error23 · 02-19-2008, 05:58 PM

OK, so just found out that my M3-ATX will not work. I just ordered the Aopen power pack and Carnetix. So, if anyone is interested in the M3-ATX that i apparently wasted my money on, PM me.

later...

Bivio · 02-19-2008, 11:33 PM

I cant wait to see another install on a WJ, where do you plan on mounting the hardware? Got a couple of tips for you, 1) the 8" lilliput, i had to cut a little spot out of the vents on the top of the screen in order for the screen case to sit where i wanted it to in the dash, and the bottom of the bezel is VERY thin when you fit the screen case in it. 2) you asked about tips for the fabrication, im no expert i just learned from the howto section of the fabrication subforum, but i was able to grab 99% of the stuff i needed from wal-mart. bondoglass, the cream hardener, spot/glaze putty, filler primer and sandpaper all the way from 60 to 600 grit everything, except the paint. good luck and happy carputering.

Error23 · 02-20-2008, 01:35 PM

Thanks for the tips, i can't wait for the parts to get in so i can get started. I initially planned on putting all of the hardware in the armrest. I know there is plenty of room there to put just about anything that i want. But, depending on how well (or how terrible. lol) i am at fabrication, i might look into mounting the computer where the seat warmer buttons and cubby hole are located. The computer i am using has a slot load DVD drive, and i would love for that to be accessible without lifting the armrest. I'll keep updating and have pics soon..

later...

Error23 · 02-24-2008, 02:03 PM

Well, i'm hoping that the rest of the things i need for my install will be in tomorrow or the next day. So, I though i would post some before pics:

The original stock radio

Original dash with after market Dual DVD player i installed 6 months ago

Memphis Audio 12" M1 Sub. Eventually i plan to build a custom box

SPL 2400 watt amp and SPL 2 farad cap

The old trusty work table

(one of 3.. lol)

Error23 · 02-25-2008, 04:48 PM

I got most of the parts i have been waiting on today (pics below) Still waiting on the HD radio, and the bezel (which i really to get started on the fabrication

)

Aopen MiniDuo

Carnetix power supply

Aopen PowerPak

Lilliput Monitor

Monitor in Action

MediaCar.. Not sure if this is the front end i will settle on or not
Still testing a few more front ends.

Error23 · 02-27-2008, 02:01 PM

bezel just came in today. also received my HD radio. Still waiting on the PC kit for the radio though. It will probably be in next week. Anyway, now that the bezel has arrived, I'll start the fab work this evening. I will post pics of the progress.

Error23 · 02-27-2008, 07:50 PM

So far so good. Chopped the bezel up and put epoxy around the bottom for added strength. waiting for it to dry, then more cutting and epoxy the the face of the monitor on

Faceplate disasembled from monitor

How is this going in there ? LOL

Used Dremel to cut out the inside

CherokeeChief · 02-28-2008, 07:37 AM

Good job! But..take a look here:

http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/fabr...-killer-3.html

You can save the air ducts!

Error23 · 02-28-2008, 08:48 AM

How did you do that ? Is that a 7" screen ?

CherokeeChief · 02-28-2008, 11:43 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by Error23

How did you do that ? Is that a 7" screen ?

Yes it is a 7" touch screen... if you will take your time working with VTR. As you can see I put a 2 din 7" all in one radio in my WJ saving the air ducts.

Error23 · 02-28-2008, 03:16 PM

I don't think there is any way to put my 8" in and be able to save the ducts. If you have some suggestions, i am all ears.. thanks

wjc04wrx · 02-28-2008, 03:49 PM

Doesn't look possible, u should have gone with a 7" screen.

Error23 · 02-28-2008, 10:16 PM

I really wanted the 8" I don't mind losing the vents....

Error23 · 02-29-2008, 01:30 PM

My only concern is the best way to "cap" them off.. Any suggestions ? I Saw on a thread where someone used "Great Stuff" foam to make a riser for their computer. I wonder if that might be an option to seal up the vents ? And if so, how easily is it removed if i wanted to take it back to factory and open them up again ?