Thread: 2002 Acura RSX Install - Pistolen08

I originally bought an amp from Best Buy (Alpine MRP-T220) for testing purposes. I planned on returning it and buying a 4 channel amp later (It was $140). I saw the same amp in the 4 channel version here for $100 shipped from LaxPlayer8513. I paid him on 12/24 of last year, and I still haven't received it (exactly a month). Apparently he had a family emergency and had to go out of town. I understand this, but I have waited long enough. He still wont reply to my emails, or to the paypal dispute. I am trying to get him to next day air it to me, so I can at least listen to music on my trip (even though the lcd wont be ready).

Just got back from the Florida meet. Had some good times, and now have some good ideas. I also received my amp and xm tuner. Here's my current to-do list:

• Receive/install lcd controller board (Tuesday/Wednesday)
• Build enclosure (Weekend)
• Power switch turn on (Next week)
• Install Powermate through door and change led color to red (Next week)
• Install backup camera (Eventually)
• FM broadcasting station (A week or 2)
  

And here is the list of possible future projects:

• Some sort of TV receiver + antenna [Eventually]
• Steering wheel controls (Eventually)
• OBDII (Eventually)
• Bluetooth phone connectivity (Eventually)
• Sub amp and subwoofer (Eventually.. maybe)

I'll update in the next few days.

Originally Posted by Pistolen08

Steering wheel controls (Eventually)

Do you have any ideas on this? I would like to add them too. I haven't seen anything that would look good.

My mom has an '01 MDX, and it looks like the steering wheel controls would fit for my RSX. I was going to take a better look and measure to make sure. I also noticed that the RSX steering wheel already has the mounting location for the buttons. Here is a picture of the MDX steering wheel controls I was looking at using:

I started working on the enclosure box which will house the computer, amp, etc... The dimensions are 39" x 14" x 5" and I built it out of 1/2" plywood. After much sanding/sawing/screwing it all started to come together (very nicely I might add). I put a small gromit in the back to wire all the cables through, and the lid is on a hinge with a latch where I can lock it. I still need to finish the lid (add fans and cold cathodes) and then carpet the entire thing (I got the carpet at home depot). I also set up the terminal switch for all my 12V wiring. Here is a mockup picture with all the components for fitting:

Here is a quick photoshop sketch to show how I will setup the lid. I chose red since all my interior lights and guages are red. The cold cathodes will synch with the music and will behind a lexan window. I plan to use an acura logo as a fan grill for my exhaust fan, and I will place the razer led on the top so it can shine down on the box in a fan shape. I hope it will turn out as I plan.

Update:

I finished installing the power button (Link), and ran the griffin powermate through the door gromit. (pain in the ***)

Since the button LED ring takes 1.85V input, I used 440 ohm resistor from the 12V DV source. I have to admit, it looks awesome, and completely matches my interior. I don't have seat warmers, so there was a blank button cover in the dash. I drilled a hole through the middle, and put the button through that. I will post some pictures of it when I get home.

All that is left to do is:

• Carpet the computer enclosure
• Power Supply solution
• Dremel holes for fans/cold cathodes in enclosure lid
• Fabricate Acura emblem as fan grill

Out of curiosity why did you mount your powermate in the door. Or did you mount it somewhere else like the exterior?
I mounted mine on the shelf where the back seatbelt comes out and I get perfect reception.