Relocating Radio to Dashboard Storage Bin

[patonator]

Hi All,

I'm contemplating replacing the stock radio with a new head unit running android, so I can run the likes of Torque/Spotify/SatNav etc through the one unit. I fancy the idea of relocating this up into the storage bin above the centre console so that it's easier to see directions etc (currently I can only see the left most ~50% of the radio past my knees in its current position).

It would obviously require rerouting some wiring and making/sourcing some kind of housing/bracket/thing in which to mount the HU.

I've looked around on the forum and Google but can't really see any examples. Closest I came to was someone who has a neat looking surround for some gauges:


Has anyone else done this before with a double din radio unit?

[M.R.]

Why not just use 7" (or smaller) android tablet/smart phone and install small amplifier where radio used to be? Lot easier install and cheaper. There are even some amplifiers that work with bluetooth so you don´t need any wiring to android device.

[jeffsimply]

Yep. Really like that.

Would be a lot of custom work, could then install a sub where the radio is currently  s:D s:D

[patonator]

I'd prefer using a specific head unit to a tablet. As they are designed for use in a car, they still have the likes of a thumb knob for volume control (easier to quickly adjust whilst driving than having to actially look where you are pointing on a touch screen). You can pick them up on eBay for just over £200, they have the din radio connections on the back (as well as 4ch aux out), you can integrate them with a steering control column, built in wifi and positionable gps sensor. You can easily plug in a reversing/dash cam and integrate DVR function if you want to.

I think the majority of the work would be in creating a secure housing for the unit to sit up top. I haven't had a proper look at the wiring harness, but I think it would just be a case of extending the wires to the stock radio so they reach up behind the dash. I've started having a go modeling a housing on the PC with the idea of getting it 3D printed, but depending on the volume of plastic required it could be too expensive and I might have to look down another avenue...