Hello fellas/ladies,

I was wondering for those of you who have swapped your factory decks to an aftermarket, was there any cutting or modifications required with the install? I looked through some of the treads and read that some indivduals cut and other didn't. I just bought a Kenwood DNX8120 deck with Navigation, Bluetooth, and all that jazz. It’s going in my 2010 Ram and I just wanted a heads up on what to expect when the install time comes. Also, how difficult was it to install SWI-Jack to keep the factory steering wheel controls? Thanks guys for the time and responses.

 

I find it hard to believe that no one can assist me with this topic. People please provide me some insight on this people.

 

I installed a pioneer 4200 in my 2010. I had to cut the lower part of the metal bracket under the radio for it to fit. As for the steering wheel controls, they were fairly easy to set up. just read over the instructions a couple of times to get familiar with how to set the buttons.

 

Thanks for the reply. Did you cut the metal because the double din was too big to fit? What did you use to cut the metal?

 

I have a Alpine W900 installed in my 2010 I don't remember having to cut anything to fit it. Steering wheel controls work great with this kit it even changes songs over blue tooth!
here is a link to a picture of my dash on a trip up to mount baker
https://picasaweb.google.com/jzphoto...40542167701570

 

I had to cut mine because the radio wouldn't fit. I think some radios will fit without cutting the dash. I cut mine with a sawzall, but you can cut it with a dremel tool.

 

Thanks for the reply guys. I am a little apprehensive about this install. I got a few things that will be going in such as a Sirius radio tuner, the steering wheel control adapter, and a reverse camera. This would be the first time I ever installed a radio but have done quite a bit of sub/amp work.

 

So Sorry Guys!!!!!! I just talked to my installer and he told me he did cut a huge!! sheet metal chunk out. I had no idea he had to because he never told me. My mistake

 

Lil jo, my guess is that it would probably depend on the brand and model. They're not all the same size and shape. Do some research for that particular brand and model and you might figure it out. Otherwise, just start the install and figure it out on your own. It's not going to be any kind of heavy modification. If you have to cut anything it will be a small piece so I'm sure it's nothing you wouldn't be able to handle in about 10 minutes of extra work. Unless someone installed that exact model, the advice isn't going to be any good to you anyway.

 

Ladies & Gents,

I have some awesome news to share with you all. I installed my radio on Friday and did some cleanup work and touchups on it Sat & today. All in all it was a learning experience. I did have to cut some plastic and metal from the dash opening. I ran into a few problems and this was due to the fact that I failed to read the instructions. The rear view camera will be installed when it comes in which more than likely may be tomorrow. Below is everything that I installed and am damn proud of it. If anyone has questions about it, let me know.

Kenwood DNX8120
Kenwood iPod to USB cable
Nav antenna
Radio Antenna
Double din kit
Bluetooth Mic
PAC C2R-CHY4 Radio Interface
PAC Steering wheel control
Sirius Car Tuner
Sirius Antenna Adapter
Rearview camera to come!!!