Cellular Ipad in-dash installation

[Cole T]

Hey all,

I installed an Ipad in the dash of a Honda Element I used to have and it was awesome. The only thing that didn't work well is I had no access to the head unit because it was stuffed behind the ipad. This time around, I am going to make room to have access to the head unit so I can still plug in an AUX cord and use the volume knob.

Obviously, with an iPad in the stock head unit location, it would be super awkward to use. I'll be using wood and fiberglass to angle the ipad up about 45 degrees. I have a 5-speed, and my hand is often resting on the shifter, so this should make it ergonomic to use.

On the Honda install, I 3D printed the frame to hold the ipad. This was super inconvenient because the ipad wasn't removable. I don't really plan to remove it often, but it will be nice to be able to take it out from time to time when route planning on long trips. This time, I'll be using a frame by Fifield fabrications which allows for easy removal of the ipad.

The head unit will go under the ipad, and I'm hoping the CB radio will fit underneath that.

This will be my first time with fiberglass so I have no idea what to expect. we will see how it goes!

 

[Cole T]

Pics!

Here are the beginning stages. I'm not great at remembering to take pictures.

Also if anyone has some pointers with fiberglass, PLEASEEEE help me out! haha

 

[Reinout]

Hey, I've done some fiberglass, but I've been following these two dudes on Youtube that are mating a 80s mini and a Celica GT4. In Episode 22 they're using something called Milliput to build up the edges.

I've used similar 2 component putties (plumbers putty) for non structural carbon fiber repair (space filler really). https://www.amazon.com/Milliput-Sup...ocphy=9033481&hvtargid=pla-406644921095&psc=1

Here's the video, it should be starting at the point where they do the forming. I think it could be a great and less messy way to do it: YouTube

 

[Dezert4Runner]

Take this as constructive criticism, but I’m doubting that you won’t have interference with the shifter with that iPad sticking out from the dash that far. I have a Ram Mount holding my phone and it comes out from the dash half as far and when I’m in first gear my hand is almost touching the phone/ Ram mount. Have you mocked it up and gone through the gears?

 

[Cole T]

Hey, I've done some fiberglass, but I've been following these two dudes on Youtube that are mating a 80s mini and a Celica GT4. In Episode 22 they're using something called Milliput to build up the edges.

I've used similar 2 component putties (plumbers putty) for non structural carbon fiber repair (space filler really). https://www.amazon.com/Milliput-Sup...ocphy=9033481&hvtargid=pla-406644921095&psc=1

Here's the video, it should be starting at the point where they do the forming. I think it could be a great and less messy way to do it: YouTube

Damn, Now I'm debating not using fiberglass at all and just trying that stuff or Bondo. Just to smooth over the corners as they did. Thanks a bunch for this!

 

[Cole T]

Take this as constructive criticism, but I’m doubting that you won’t have interference with the shifter with that iPad sticking out from the dash that far. I have a Ram Mount holding my phone and it comes out from the dash half as far and when I’m in first gear my hand is almost touching the phone/ Ram mount. Have you mocked it up and gone through the gears?

Huh, I'm surprised that yours is so close. I've mocked it up by holding the ipad there and seeing that there is still plenty of room. However, I haven't confirmed if the bulk of the frame will be too much. Before I continue I'm going to install it to confirm. I'll let you know!

 

[Dezert4Runner]

Huh, I'm surprised that yours is so close. I've mocked it up by holding the ipad there and seeing that there is still plenty of room. However, I haven't confirmed if the bulk of the frame will be too much. Before I continue I'm going to install it to confirm. I'll let you know!

My phone comes up and out from the radio location right where the hand and shift knob meet the mount, and yours actually comes down and out so you might be avoiding the bulkiest spot which is the shift knob and have enough clearance. It just looks like it sticks out far so I’d definitely mock it up and check clearances before putting any more work into it.

 

[Cole T]

I'm glad I test fit it!

Thanks for prompting me to check the fitment! The ipad itself is fine, even with the play in the synchros. However, the 3D printed piece where I had been planning on putting the single din head unit would have gotten in the way. I moved it back 1.5" from its original spot and now it will clear.

 

[JZiggy]

Have you considered a short shifter?

Does the 4WD lever go into 4LO without interference?

 

[Reinout]

I can't wait to see what this ends up looking like. Keep us up-to-date.

 

[Hepar]

This will be my first time with fiberglass so I have no idea what to expect. we will see how it goes!

Expect to be itchy!

 

[Coward]

I like where your headed but it looks like a tight fit. I still want someone to take this idea and clean it up. Re-use the factory vents and if possible mount them vertical on either side of the double din instead of the gauge pod on the side.

 

[sogoood]

damn, thats ugly. Ill wait for final pics. good luck brother

 

[Cole T]

damn, thats ugly. Ill wait for final pics. good luck brother

HAHA, once I confirm that everything seems to fit, Ill be cleaning it up with sandpaper and Bondo. as long as its clean, I don't really care if it's bulky.

 

[Cole T]

I like where your headed but it looks like a tight fit. I still want someone to take this idea and clean it up. Re-use the factory vents and if possible mount them vertical on either side of the double din instead of the gauge pod on the side.

That actually looks really good! seems like a lot of work to relocate the vents though. Also, I learned from the element that it's impossible to use an ipad without your wrist being able to lean on something. Therefore, the shifter should be perfect.