Suggested mounting locations?

[wkparker]

I'm getting ready to install an OmniFi MP3 player in my new '05 SR5. The display for this deice is a DIN-sized unit that controls the functions and displays title/track/ID3 info, etc.

I want to keep the install as "stealth" as possible, so I'm looking for a mounting location for the display that keeps it easily accessible but hidden when I don't need it. I'm thinking of mounting it inside the storage compartment under the HVAC controls, but this will take a little surgery to make it fit.

Has anyone mounted something similar in their rig? Any suggestions appreciated!

 

[davisc23]

I installed an empeg mp3 player (DIN sized) into the center console. I cut out an opening in the armrest and mounted the unit vertically. It fit almost perfectly and can be hidden when you close the little flip out tray. Here's a link to the thread with pictures:

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/showthread.php?s=&threadid=5279

 

[wkparker]

Very nice! Reading the thread, it sounds like you cut a hole in the armrest for the unit to show through, correct? The OmniFi has a faceplate that is mounted separately from the hard drive, but I might be able to squeeze it into the same spot and rout the wires under the armrest. Do you find that position hard to see while driving?

 

[atomic punk]

Awesome install.

How did you get the display "TOYOTA"?

Is that an MP3/CD player or a hard drive MP3 player? If so to the latter, how big is the memory?

 

[davisc23]

Yeah, I cut a whole out in the armrest using a dremel. It's not that easy to see while driving. You obviously have to take your eyes off the road for a second, but if you glance down you can see it fine.

The mp3 player is an "empeg" 20GB hard drive based player. I bought one before they stopped making them a couple years ago. It runs on linux so it's totally customizable (that's how I got the TOYOTA bootup logo to show up) and uses normal laptop hard drives for storage. It's really cool, I wish they still made them.

 

[wkparker]

Thanks. I tested the OmniFi display in that location, but it's a bit too wide - I would have to cut away the raised ridges on the side, which is a little more agressive than I want to get. I also tested the space above the map lights and the sunglass holder, but I think the console storage spot is going to work best. I'll have to cut a hole in the back of it and trim the back of the panel, but it will be hidden when the panel is closed. Weekend fun!