Tablet mount over head unit

[p_j_o]

OK folks, first let me clarify what I am trying to do...

I want to mount a 7-8" tablet over the exiting head unit to use as the on-board navigation & music system. The idea being that it is easy to remove and doesn't require me to remove any existing system.

Yes, Ram-Mounts are awesome - I have 3 already installed in the truck but in this instance it doesn't work. Yes, I have tried in dash CD holders such as Mountek but they sit a good 4-5 inch out and bounce quite a lot on semi-rough roads...

Anyone come-up-with/purchase/find any other type of option?

pjo

 

[Antman]

OK folks, first let me clarify what I am trying to do...

I want to mount a 7-8" tablet over the exiting head unit to use as the on-board navigation & music system. The idea being that it is easy to remove and doesn't require me to remove any existing system.

Yes, Ram-Mounts are awesome - I have 3 already installed in the truck but in this instance it doesn't work. Yes, I have tried in dash CD holders such as Mountek but they sit a good 4-5 inch out and bounce quite a lot on semi-rough roads...

Anyone come-up-with/purchase/find any other type of option?

pjo

Jangofirhire did it- wasn't cheap or easy.

Start here and the build progresses from there...

EDIT- Just read your post again- oh well- this is still super cool!!

 

[p_j_o]

Thanks Antman, but that is a similar idea that I have seen lots of... but I want something non-permanent.

The way the tech industry moves building a custom cradle for one unit is NOT a smart idea, especially with a lifespan of under 2 years on these things!

pjo

 

[RockyMtnHigh]

Subscribed.....Im wanting to do this as well. Are you using a galaxy or ipad? Which interface do you plan on using for audio/nav ?

 

[dgirouard39]

https://youtu.be/dHYhZkkIjLMThis was a while ago but I did a full iPad swap in my vw jetta.
It's not all its cracked up to be. Lots after switching back and fourth

 

[eeguy]

OK folks, first let me clarify what I am trying to do...

I want to mount a 7-8" tablet over the exiting head unit to use as the on-board navigation & music system. The idea being that it is easy to remove and doesn't require me to remove any existing system.

Yes, Ram-Mounts are awesome - I have 3 already installed in the truck but in this instance it doesn't work. Yes, I have tried in dash CD holders such as Mountek but they sit a good 4-5 inch out and bounce quite a lot on semi-rough roads...

Anyone come-up-with/purchase/find any other type of option?

pjo

I'd at least take a look at swapping the stock system out for an aftermarket android head unit...they can be had for a pretty reasonable price.

 

[p_j_o]

RockyMtnHigh, I am not married to any one platform... I swap between an iPad Mini, Tab4 7.0 and a Surface Pro3 depending on which mount I am using :thumb3:

For this setup I am trying to utilize the Tab4 7.0, it is probably the best dimensional fit of the 3 - I don't want it looking like someone glued a giant iPad to my truck after all :redbrick:

On the Tab4 I am running either Navigon, Google Maps or BackCountry Navigator Pro depending on where I am going and if I have data. As for Music/Entertainment it's either Plex accessing my home collection or Google Music or Slacker Radio for online streaming.

I'll take a picture of the current setup and post tomorrow

pjo

 

[p_j_o]

https://youtu.be/dHYhZkkIjLMThis was a while ago but I did a full iPad swap in my vw jetta.
It's not all its cracked up to be. Lots after switching back and fourth

Yup seen a few of these done in the past in person - not a fan of pigeon holing myself into one make/model/version of a specific tablet, cause after all the manufacturers never change the dimensions or connecting cables right? :redbrick:

 

[p_j_o]

I'd at least take a look at swapping the stock system out for an aftermarket android head unit...they can be had for a pretty reasonable price.

Yup, actually had one in my Taco... not doin' that again! Curse of the Android ecosystem s that everyone and their dog can modify it as they like - I'd prefer pure Android if possible, hopefully there will be a Nexus 7 Gen2 announced in May.

pjo

 

[chumaniel]

it's either Plex accessing my home collection or Google Music or Slacker Radio for online streaming.

 

[jaboki]

I think you are looking for something like this by [MENTION=93894]J-BlickPhoto[/MENTION]: http://www.toyota-4runner.org/5th-gen-t4rs/158462-j-blickphoto-thread-72.html#post2230271

Look at first picture.

 

[phillyd2]

This RAM Mount is as solid as it can be. And all can be removed in 2 seconds.

 

[flyinhawaiian01]

One other option if you change your mind about swapping out the head unit, several new aftermarket units have decent android/apple connectivity. Rather than having a tablet in the vehicle, just use your phone and connect either wirelessly (Kenwood has wireless touchscreen connectivity), or wired (Pioneer uses an MHL dongle for connectivity) if you don't mind having your phone plugged in while using it.

They are still a bit clunky when you hop in and tie your phone to the head unit, but once that's done, all is good.

Been playing around with my Pioneer AVIC 8100 and my Galaxy S5, it actually works well for Backcountry Nav Pro, Copilot, Showbox and Torque, as well as a lot of other apps. I think if I were to re-do it though, I would go with the Kenwood so its completely wireless.

Installing a head unit in the 4runner is actually quite simple with the correct adapter cables. If you're handy with hand tools, you can have it completed within an hour. Most everything on the dash just snaps together like an old Snap-Tite model from the 80's, and the deck just slides out after you remove 4 10mm bolts. Unplug deck, plug adapters into wiring in vehicle, plug new deck in, screw it down and snap it all back together.

 

[p_j_o]

I think you are looking for something like this by [MENTION=93894]J-BlickPhoto[/MENTION]: http://www.toyota-4runner.org/5th-gen-t4rs/158462-j-blickphoto-thread-72.html#post2230271

Look at first picture.

That is pretty much what I am looking for! [MENTION=93894]J-BlickPhoto[/MENTION] what's your setup?
BTW, like I said here is my setup... no stranger to Ram-Mounts! There is 4 in that picture plus another one on the passenger side A-Pillar for the GoPro...

 

[tykkor]

This RAM Mount is as solid as it can be. And all can be removed in 2 seconds.

Which mount is that?

 

[p_j_o]

Looks similar to mine so... I'd say it is an X-Grip series from Ram-Mount - am I right [MENTION=6163]phillyd2[/MENTION]?

pjo

 

[phillyd2]

Which mount is that?

All of the part numbers are listed in my build thread. But yes, X-Grip series from Ram-Mount.

 

[grc9600]

this is the mount I made for my jeep using an otterbox and a flat piece of metal bent to fit, look up soundman ca on you tube he makes kits for iPad and some galaxy tabs.

 

[decker1]

I personally would do an iPod touch. The screen size is roughly the same as the "actual" screen of our stock head units. I have an idea I want to execute invoking hanging an iPod touch from the cd tray. Possibly 3d printed flat plastic L brackets to safely hang the iPod from the CD slit. Just another dam thing to do with a 3d printer. Thoughts anyone?

 

[p_j_o]

this is the mount I made for my jeep using an otterbox and a flat piece of metal bent to fit, look up soundman ca on you tube he makes kits for iPad and some galaxy tabs.

Interesting grc9600, though that would get a ticket here from the local police for all sorts of violations :frusty:

I personally would do an iPod touch. The screen size is roughly the same as the "actual" screen of our stock head units. I have an idea I want to execute invoking hanging an iPod touch from the cd tray. Possibly 3d printed flat plastic L brackets to safely hang the iPod from the CD slit. Just another dam thing to do with a 3d printer. Thoughts anyone?

I like that idea decker1. That's actually the reason why I have a Samsung Tab4 7.0, it's only slightly bigger than the screen on mine. The only issue I see is any "influence" on it's vertical position :dancin:

pjo