Unique, hidden XM/GPS antenna install.

Rivalsock · 2008-10-11T19:58:23+00:00

Unique, hidden XM/GPS antenna install (picture heavy) About 2 years ago I bought the Pioneer Avic-Z1 unit for for 05 4Runner. At the time my landlord was pretty strict about working on your vehicle in the parking lot so I forced to have a shop install it. The install was unimpressive (was told Illumination wire was not compatible, and that the VSS wire was impossible to get to in my vehicle --- needless to say I got a full refund when I showed them they were wrong on both accounts) and the XM and GPS antennas were installed on the top corners right above the windshield. While it didn't look the best it did work so I didn't worry too much about it, until I noticed one of the wires was starting to crack and would eventually fail if left to deal with the weather and high wind it recieves right there so I decided to move the antennas to somewhere more protected - I wanted to move them UNDER the roof-rack end covers. I had tested the antennas here for a few days to make sure there was no problem with signal reception. The GPS always saw its full complement of satellites and the XM signal remained 'Strong' or 'Very Strong'. The bonus is the antennas and wires are completely hidden from view so it is not obvious from the outside that there is anything extra installed in the truck. Didn't dawn on me to take pictures until partway into the install so here is what I have: GPS antenna wire comes out of the driver side through this grommet: