Mercedes navigation system install in half hour, direct replacement of factory radio [Archive]

bobcat

01-21-2005, 12:50 AM

Thanks to detroit202, I have installed my navigation system
in under 30 minutes. As I have written before, I installed and
uninstalled a Pioneer all-in-one unit, and partially tried a Kenwood
unit.

I finally decided on the Harman/Kardon Traffic Pro. Thanks to pnsji
I was able to buy the $1499 unit for only $379. (not a typo, it's
three hundred and seventy-nine dollars, or more than $1000 off)
http://www.crutchfield.com/S-eI0Yqb6i3w4/cgi-bin/ProdView.asp?g=182350&I=108TPRO

I must say I love the unit very much. It is just as accurate as the
Lexus factory DVD navigation system on my other car, with the
except of not having an on-screen map. In fact, it re-calculates
missed turns faster than the Lexus system when I deliberately
make a wrong turn(or get out from the wrong freeway exit)

The install couldn't be simpler. The MB factory radio connector
plugs right into the back. All I had to do was to plug in the tiny
GPS antenna and stick it with velcro on the dash. In addition,
I tapped into the reverse light wire which is located next to the
gear-shift. I did hook up my cell phone's mute wire so the radio
will mute during phone calls. Not hard to do, since I had phone
mute wire hooked up to the original MB factory radio anyway.

Total install time from start to finish was 30 minutes!

After the install, I inserted the navigation CD. It comes with two,
East USA and West USA. I used East USA CD. GPS calibration and
road calibration took about 10 minutes and 2 miles of driving
around the neighborhood.

Entering destionation was simple with the rotary knob and the
predictive alphabet entry.

The navigation guidance voice can either be male or female,
Brisitish, American, German, French, and Spanish.

The best feature is the "factory-look" of the system. No flip-out
LCD screens. The "Mercedes-Benz" logo is also a plus.

I also bought a Becker/Porsche 6-CD changer and wiring harness.
It works great with the headunit. I plan to intall it in the glove
box this weekend. It fits, but I have to drill a couple of holes
in the rear of the glove box for the harness connector to go
through.

I'll write up a full review if anyone cares to hear about it. Let me
know. In the mean times, enjoy these pictures... Sorry about
the graffiti.. didn't want these people to end up on Ebay auctions.
:D
Also, the picture quality is bad. It's 21 degrees outside and not
much warmer in my garage... Will take better pics of the GPS
antenna and the headunit later. :)

bobcat :)

http://img139.exs.cx/img139/8306/1119pi.jpg
http://img139.exs.cx/img139/2036/2222jg.jpg
http://img139.exs.cx/img139/7029/3337tm.jpg
http://img139.exs.cx/img139/1571/4446eb.jpg
http://img139.exs.cx/img139/3460/5552wz.jpg

KenzBenz

01-21-2005, 01:06 AM

very nice! i kinda want one now, how did it come with the mercedes benz logo???

bobcat

01-21-2005, 01:23 AM

Originally posted by KenzBenz
very nice! i kinda want one now, how did it come with the mercedes benz logo???

sorry... it's a trade secret... they'll have to kill me if I tell you....

JUST KIDDING!!!

If you recall, Mercedes-Benz dealers sell a one-CD in-dash
headunit. It has the exact same faceplate frame as this
Traffic Pro navigation unit. Not surprising, since both are
made by Becker of Germany. So it was simply a matter of
swapping out the plastic frame with one that says "Mercedes-
Benz".............. :D

Crutchfield has one or two left as of last night. With 30-day
return and free shipping(both ways), you may want to grab one.
Note: this is not an endorsement of Crutchfield. There are also
a couple of other places that still carry it, for a little more money.

bobcat :)

mbsickness

01-21-2005, 07:30 AM

Just got off the phone with Crutchfield and they are completely out. Damn...one day too late.:(

bobcat

01-21-2005, 08:26 AM

Originally posted by mbsickness
Just got off the phone with Crutchfield and they are completely out. Damn...one day too late.:(

I just heard another Club202 member got the last one...

Don't worry... keep checking Crutchfield. For some strange
reason, they keep getting a couple of Traffic Pro units every
couple of weeks. It is a discontinued item...

That's how I got mine... they were out of stock and I just
kept checking.... finally I got one.

SpEeDy230

01-21-2005, 09:20 AM

Clean Install.....I like

BBad199

01-21-2005, 09:45 AM

I bought the last one this morning! Sounded like a good deal and it saves me from having to buy a cd changer that doesn't play MP3s, that's trunk mounted, that I can't find wiring for...=)

Well, free shipping. I can't beat that with a stick.

$379 to my door.

Now I just need to find out where I can get a pair of the removal clips for the old mercedes head unit.

Does anyone know how this effects the stock security system?

Thanks,
Jon

bobcat

01-21-2005, 10:35 AM

Originally posted by BBad199
I bought the last one this morning! Sounded like a good deal and it saves me from having to buy a cd changer that doesn't play MP3s, that's trunk mounted, that I can't find wiring for...=)

Well, free shipping. I can't beat that with a stick.

$379 to my door.

Now I just need to find out where I can get a pair of the removal clips for the old mercedes head unit.

Does anyone know how this effects the stock security system?

Thanks,
Jon

MB dealer can sell you a couple of radio removal tools. They're
$7 at my dealer.

The Traffic Pro has absolutely no effect on the stock security
system. It does have its own flashing red LED when you leave
the car. Also, just like the MB radio, the Traffic Pro uses
radio code, which must be entered each time the radio unit is
completely unplugged from the car's power. Oh, and the
faceplate can be removed if you park in a bad neighborhood. :)

bobcat :)

KenzBenz

01-21-2005, 10:41 AM

hey bobcat, how do you check? you call or you just try to buy and it'll ship when available?

Renn 208

01-21-2005, 10:46 AM

bobcat, send me an e-mail, as I have some specific questions about your particular install.

bobcat

01-21-2005, 10:51 AM

Originally posted by KenzBenz
hey bobcat, how do you check? you call or you just try to buy and it'll ship when available?

I just bookmark the Traffic Pro page on Crutchfield's website
and check it every couple of days. When it shows "in stock"
again, it usually becomes "out of stock" the next day.

Here:

http://www.crutchfield.com/S-CMnubz2TEf8/cgi-bin/prodview.asp?I=108TPRO&search=trafficpro

For example, right now it says the item is "archived"... but that's
what it said two days ago... it came in stock again and the
other club202 member grabbed it.

KenzBenz

01-21-2005, 10:56 AM

i see, damn i when i looked last night it said low stock! now it's no longer available. How do you like it by the way?

bobcat

01-21-2005, 11:02 AM

Originally posted by KenzBenz
i see, damn i when i looked last night it said low stock! now it's no longer available. How do you like it by the way?

Don't give up... try it for a couple of weeks and you might get
lucky. The alternative is to purchase it for $599 directly from the
manufacturer, Becker of North America(Harmon/Kardon).

Yes, I like the Traffic Pro very much. At this price, there's nothing
better. Like I said, it is just as accurate as my Lexus DVD nav
system.(but without a map to look at) To get something like that
into my Mercedes, it would cost $2000+.

faki00

01-22-2005, 09:43 AM

I read somewhere on this forum that this doesn't fit on older 202's because of the speed sensor. My question is how accurate is that? will it work in 95 c. Thanks

bobcat

01-22-2005, 10:39 AM

Originally posted by faki00
I read somewhere on this forum that this doesn't fit on older 202's because of the speed sensor. My question is how accurate is that? will it work in 95 c. Thanks

Where did you read that? I know several W202 owners who
have the Traffic Pro. Never read about problems with the
speed sensor wire before. Of course, I don't actually know
one with the Traffic Pro in a 1995 W202. However, I've seen one
in a '96 W202. I don't think there are any difference... :)

The speed sensor wire is already inside the connector of your
stock Mercedes radio. It is the same wire that controls the
speed-dependent volume control.

I have driven almost 800 miles with the Traffic Pro and it is
as accurate as any other navigation system.(including the
Lexus DVD nav system in my other car, and my niece's
Infinit FX35)

However, like every nav system, it is only as accurate as the
map data on the disc.

knvs

01-22-2005, 01:56 PM

man that looks awesome! Where did u mount the antena? Thats one thing y im hesitent bout getting one. I want to keep as clean as a look as possible. I don't like how the new cars like audis have "fins" on the roofs. Would be totally awesome if it could be integrated with the stock hidden atena

Lse14j10

01-22-2005, 02:04 PM

I also picked up one of these just the day before yesterday. At the time there were 3 in stock. So the last 2 may have went to W202 owners as well...glad to see they stayed "in the family" so to speak.

I also wonder how you put the antenna in. Since I will be installing mine next week, can you give me any tips on how to route the wiring so everything looks clean? I'm also curious as to how you tapped into the reverse wire in the gearbox. Any info you could provide would be much appreciated!

pnsji

01-22-2005, 02:36 PM

It's good to see that other members could benefit from that great offer. Too bad they only come in amber.... otherwise I will get it for my Crossfire :cool:

bobcat

01-22-2005, 02:46 PM

Originally posted by Lse14j10
I also picked up one of these just the day before yesterday. At the time there were 3 in stock. So the last 2 may have went to W202 owners as well...glad to see they stayed "in the family" so to speak.

Here are a couple of pics of where I put the antenna.
It is only attached with velcro. From the back of the Traffic Pro,
I routed the GPS antenna wire under the dash, up and around
the lower windshield and placed the antenna dead center.
(up against the windshield) In this position, I get full GPS signal
reception 99% of the time. The wire is simply tucked into the
gap between the windshield glass the the dash.

Ignore the green paper behind the antenna... it's only there to
so you can see it clearer... :)
http://img152.exs.cx/img152/3422/thisistheant0017kz.jpg
http://img152.exs.cx/img152/9319/thisistheant0005id.jpg

mr. gatsbury

01-22-2005, 02:54 PM

bobcat

01-22-2005, 02:55 PM

Originally posted by pnsji
It's good to see that other members could benefit from that great offer. Too bad they only come in amber.... otherwise I will get it for my Crossfire :cool:

pnsji,

thanks for directing me to Crutchfield's great price on the Traffic Pro.

It does come in GREEN and RED, in addition to AMBER.

GREEN and RED are available from Continental Imports
and also directly from Becker/Harmon/Kardon of America.
(but cost a lot more)

What color is the dash lighting in your Crossfire?

bobcat :o

ignore the one at the very bottom, I don't think it was ever sold in the USA...
http://img96.exs.cx/img96/5449/traproclrs2dq.jpg

BBad199

01-22-2005, 03:05 PM

When it comes down to it, I'm pretty handy with the install of audio systems. I don't have any schematics, but I too am wondering about how you tapped into the gear box for reverse. I know that it will reroute the map when you go back to drive, but I'd rather just run a wire if there isn't a direct access from the shifter.

Looks great!!!

I think the black back with amber lighting blands really well with the stock look.

Jon

Lse14j10

01-22-2005, 04:14 PM

Maybe this is obvious and I just don't get it but if a cd can go in the cd player where does the nav. disc go? Is it like a hard drive and doesn't require a nav. disc? Is there an adapter on the back so you can still keep the disc changer...?

The way I understand it, when you input your destination, the unit requires the disk to calculate the route. Once it has been calculated, you can remove the disk and play a cd, or listen to the radio, or whatever. In the event that you take a wrong turn, and the unit needs to re-calculate, it will prompt you for the disk again. There is a hook up in the back for a CD changer so you could keep the nav CD in the unit while playing your CDs in the changer, eliminating the need for you to take your disk out of the unit when the deck needs to re-calculate. Hope this isn't too confusing.

bobcat

01-22-2005, 04:28 PM

Originally posted by BBad199
I don't have any schematics, but I too am wondering about how you tapped into the gear box for reverse.

Jon

Jon:

See photo below... The red wire on the left comes from the back
of the Traffic Pro. A quick splice connector is is included in the box
and I used it to connect the reverse light wire coming out of the
gear shifter. The wire's color is grey-yellow.

CAUTION!!! THIS ONLY APPLIES TO THE '98 C280. I DO NOT KNOW
IF THE REVERSE LIGHT WIRE IS THE SAME COLOR IN W202 FROM
OTHER YEARS. IF YOU'RE UNSURE, RUN A LONGER WIRE DIRECTLY
TO THE REVERSE LIGHT WIRE IN THE TAIL LIGHT BULB HOLDER
PLATE CONNECTOR

After the reverse light wire is connected, you can go into the
Traffic Pro's setup menu. The screen will show three small arrows
pointing up, indicating you're going forward. When you shift
into reverse with ignition on(and reverse light on), the three
arrows will poing down, indicating that you're in reverse.

Hope this info helps! :D

bobcat :)

http://img200.exs.cx/img200/538/sdhny5q2ay.jpg

bobcat

01-22-2005, 04:46 PM

mr. gatsbury & Lse14j10

Well.... yes and no... from my own personal experience, if all I
did was make a couple of wrong turns against the Traffic Pro's
guidance, it will recalculate without requiring the map CD. The
only time it asked me to re-insert the map CD is when I entered
a new destination or waypoint in the next town.

I don't take the map CD out anymore because I now connected
a Becker-Porsche 6-CD changer(which is based on a Sony CD
changer chassis).

bobcat :)

Lse14j10

01-22-2005, 06:24 PM

Bobcat, thanks for all the info! You will make my installation job go much smoother I'm sure.

Where were you able to pick up your CD changer? Model number perhaps?

bobcat

01-23-2005, 01:55 AM

Originally posted by Lse14j10
Bobcat, thanks for all the info! You will make my installation job go much smoother I'm sure.

Where were you able to pick up your CD changer? Model number perhaps?

This is where I bought the Becker 7860 CD changer for use with
my Traffic Pro:

Continental Imports
1219 S. Main St.
Gainesville, FL 32601 USA
(877) 407-2950 (ask for Scott at car audio)
http://www.continentalimports.com/be_sales.html

It comes with wiring harness that's about 18 feet long, enough
to go from the headunit to the trunk. One 6-CD magazine is
included. It uses the same CD magazine as some Sony 6-CD
changers.

http://www.harmanaudio.com/images/products/becker_7860.jpg
Description by Harman/Kardon/Becker:

The Becker 7860 CD changer offers non-stop music for long distance driving. Enjoy your favorite tracks for hours. Putting together your own personal music program is easy with a Becker CD changer. Simply put your favorite CDs in the CD changer and compile your own personalized charts. The Becker 7860 can also act as a disc jockey, automaticaly playing a completely new music program every time you use the car. The CD changer is to be used with Harman Kardon Traffic ProII and is fully compatible with all Becker models manufactured after 1994. The ESP (Electronic Shock Protection) system guarantees uninterrupted listening. Pleasure â€“ even on bumpy roads.

6-CD Changer for use with Traffic Pro and compatible with Becker head units

Lse14j10

01-23-2005, 11:00 AM

Thanks for the info, I'm sure the changer will be my next purchase.

Back to wiring the reverse sensor for a second. Since the stock mercedes plugs jack directly into the back of the traffic pro without the use of a harness, is pin 2 on socket A empty? or is there a wire there that is tied off? I guess what I'm trying to ask is, did you have to plug a wire directly into the OEM socket at pin 2 which ran to the gearbox, or was there a wire already there that you just extended?

BBad199

01-23-2005, 12:56 PM

I'm also curious about a glove box changer installation...the w202 box is rather tiny, but I'm sure that there is room behind it.

Is that where you installed yours bobcat?

Also, is the 7860 the only CD changer out there that will work with the traffic pro? Any adapters availible to hook something up that is a little less pricey ($500)?

bobcat

01-23-2005, 01:31 PM

Originally posted by Lse14j10

is pin 2 on socket A empty?

Lse14j10,

Sorry, I forgot to address this issue earlier. That pin location
is indeed empty.

The connector that came with the TrafficPro is just like the MB's.
I pulled the wire and push pin out and inserted it into the MB
connector. Perfect fit. Next, I extended that wire by about 2 feet,
so it could reach the reverse light output next to the gear shift.

Hope this clears it up for you.

bobcat :)

bobcat

01-23-2005, 01:38 PM

Originally posted by BBad199
I'm also curious about a glove box changer installation...the w202 box is rather tiny, but I'm sure that there is room behind it.

Is that where you installed yours bobcat?

Also, is the 7860 the only CD changer out there that will work with the traffic pro? Any adapters availible to hook something up that is a little less pricey ($500)?

BBad199,

Yes, the Becker 7860 fits in the W202's glove box. However,
you'll have to take out the leftmost plastic part of the door.
This is the only way to make the glove box door without cutting
the rear of the glove box.

However, I have decided to put the CD changer in the trunk,
in the stock MB location. I'm going to rework the MB bracket and
install the Becker changer there. This involves a little more time,
as I'll have to lay down the included CD changer wiring harness
from the headunit to the trunk. I"m only doing it because I rather
have more storage space up front.

http://img180.exs.cx/img180/6056/becker7860removed5aw.jpg

detroit202

01-24-2005, 07:04 AM

sweet review man,

thanks for pointing out the reverse light wire. i might have to do that when it gets warmer out.. i was too lazy in the first place to do it.. the unit still works fine without the reverse plugged in it just re calcs the route after you pull out of the driveway.

i have my antenna mounted just below where yours is right in front of the wood bow trim piece and i removed the piece and ran the wire behind the bow through the big clip hole.

also when it gets warmer the antenna will actually fit above the vents underneath the dash so you cant see it at all. but i dont know if this will affect performance.

and keep it comming anybody if they find a cheaper changer !

Thanks !

Lse14j10

01-24-2005, 07:21 AM

Detroit,
I was also thinking of mounting the antenna there, but I wasn't sure if there was enough room in the indent directly in front of the wood bow. How did you remove the wood bow and, does it stick out after you run a wire beneath it?

detroit202

01-24-2005, 07:31 AM

The wood bow has screws attached to it and is secured with like sideways keyhole shaped holes in the dash 0=== kinda like that .. so you lift up one end of the trim and push it to the side to unlock it and lift it out. I forgot which side though. Even with the wire it is a flush fit again. Do a search on the website I think its been posted how to remove it.

Lse14j10

01-24-2005, 07:40 AM

Thanks, you were right, there was already a topic on how to remove it.

faki00

01-24-2005, 08:15 AM

Just ordered mine crutchfield. I'm really looking forward to getting it...i'll post pics.

bobcat

01-24-2005, 09:07 AM

Originally posted by detroit202
sweet review man,

thanks for pointing out the reverse light wire. i might have to do that when it gets warmer out.. i was too lazy in the first place to do it.. the unit still works fine without the reverse plugged in it just re calcs the route after you pull out of the driveway.

Thanks !

detroit202,

I agree. The first few days I had the Traffic Pro, the reverse wire
was NOT hooked up. I did not notice any real difference. The
only reason I decided to hook it up was because I was already
hooking up the connection to my cell phone's mute wire... so I
thought I might as well hook up the reverse wire. :)

This cold weather really sucks. It went down to 8 degrees last
night... but I guess it must be even colder up in Detroit... :D

bobcat :)

knvs

01-24-2005, 11:54 AM

Originally posted by faki00
Just ordered mine crutchfield. I'm really looking forward to getting it...i'll post pics.
how were u able to do that?!?! It says they're out of stock. I really want one now.

faki00

01-24-2005, 01:05 PM

They had 1 left this morning.. They were all out on friday but I checked this morning and got lucky. If you keep checking you'll get lucky.

bobcat

01-24-2005, 05:58 PM

Originally posted by faki00
They had 1 left this morning.. They were all out on friday but I checked this morning and got lucky. If you keep checking you'll get lucky.

I am intrigued... Crutchfield showed the Traffic Pro as "in stock"
at 1:10pm this afternoon. less than one hour later, it went back
to "low stock" another half hour later, finally back to "not in stock,
no longer available again"...... Obviously someone snatched it
up ASAP. Apparently they get a few of Traffic Pros in stock
every few days/weeks. (don't forget the Traffic Pro is completely
discontinued by harmon/kardon for the US market)

Lse14j10

01-24-2005, 07:07 PM

Here's a question, I know that with proof-of-purchase HK will provide us (trafficpro buyers) with a discounted rate for the V 2.0 map disks ($185.50 or something). Do you think they will make any more after version 2.0? What year is the V 1.0 data anyways?

detroit202

01-25-2005, 01:12 PM

Originally posted by Lse14j10
Here's a question, I know that with proof-of-purchase HK will provide us (trafficpro buyers) with a discounted rate for the V 2.0 map disks ($185.50 or something). Do you think they will make any more after version 2.0? What year is the V 1.0 data anyways?

where did you find the info for the v2.0 map discs? the 1.0 data is from 2001. and the 2.0 is from may-june 2004 should have some canada in there as well

Lse14j10

01-26-2005, 10:34 AM

go to crutchfield, in the search box, enter in "108TPRO" and then click on the "detailed info" tab. It's in there.

bobcat

01-26-2005, 10:54 AM

click this and it's in the 2nd paragraph

Link to Crutchfield's Traffic Pro page (http://www.crutchfield.com/S-RxvsTv2FG8p/cgi-bin/ProdView.asp?g=182350&id=detailed_info&i=108TPRO)

http://www.crutchfield.com/S-RxvsTv2FG8p/cgi-bin/ProdView.asp?g=182350&id=detailed_info&i=108TPRO

faki00

01-26-2005, 11:31 AM

is just me or does that price seem very expensive for the nav disk?:angry:

detroit202

01-26-2005, 11:39 AM

hmmmm well the version 1.0 CDs can be copied

wonder if the version 2.0 can...

hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

faki00

01-26-2005, 02:17 PM

Just got my Traffic pro... Went to the shop and the said it would take him a week to install it:angry: . I figured he didn't know shite since bobcat did it in 30 mins. So i've decided to do it myself..hey bobcat how about that write up?;)

bobcat

01-26-2005, 02:45 PM

Originally posted by faki00
Just got my Traffic pro... Went to the shop and the said it would take him a week to install it:angry: . I figured he didn't know shite since bobcat did it in 30 mins. So i've decided to do it myself..hey bobcat how about that write up?;)

I assume you have the MB radio removal keys? If not, get a set
from the MB dealer. Wait... if you ordered from Crutchfield, the
keys are included, if you told them you have a Mercedes. Call
Crutchfield again if they didn't include the removal keys.

After you take the MB radio out, unplug all connectors, including
the FM/AM radio antenna connector. Plug the Traffic Pro in.
After that, plug the Traffic Pro's GPS antenna in. Route the wires
under or behind the dash. (either the way I did it or like what
detroit202 did) You're done. Turn the radio on and enter the
radio code to unlock the unit. Enjoy the music. Read the manual
to learn how to start using the navigation part.

Don't bother with the reverse light wire if you're uncomfortable
doing it. It won't make that much of a difference.

As for a full review, sorry... it will take me a while to write it up.
I cut my thumb badly today while putting in the Becker CD
changer. The original MB CD changer bracket cut me as I was
drilling it to fit the Becker changer. :( But I'd be glad to answer
any question as best as I can. I think I've covered almost every-
thing in the last several pages of this post.

Last but not least, here are the details on the CD changer install,
which I have just completed this afternoon.

I took out the original MB CD changer located in the trunk.
(unscrew two screws on top and one nut on the bottom
of the bracket) I tucked the MB CD changer wiring harness
back behind the carpet.

Using a Dremel tool, I drilled 4 holes on the MB bracket. The
Becker CD changer mount were screwed in using 4 10-32, 3/4"
machine screws from Home Depot (85 cents) I made sure all
the changers is mounted tightly on the bracket.

The changer and bracket were placed back in the original position
and secured.

I ran the Becker CD changer wiring harness from the back of the
Traffic Pro, down under the passenger side carpet, running along
the door sills. The rear seat(upper and lower cushions) were
removed to allow cable access into the trunk. There's plenty of
space there for the original MB wires/vacuum tubes/etc....

By the time I brought the wiring next to the CD changer, there
was still at least 3 feet left, so I tucked most of it under the trunk
side carpet and left about 1 foot out. It was then plugged into
the CD changer.

In the photo below, you'll see that I've used the CD changer
cover from MB. It fits okay, but makes the changer look small.
The Becker changer is a lot smaller than the original MB changer.
The MB changer took up all the space inside the changer cover.

The photo showing the headunit will also show the 6 CD holder
that I put in to replace the MB coin tray(or 6 cassette holder).
Perfect for storing the map CDs and a few other music CDs.
The bottom slot on the 6 CD holder has a red tab indicating
the presence of a CD. The other ones are white, indicating empty.

However, I don't think I'll ever have a need to take the map CD
out, since I put in a changer. (unless I need the West map CD)

That's all for now... will write more when my thumb gets better.

bobcat :)

http://img150.exs.cx/img150/5927/1sdfasdfadsf21ze.jpg
http://img150.exs.cx/img150/2831/2qwerasdf6rr.jpg
http://img150.exs.cx/img150/7821/3afasdfasdf9zm.jpg

mbsickness

01-26-2005, 03:57 PM

Originally posted by bobcat

http://img150.exs.cx/img150/2831/2qwerasdf6rr.jpg

Hey Bobcat, where di you get the safety triangle on your trunk? Any chance of a part number? Also does Mercedes sell just the faceplate for teh Traffic Pro? And I am almost afraid to ask but....how much was it? I was able to pick up a Traffic Pro from Crutchfield yesterday and even received the confirmation email. Of course I am still keeping my figers crossed until it arrives.

faki00

01-26-2005, 05:20 PM

Hey bobcat thanks.... I just installed mine. Now i gotta find a way to hide the wires. Once again much appreciated.:D
anyone feel like splitting the cost for the nav disks?

bobcat

01-26-2005, 06:07 PM

Originally posted by faki00
Hey bobcat thanks.... I just installed mine. Now i gotta find a way to hide the wires. Once again uch appreciated.:D

WOW! Do you have a time machine or something? Has it been
a week already? Wasn't it only a few hours ago that you wrote
" went to the shop and the said it would take him a week to install it..."

That's the fastest week I've ever seen... :D :D :D

Glad I was able to help... :)

bobcat

bobcat

01-26-2005, 07:09 PM

Originally posted by mbsickness
Hey Bobcat, where di you get the safety triangle on your trunk? Any chance of a part number? Also does Mercedes sell just the faceplate for teh Traffic Pro? And I am almost afraid to ask but....how much was it? I was able to pick up a Traffic Pro from Crutchfield yesterday and even received the confirmation email. Of course I am still keeping my figers crossed until it arrives.

Crutchfield keeps a pretty tight control on its inventory. If you
can order it, you will get it.(unless if falls off the UPS truck or
something... :) ) I toured their facilities a couple of years ago
and was throughly impressed. Even their warehouse floor was
spotless.

The "Mercedes-Benz" faceplate cost under $100 installed.
All they did was replace the plastic frame of the faceplate.
Highway robbery if you ask me... :) I only got it done because,
well... you know... :D Email me if you'd like to know where I
had it done.

Back to your first question... I have posted it in another section,
since it's not related to electonics. :) Click linky below:

http://www.club202.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=5887

bobcat :)

1998K

01-27-2005, 01:02 AM

Dear bobcat, your installaion is really very nice.

I'd like to install the same 6 CD holder below my JVC headunit. I see in your phot a small hole in the upper right corner, probably to pass a cable, as I can see.

Since I intend to make a similar hole (probably below) to pass a cable to install on the left side of the CD holder itself, a dedicated switch (it is the push botton for the Nokia Bluetooth kit that actually is mounted inside the factory coin holder in the same place), I'd like to know if you find it possible, and mainly acceptable as aesthetic point of view.

Hoping to be clear in my bad explanation.

thanks

Marco:)

bobcat

01-27-2005, 01:55 AM

Originally posted by 1998K
I see in your phot a small hole in the upper right corner, probably to pass a cable, as I can see.
Marco:)

Thank you for your compliments! :)

You're absolutely correct. I did make that hole to pass two cables
from the mobile phone cradle.(mounted on the right side) I guess
nothing can escape your sharp eyes! :D I grinded out that half
circle hole using a Dremel tool. One is the main phone cable and
the other one is the mobile phone antennal cable. (6mm and 2mm
in diameter)

I know exactly the Nokia Bluetooth switch you're talking about.
(had one in this car until I switched to a non-Bluetooth mobile
phone) I think a better place for it would be right next to the
rearview mirror and trunk-open switch, just in front of the
cupholder, assuming your W202 has an armrest.

But this largely depends on how you drive. I usually drive with
my left hand on the steering wheel and my right arm resting on
the armrest. :D Having the switch in the position I described means
I didn't even have to move my right arm to press the Bluetooth
switch.(just use my fingers to reach down there) If you usually
drive with both hands on the wheel, then mounting it on the
CD holder makes sense. I think it looks fine over there. :)

A friend of mine mounts that switch right on the center wood
trim, on the left of the ASR switch. Looks odd that way, but he
like that position.

bobcat :)

1998K

01-27-2005, 02:24 AM

Originally posted by bobcat
Thank you for your compliments! :)

You're absolutely correct. I did make that hole to pass two cables
from the mobile phone cradle.(mounted on the right side) I guess
nothing can escape your sharp eyes! :D I grinded out that half
circle hole using a Dremel tool. One is the main phone cable and
the other one is the mobile phone antennal cable. (6mm and 2mm
in diameter)

I know exactly the Nokia Bluetooth switch you're talking about.
(had one in this car until I switched to a non-Bluetooth mobile
phone) I think a better place for it would be right next to the
rearview mirror and trunk-open switch, just in front of the
cupholder, assuming your W202 has an armrest.

But this largely depends on how you drive. I usually drive with
my left hand on the steering wheel and my right arm resting on
the armrest. :D Having the switch in the position I described means
I didn't even have to move my right arm to press the Bluetooth
switch.(just use my fingers to reach down there) If you usually
drive with both hands on the wheel, then mounting it on the
CD holder makes sense. I think it looks fine over there. :)

A friend of mine mounts that switch right on the center wood
trim, on the left of the ASR switch. Looks odd that way, but he
like that position.

bobcat :)

Dear bobcat you are really so nice with your explanation.
As far as my sharp eyes, thanks but only with glasses:) I saw also that your dreamed hole is perfect as if done by factory.

Did you find a fixed phone kit better than the Nokia Bluetooth? I've chose that because of possible phone changing with full interface, plus I do not use very often the phone during drive.

I'll take in great attention your suggestion for the installation: near the trunk open switch or, I I'm actually wondering on the Cd holder itself. ...as your friend done I agree with you, it's not so nice as also my point of view.

NOTE: Usually I drive as you but considering mine is a manual and not auto, sport shifting is quite difficoult with hight centre consolle, but it's really nice and comforting.

I like very much your Beker, please I belive that the FM reception is good, how is the CD signal? Mine is a JVC (top line model of 4 years ago), and CD's are really very nice played.

Thanks a lot

Marco

:)

bobcat

01-27-2005, 06:17 AM

I really liked the Nokia 6310i phone and the Nokia Bluetooth car
kit that I had. However, the mobile phone carrier in my area do
not have good signal. Swtiching back to a hard-wired Nokia
car kit allowed me to hook up an external(on-glass) mobile phone
antenna. It gets much better reception. I doubt this will be
a problem for you if you live near a big city with strong signals. :)
Of course Bluetooth was easier to use... no need to put the
phone into the cradle everytime I get in the car.

I had a W202 a few years(from Europe) that did not come with
the high certer console(armrest). It had a flat center console.
No place to put my right arm and no cupholder, but it was easier
to shift the gears.(especially if you have a manual transmission
W202) :)

♫
The original MB radio(Alpine) and the Becker Traffic Pro both get
pretty good FM reception. However, both are limited by the
embedded radio antenna in the rear glass window. Again, my
old W202 with the power antenna on the rear fender had better
radio reception. I did notice that the Traffic Pro gets much better
AM reception in my area.(but I only use it to listen to one news
AM station)

As for the CD sound(in-dash player and the CD changer), the
Traffic Pro is pretty good. ♫I n fact, I'm going to say it is slightly
better than the MB CD changer. Seems to have better stereo
separation(better stereo image of the sound, not sure if that's
how to describe it. (could be just my personal preference)

Also, The Becker changer is based on a Sony 6 CD changer and it
has ESP electronic shock protection. (which also means I can buy
Sony 6-CD magazines at a cheaper price) It handles rough
roads better than the MB/Alpine changer, especially when I
switch back to the 18-inch wheels after the winter. The MB
changer will skip when I hit reall hard bumps or potholes. Yes,
my area has really bad roads. :(

What part of Italy are you in? I visited Venice and Rome, and
then Stockholm, last year. It was my first time in Italy. You may
find this hard to believe, but I like driving in Italy. It scared the
cr*p out of my friend, since I was driving his precious new
Alfa Romeo 166. :D It's not like in Germany where everyone is
so uptight.(follow the rules too much) :)

bobcat :)

1998K

01-27-2005, 07:30 AM

Hey Bob,

I understand your problem, seems me that your area is not well covered both by phone signal and...also by good road.

And you are running during summer on 18" very impressive!:cool:

Did you received a W202 from Europe! Really strange, you had a lot of W202, seems you are quite satisfied.

Mine is the first MB, and I have to say that I'm also really happy (a part for the manual gearbox really slow if used sportly). I only would like to have a mechanical LSD.:) ASR do not help too much.

Previously I had mainly BMW (E36 318 serie not well assembled and a E34 that was really very good).

Here they suggested me, as top quality sound that the best are Nakamiki (as CD point of view) but due to their lack on the radio reception (that I always listen) I preferred the other two kindly suggested brand: Alpine and JVC. I have to say that I found, that time, JVC better than Alpine, so I decided that.

As far as Beker, I received good appreciation for the radio reception but as the CD quality they said that only Alpine and JVC are close to Nakamiki. I really loved Beker (look is the best) and I still wondering to it.

but...money is the first problem. Now I just spend for Koni and H&R so....

Venice and Rome are really nice place, but too much "caos" to live. I'm in north est (Trieste) close to Slovenia. Really nice place also here, close to sea and mountain.

Driving here now is really critical because new regulations permit you loose the driving license very fast rules due to an amount of "storage point" you will loose if you drive/park bad (hope you will understand my bad english).

That is the reason I sold my old M5 E34, I payed too much and loose (that time only for one mounth but now is worse) the driving license.

As far as Stockolm I were in Sweden some times, but too cold in winter :)

Marco:)

mbsickness

02-01-2005, 02:59 PM

I just finished installing my Traffic Pro. I have never had an easier install. More time was spent putting the wiring harness back together as it was cut up during an aftermarket deck install. Bye bye Nakamichi deck. I didn't hook up the reverse light wire but it seems to work just fine. Hopefully by the end of next week I'll be able to figure out how to adjust all the settings. Anyone have the version 2.0 nav disks? Just wondering if it is worth the upgrade....at $185, that is half the cost of the deck! Thanks to the Club202 forum as if it weren't for this forum I would never have known about this unit and the great price at Crutchfield.

knvs

02-08-2005, 07:58 PM

I just got one today too! No just wondering, does the GAL (speed sensitive volume adjust) work on our cars? I don't think my bose has that, n if it does i don't notice it. I'll be trying to intall it tomorrow! Also how do u hide the wire for the atenna? How do i get it behind the dash is my question. Do i have to u screw something? or just kinda pry it back a lil and stuff it under?

kameraguy

02-09-2005, 08:32 AM

I've been debating a navi system for a while now, and this item has really got me curious. It looks really cool and the price is really hard to ignore.

It would be hard to give up mp3 playing ability from the alpine cd changer I currently have though.

Is there any option to hook up an mp3-compatible disc changer to this unit?

Or how about a line-input for an ipod?

Thx!

faki00

02-11-2005, 06:42 AM

Originally posted by kameraguy
I've been debating a navi system for a while now, and this item has really got me curious. It looks really cool and the price is really hard to ignore.

It would be hard to give up mp3 playing ability from the alpine cd changer I currently have though.

Is there any option to hook up an mp3-compatible disc changer to this unit?

Or how about a line-input for an ipod?

Thx!

Theres an option for aux in, but if you use that u can't connect a cd changer. I have my archos pvp connected to it and it works ok.

someone sent me an email a while ago asking about splitting the costs of the nav disk, but lost the email. If u get thiis can u please email me again. I accidently deleted it. Also if there are ne others interested in splitting the costs of this disk email me @ faki00@hotmail.com. Safe.