All,

I am new to the world of car audio / navigation, but hope to get pointed in the right direction!

I am going to buy an AVIC Z1 for my F150, and I've been scouring the web to see if there is any chance whatsoever that I can tackle the install solo. I'd like to install unit with bluetooth, and possibly a backup camera.

I first looked on crutchfield and noticed they make self installation seem pretty simple. Mastersheets, wiring harnesses, etc. Almost make it seem like the install would take an hour or so. Is this a safe route?

If not, and I buy the unit from say, Amazon...I know I have to buy the BT adapter, the camera...but what else do I need for the installation? I downloaded the Pioneer install guide - totally greek to me!

If solo attempts fail - who should I look to for installation services? I'm in Atlanta - but dont want to deal with the big shops...

Any assistance / thoughts / encouragement would be appreciated!

Ever installed anything electrical in a car before?

Not really - Installed a pair of speakers years ago - but I dont think that would count?

It's not a hard install at all, just need a couple tools, phillips screwdriver, panel puller, 7mm or 9/32" nutdriver, crimpers, crimp connectors, wire cutters, 6-pack, etc. The only part you really need any common sense for is the camera install, you need to be caruful of moving and hot things under the truck. Other than that, ---- cake.

Jimmy303,

Are you assuming I get the required stuff Crutchfield states I should get?

I'm reading alot about bypassing this and that - so the DVD works when the truck is in motion, parking brake bypass, etc. What is all that about?

Chris

There are detailed instructions on this forum on how to do video lockout bypasses for all the Pioneer nav units. And yes, you can get a kit and harness from either Crutchfield or a local retailer. But try and throw business to your local small privately owned shops whenever you can, you'll find those guys are not only usually more knowledgable, they are more apt to help you out with advice and sharing tips and tricks. Not to mention they are the true backbone of this industry.

I'm reading alot about bypassing this and that - so the DVD works when the truck is in motion, parking brake bypass, etc. What is all that about?

When you get it, find out when it was made and follow the instructions here:

http://www.sminntech.com/z1flash.html

OK - thanks for the info thus far. I think i'm getting a better grip on this stuff.

As far as the backup camera...has anyone done an install in an F150 that can share the route they took with the cable?

Thanks!

Just roll yer ass under the truck, there is a harness that runs from the taillights to the front of the truck, I think it might run inside the frame rail on the driver's side, and secure your new wiring right along with that. If you follow factory harness routes, you usually can't go wrong. Just watch for anything that moves, pinches or shoots flames, you should be fine. coming through the floor into the cabin, I usually drill a hole in the floor under the kick panel, if necessary. That's usually easy to seal, and, since it's usually the lowest point in the car, it will self-drain if I wasn't perfect with the silicone. Make sure you hook up the power for the camera to an accessory circuit, like the radio, so you can use the split nav/rear-view screen function. I like to finish this kind of job with a hefewiesen, such as Hoegaarden or even the Blue Moon wheat ale.

LOL! I figured that would be in the equation! Thanks for the information - I'll seek things out under there.

Everything should arrive on Friday - so I'll get started soon. I'll be sure to post some pics along the way - and will probably be back for more information. Make that definitely be back for more information!

OK - received my stuff (or the majority of it) today. The backup camera is still on its way.

The unit was mfg in December 2006 - So I have read up on the bypass procedures. I'm not sure I totally grasp it yet, as I have not started any installation - but I'm hoping it will come to me.

I'll keep you all posted. Might start the install tomorrow.