Rep Power: 0

Hey everyone, im getting a Alpine CDA-7893. I want to install it myself, because I hear that it is easy. I know how to get the old unit out and I am getting an install kit off ebay that comes with a harness for the new head unit. The only thing I am not sure of is what to do with that harness. I now it connects the old wires that connected directly to the stock unit to the new unit, but I am not sure how? Also, when I saw that back of my stock unit when painting my trim, there was a plug, that you just simply plugged into the back of the stock head unit. Looked like one of those large plugs that goes into a stereo system. Does that go directly into the new unit without any conversions? I would really appreciate your help!

 
Rep Power: 0

have fun. just installed myself.
a pain in the butt

 
Rep Power: 431

i will take some pics for you . if i have time

 
Rep Power: 0

You'll plug the adapter into that harness that plugs directly into the stock radio. Then, you have color coded wires and will know which one is which. You simply match those wires up to the ones coming off your new head unit and connect them. I soldered mine together then wrapped each wire with electrical tape. Lastly, I zip tyed them together around all the connections to keep the tape from unraveling.

It's a very easy job so save the $50 bucks. It's a little bit of a hassle running the power wire though. They recommend a direct connection to the batt but I just wired mine to one of the post in the MAIN fuse box w/ 12 gauge power wire. Of course I have since turned off the internal amp which makes that work useless but oh well....

Also, you don't need to remove the center console to get the cover off that houses the power outlet. Simply pull it off from the top of it (pry it out) and then pull up on it. It will come out w/o console removal. Once, you get the 2 screws out, (8mm if I remember correctly) reach up behind the dash and push that whole center piece out as hard as you can. It will pop out enough for you to get your fingers underneath. Don't pry the thing from the outside like the DIY says to.

 
Rep Power: 0

With your kit, a wiring diagram should come with that. Follow the diagram to match the wires and connect them. The way I did was I used butt-splices ($5 for 50 at any hardware store) to connect all the wires. The connections are strong and you don't have to mess with solder. I think that this way is easier. Make sure you have some crimpers and strippers which will run you no more $10 for both which you can pick up with the butt-splices at the store. It should go pretty quickly. Good luck!

 
Rep Power: 0

Go with what litespeed says. I was just telling you how I did it and really didn't mean that you should do it that way too. Solder does make the strongest connection and will keep the size of the wires as a whole to a minimum. It does take longer though. Anyhow, truth be told, I just like to get out my iron and solder stuff...