It was a busy busy weekend but we installed the GPS system, some more smart accessories and a couple other items but here I’ll introduce you to the GPS system that I built into the 451 smart.
I have a long step by step instructions with some photos here:
http://www.*************/2008/01/gps-...smart-451.html
But there is the photo of the finished product below.
Here is a highlight list:
Keeps the factory CD changer, mp3 player and smart logo when I start the car.
Keeps factory styling within the cars interior as with the TOMTOM the cradle or off the cradle colors and styling matches perfectly.
GPS unit sits a little higher and in better viewing point while driving as looking down at the cd player area would cause loss of view of the road and possible problems.
Virtually* eliminates the big steal me sign you get from using a windshield mounted GPS unit or in dash nav unit. (*say virtually as if you leave the TOMTOM on the cradle its still a steal me sign, you need to tuck it away to remove the sign)
Never falls down or gets in the way like a windshield mounted version. Cold/hot weather plays games on those suction cups and that damn cable is always in the way.
Total cost was $427.65 Canadian ($434.83 US) for all parts and about 3 to 4 hours of your time and a few tools.
If you have questions, want some better photos or comments let me know. I’ll be posting some video of the unit in action in the next week (or so) as I removed all the in car cameras due to another thing we where doing.
Linear Mode
