Hi all,
I have limited knowledge on car electronics ( so far i have only installed fog lights ) but have great interest on that subject.
I'd like to install add-on cd changer to my friend's 2001 Civic LX.
I've done some research using "Search" function here, but did not find what I wanted. Like I said i do have limited, but some experience, so i know how to pull out the unit and how to run the wires/cables... here's my question.

HOW HARD IS IT TO INSTALL AN ADD-ON CD CHANGER?
AND IS THERE SOME TIPS AND/OR TRICKS YOU WANT TO SHARE WITH ME?

Or is there a good source (website) where it gives you step-by-step instruction?

I just don't wanna start something i can't finish.

THX

 

If you want to know the honest truth...the first install I ever did was a CD changer. You probably won't find much here on installing a CD changer in an LX but why don't you check hondav6, honda-acura, and the other honda forums...I'm sure you'll find a ton of pictures and tutorials etc. I can offer you things to think about beforehand...though some may be mundane.

As for installing the actualy CD changer...there's not really much to it. Just decide on a spot to put it (I don't know your model so I will assume not monsterously big). In an LX I'd say probably the glove box or the trunk. If you put it outside their reach (trunk) make sure that there's some way to control it without having access to it. I don't know how you would, but keep it out of ANY direct sunlight, and out of sight is always good too (theft). And if you mount it in a place where you may have to screw into metal, make sure to get metal screws and a good power tool.

Make sure the headunit he has will control that exact CD changer. Make sure you have the proper wiring connectors etc, and make sure they're all long enough for where you want to put it. When I install something not in the dash, I usually like to lay out on the floor of the car where the wires are going to go, just to get a visaulization before I start, and make sure I always have at least an extra foot of wire just in case.

Then take out whatever paneling is in your way and lay everything down. I always use twist ties, as they keep everything neat, when laying my wire. If you have to run a separate power cable (not part of the wire bundle that runs to the cd changer) then make sure to pick a boot on the engine wall that's as far to the outside and up into the car as possible...and reseal it with silicone goo if you're a real perfectionist. And make sure to ground the negative to a solid part of the chassy (metal screws and power tool = good) that you've sanded around the screw hole to remove the paint coating.

Aside from that you've really picked a good thing to start on (you sound like this is your first install). All you have to do is plug in the wiring connector, plug in the power (depending on the model), screw it in, run the wires, and plug it in to the back of the head unit. Make sure they're compatible!

I just installed a video head unit and dvd for a 92 civic lx...I'll tell you removing the shift knob and the front console was such a plus when running those wires...whew.

Any problems post em here and good luck

Austin519

 

As I recall, the Honda radios (except the Bose turds) are made by Alpine and an M-series (CHM-S601) changer will work with a Peripheral Interface model ACUALP as long as the HU has the ability to interface with a changer in the first place. I installed this setup in my '94 Integra GSR and also in a friend's '97 Accord. Check with the local shop, since you'll need to buy the adapter from them anyway. Unless it is an FM modulated changer, then all necessary parts will be included, except possibly an antenna adapter, but that's usually only GM's, VW's, and newer Fords

 

the hardest part is tearing down the interior without breaking everything! once you have the radio out, you just plug the changer into the back of it. unfortunately, that car is so new that i am not able to find net resources containing detailed factory honda instructions.

 

you know what...i just found those instructions!

2 door

4 door

go with the oem piece or an alpine one to utilize the built in controls...getting a fm modulated changer should not be an option.

enjoy!

 

Thank you guys!
I really appreciate your time and info.
I did consider the Alpine or other brand one crutchfield.com carries for $299, (Honda headunit compatible changer) but me and my friend decided to go with FM-add-on Sony RF(RX540) which I found it for $195 and they have this $20 rebate program going on now.
Well, as I was saying...yeah I'll be installing that modulated one.
I know I need to pull 12V right from the battery and gotta connect to antenna wire besides the main one, but I don't know what kinda wires I need to pull the power from the battery.
Do i need to get the think ones? like the ones used for amp?
Your advice will be very appreciated.
Thx guys!

Joe

 

is there a wiring harness for the rf system? if so, i would imagine going with the same gauge would be cool. if it's not thick to begin with then why bother...

the thickest non-amp type cable would be 12 gauge.

 

I didn't (and still don't) have much knowledge on car electronics. However I found it very interesting and fun when I installed an a CD changer on my '94 Civic when a few years ago.

I bought the CD Changer kit from the parts dept. of a Honda dealer. They also gave me the CD Changer installation instructions.

The toughest part (IMO) was to route the cable under the carpet.

Have fun.