I recently bought a REC Nav head unit off eBay for my Patriot. I want to do the install myself but don't know where to start. Does anyone have installation instructions or pictures detailing how to go about installing this unit? I have everything I need except instllation instructions. This was purchased used and therefore, did not come with install instructions.

Thanks.
gsmac7

I installed one.

I've got to run to the doctor, but I do have all the info.

I'll get something posted whenI get back.


Cheers,
Jim

Thanks,
I'm looking forward to that.

gsmac7

All righty then....

If you go here (http://www.nearlynormal.biz/jeep/patriot_info.html).

I think what you need will be on the right under 'Stock Radio Info', labeled
'Radio removal',
'REC Installation', and
'GPS Antenna Installation', and on the left at the bottom labeled,
'Instrument Cover Top Panel removal'.

Removing the top dash cover is only necessary to fit the GPS antenna.

It was a pretty straightforward install. The only catch was when I slid the new bracket to hold the REC into the dash and screwed it into the holes it naturally appeared to want to line up to, it turned out to be installed too high.

I had to remove it and use just a little force to push it down and screw it into the lower holes to get it to line up.

I also added the iPod integration so it did make for a handful of wires behind the unit, but it all fits.

I applied the 'No Motion' patch to the map DVDs. It works fine and allows you to enter info into the Nav while moving. Instructions are on the site also.

If I missed a diagram or you have any questions, let me know.

Good Luck,
Jim

thanks for the info. So you say I don't need to remove the dash panel to install this radio? My setup is that I already have a defective unit installed. I had the dealer put it in. I bought on ebay and the nav system did not work, so I am sending unit back to seller for refund and I have purchased a new unit which should be here on Friday. I just want to take out old Nav unit and install new one. All I have to ship back to this joker is the head unit. Antenna was purchased separately as was Nav CD and mounting bracket so those things stay. How do you I get to remove the center panel? Is it through the power outlet?

Thanks

Ohh crap, I just notced the REC installation pdf does not cover the Patriot....

I will try and dig up the one that came with mine and scan a pdf, but in the meantime download the 'iPod Integration Install' from the site I linked to. Its in the Stock Radio Section

Scroll down to the Patriot info and check out steps 1,3, 4, 10, 12.
there are only 4 screws to reveal the radio.

To answer your question, no you should not have to remove the dash cover to just remove the radio.

Jim

Ok. thanks, I will try that now.

Ok, just so I'm clear, the top cover and the shifter silver plate just snap off?

Correct. If you don't have an interior trim kit, a flat head screwdriver with the end wrapped with tape works pretty well and helps from scaring and scratching.

Jim

when you remove the bezel, does the AC controls come off with it or do have to pull those off before removing the bezel?

They come off with it.

Once you get that loose, you can remove all the conenctions from the back of the AC unit if you want, but I didn't. It will hang out of the way enough to do what you want to do. I used a bent coat hanger and hung it from the wheel to take stress off of the connections.


Jim

thanks

Thanks again Jimmy!

This info will be useful once my unit comes next week hopefully!! I won one on ebay last night.

If you dont mind me asking, which seller did u buy yours from that didnt work?? I want to make sure I didnt buy from the same person before I send payment LOL... and how much did you get the new one for? I bought a used as well, I hope it works!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! *crosses fingers*

Good luck with it and let me know how you like it!

They come off with it.

Once you get that loose, you can remove all the conenctions from the back of the AC unit if you want, but I didn't. It will hang out of the way enough to do what you want to do. I used a bent coat hanger and hung it from the wheel to take stress off of the connections.


Jim

Thanks again. The unit arrived last week, I installed, it looks nice, works great, no scratched on parts I removed and I am feeling pretty good with myself. I really appreciated you help.
Thanks again.

I am SO happy, my unit came today and I actually attempted to install it myself. I got stuck a few times and came back on here and it helped a lot. Thanks so much Jimmy!!!!!!

The hardest part for me was getting the ac/heater controls onto the new bezel since there wasn't much room and I didnt have good tools.

I'm so proud that I did it myself though, my first radio install ever! It was tricky at first getting the dash apart, but I managed eventually. I put a few minor scratches on the bezel and one little on on the nav unit :S I'm still proud though, pretty good for a girl!!! :D