The Mission: To install a CD changer where I can easily change the cartridge w/o having to pull over and get out of the vehicle. I considered the glove box because of the factory Nakamichi decks location and that’s where I put the changer in my MB300CE, but decided against it because of the orientation and I didn’t want to give up that space here. Next was the center console. I hardly ever used the cup holder because it was too awkward for me so I decide to sacrifice it. After taking some measurements, (changer dimensions and space limitations) I realized this was doable, but I’d be giving up some space in the console armrest storage compartment as well.
It wasn’t apparent to me how involved this was going to be until I removed the center console and discovered the a/c duct for the rear passengers. It had to be trimmed and reshaped to allow the project to move forward. This was done in sections w/ a utility knife and screwed together, then hot glued and wrapped w/ masking tape while the glue hardened. The fit had to be checked after each section because the duct tended to warp from the alterations. This was by far the most difficult and tedious part of this project. After its completion, the reshaped area was wrapped w/ aviation non-adhesive pressure sensitive tape.
With that done, several cuts were made in the console to fit the changer, then check the fit and recheck!!!! and recheck!!! With the location established, the cup holder and storage bin was measured, taped and carefully sawn in two. The top portions were retained to maintain the factory appearance. The sliding door was trimmed to the size of the opening and now just rests there. Back together, it is almost impossible to tell that any changes have been made and I can change discs on the fly. Mission accomplished.
The extra space next to the changer is where the EQ will go. It’s on order
08-03-2005, 07:48 AM
Linear Mode
