v1 installation addendum
 

Just finished my v1 install, following the great instructions posted here. Wanted to add a detail... Wasn't sure how to remove the dome light to access the overhead wiring until I noticed a small screwdriver slot on the back (toward the rear of the x) edge of the light. The rest of the instructions were great...

Now on to the s1 install...:)

I installed my S1 in the left rear hatch, below the CD changer. Picked up I-Bus wire from the Nav unit, and power for the S1 from the CD changer. Then ran 4 conductor "silver satin" flat telephone wire from the hatch up to the right sun visor. This method eliminated having to wire into the dome light, and makes it easier to update the S1, or remove it, in the future.

Question for you blokes. I would like to purchase a Valentine 1, however I do not want to hard wire it because I want to be able to use it in my other cars. What is the best placement of the unit on the winshield for optimum performance? And does hardwiring the unit have an advantage over non hardwiring except of course for tidiness? Thanks.

I found the best placement to be just on the passenger side of the inside rear view mirror, tucked tightly in the nook at the top of the windshield. This allows a clear view of the V1 out the back glass, as well as being out of the way while driving. As far as why to hardwire, I just don't like all the wires going to the power outlet. Plus, the power outlets in the X5 are always hot, and I don't want to have to turn the V1 off and on all the time.

Hardwiring doesn't prevent you from using the V1 in other cars.

You can still hardwire it... the hardwired powercord easily plugs in and out of the v1 for fast removal. The wire just stays above the visor when not in use...

Thanks coffeeman, going to try the install this weekend and will look at that setup

According to some tests I've read on radar detector forums, low on the windshield (but high enough to see out the back window) with a slight downward incline improves detection of laser as it picks up scatter off the hood. It doesn't compromise x/k/ka detection much at all.

Not sure if it helps much in mine since I have a black hood ;)

Thanks guys for the info, much appreciated.

Cheers.:thumbup: