I've decided to ditch the CD changer and replace it with an iPod Nano. I plan to buy the Becker connector which will also charge the iPod. The Nano is small enough that it should just sit in the center storage console unobtrusively.

I've searched this forum and I don't see that anyone has done this, so my question is how to remove the storage console and get the bulky connector in there.

Any suggestions?

 

My recommendation is consistent across the board. If you have to ask, take it to a stereo shop and have it done properly.

 

I did this... I removed the center console, ran the cord to the storage compartment, which I cut a small 1/4" X 1/4" piece out of the base of the corner, and my iPod sits in the storage compartment nicely. I don't remember which cord I bought but it is compatible with the iPhone, iPod, and nano and charges it too.

 

Did you remove the storage compartment or rear console to cut the hole? I'm thinking I'll drill a round hole to pass the square connector through, and then get a grommet to cover the round hole.

Anyone have instructions on removing the rear console or storage compartment under the center arm rest?

 

I remember someone showing how he installed a bluetooth module in the ashtray part of the console and had good instructions and photos. Running the cable for the iPod should be about the same. Not sure if it was here or on Rennlist but if you search for bluetooth you should be able to find it.

Personally, I think the Nano is too small to deal with while driving. I'm using an iPod Touch with the Becker cable and am very happy with it. The iPod touch can be used with voice commands. My low-tech but highly effective mounting solution is Velcro, which I was able to find in a color that matches my Savannah interior. The iPod stays in the car all of the time unless I'm adding music or leaving the car overnight for servicing.

 

Im working on a iPod flush mount install in the ashtray slot in the center console.

 

Before I upgraded to a Kenwood system, I used the Becker cable with an iPod Nano. I just ran the cable to the glove box and left the Nano in there. It worked fine.

 

I would gladly leave the ipod on the glove compartment if I had one. 1999-2001 models don't have a glove compartment. Running the cable to the ash tray or ash tray delete tray would also be easy but I would like to leave the ipod inside the center console storage compartment. Hopefully, I can figure out how to do that without removing the entire console.

 

Right... I didn't realize your car was a MK I.

I think the center console would work fine, but my guess is that you'll have to remove it...

 

I replaced the entire stereo system and have an IPod touch in the console. Since I can access the IPod through the stereo, there is no need to see it. Although the centre console looks big and scary, it comes out with about 5 screws, but really you just need it to be loose enough to get the wires under it - you don`t have to take it out. There is a screw (or two) under the shifter boot, one under the ash tray, one under the coin holder (remove coin holder first) and another under the floor in the storage compartment.

The storage part of console has a floor that comes out with one screw. Remove the rubber mat and you will see it. Once you have the floor out, you can trim just enough of a hole on one side to allow you to pass the connector cable for your IPod. That should do it.

 

I think that's how I'm going to run the cable. I already removed the rubber mat and the plastic floor below it. As you suggested, I'll trim a small corner off the right front side of the plastic floor. That way, I don't need to make a large hole anywhere. I'll do the same to the rubber mat. Then, I'll leave about 9" of cable inside the console so that I don't have to disconnect the ipod whenever I want to change the playlist, etc. I'll also order a replacement plastic floor and rubber mat in case I need to restore everything to original at some point.

Thanks for your input.