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I've seen conversions done in E-series cars but none in the C230 style. I have a 1998 C230 and would like to move the climate control to the location of the (useless and obsolete) cassette storage and modify the center stack to accommodate a Double-DIN CarPlay unit (Alpine's). I've seen a kit that leaved a big, ugly black frame around the unit, rather than the burl wood cheek-by-jowl that looks factory.
Has anyone had this done on done it themselves? I'd hate to leave it an installer, lest they use one of those ugly kits.
I know I'd have to dermal the burl and the plastic framing behind, I'd just like to know if anyone successfully did this and if they have some pictures... attached is a Photoshopped example of the idea.
Interesting photo. The space behind the cassette box is a decent size to fit a double din. I am not sure whats below the single din radio cage once removed, but if it's a horizontal metal support bar, I guess you would need to cut it at both ends. As far as damage to the Burl with a Dremel, don't party the night before you try cutting it. :-)
If you do it, post some step by step photos, and potential problems.
Good luck
As you peaked my interest, I checked it out, and it seems quite simple to go with the double DIN. A small piece needs to be removed, and I would use the following tool.
It's a wire saw, and a decent one for $5.00 to 10.00 will be easier to control anddo the job better than a Dremel
Last edited by ptcruiser; May 30, 2015 at 03:42 PM.
Reason: Add more info
It is available, and that is what I use.
It's an inexpensive Jensen model with a ton of features. VM9214.
It is a discontinued model, and has Bluetooth, but only with a kit that is tough to find. https://search.yahoo.com/yhs/search?...&hsimp=yhs-004
So, I purchased the following for $25.00, and it works like a charm.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/281322389736?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AITThat was my solution, but they do have newer single DIN units whit built in Bluetooth.
While I am not familiar with this particular Jensen model, I don't think this is what I was asking for. I knew there are existing single-din flip out screen units that work with Android and iOS, but this particular model came out 3-4 years ago and Android Auto was only announced last year. Just because it works with both platforms doesn't mean it's Carplay/Android Auto ready.
Generally, the group is fairly helpful if there is an answer. Sometimes no one replies to a post, and other times you get a lot of responses.
Remember that courtesy goes a long way, as most members are here to help you.
Enough said.....
I just picked up a 2000 with the Sport package and would love to do the same thing. Mine has the Bose audio so I'm sure this complicates things. Without Nav, to keep the Bose, the minimally acceptable answer for me is to have Becker wire in a AUX jack (that plays from the TAPE selector) but that's just music.
I don't have the car in front of me but the suggestion to move the HVAC panel is sound. I had a Cayman and this is exactly what Porsche did to accomodate a double DIN Nav unit. Since these W202s never had Nav though, I'm sure the mounting bezel is going to need fabrication. Otherwise, as mentioned, it's the flip up, single DIN model.
how hard is it to move the cofort controls? are the wires long enough to move from the top to below the radio?
also does it just "sap inn" or does some sort of fabrication have to be made?
i know it isn't the version with the climate control, but i just took the front of another w202 and cut it up to fit, same for the frame and bolted the radio in place, i did had to lose my cigarette compartment, but still worth it
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