DVD Install - Olds Silhouette/Venture

[SN95GT50]

I will be installing a DVD player in the dash (center console) of my Olds Silhouette. The unit is a single din size and I would like to install it directly below the lower bank of switches. This area currently has a cigarette lighter and a small bin. Directly below this is a lorger bin. Dows anyone know how to remove just the panel that has the cigarette lighter? I removed 2 screws in the larger bin below and the whole assembly moves out until the end of the cigarette lighter wires. how do you detach the wire from the cig lighter? I may just cut the wires and then put a connector in.

Also, does anyone make an insert to hold a single din unit in this hole? Is this where they mount the factory installed dvd player?

Thanks, any info would be appreciated.
SN95GT50

[SN95GT50]

Well, I got it...

Pull hard enough and the bin/cig lighter will pull out. Once this was out, I checked the width, about 3/8" too narrow, well atleast it was before I took the dremel to it. I took out some plastic from both sides and slid it in. I then hot glued a piece of wood towrds the back for the DVD player to sit on. I then put velcro on the wood and the DVD player, perfect fit. And it looks great.

It will look nicer if I cut the bin piece to get the covers for the edges, but before I do that I want to see how much a new one will cost in case I want to take the DVD player out.

I used the Cig lighter as a 12V source to the DVD player I will call Chevy or Olds tomorrow about a switch to disable the complete system, this switch would mount in the lower switch bank.

SN95GT50

[Wubs]

How did you connect the audio to the existing stereo - are you using:

1. FM transmitter?
2. Headphones only?
3. Some kind of an adapter (if so, which make & model)?

-thanks

[SN95GT50]

I used an FM modulator, works great, just get one with an adjustable frequency and mount it where you can adjust it. Hook up is simple, 12V, ground and L/R. This allows the kids to use the headphones in the back (if you have them) while you listen to the CD or tape in the front.

Good Luck,
SN95GT50

[cdru]

Don't forget that installing a DVD screen in such a position is technically illegal if it is in view of the driver.

[SN95GT50]

Originally Posted by cdru

Don't forget that installing a DVD screen in such a position is technically illegal if it is in view of the driver.

I don't think anyone said anything about mounting a monitor at all in this post. My original post referred to installing a DVD player in the dash, it makes no mention as to where the monitor will be mounted.

In addition, monitor placement where a driver can see it is unsafe, but then again using a cell phone is as well, IMHO. But, I did ask a Police Officer whether it was illegal, he said it depended on the area, some places it is other places it is not. I suspect it will be illegal at some point, which begs the question, what about nav. systems.

Stepping into flame retardent suit as I type...

SN95GT50

[cdru]

I do apologize. I misunderstood you. You did say dvd player but I envisioned dvd screen/player. Stand alone players can be mounted anywhere AFAIK.

And I agree that a DVD monitor within viewing range of a driver can be unsafe, similar to a cell phone. However, a cell phone doesn't require the same visual attention that watching a movie/video would.

Also, in some areas (mine specifically) navigation systems get an exemption from the video screen laws. Most navigation systems don't require full time viewing and also have audio directions so you don't have to take your eyes off the road. Apparently they want you to pull over to the side of the road to enter your address in but I bet most don't (unfortunately).

Anyways, my message wasn't meant to criticize you. It was more just heads up. Not every thinks about stuff like that.