DIY Network

LCD-Screen and DVD: Installation Prep Work From "Weekend Mechanic" episode WKM-311

	This 7-inch LCD video monitor is installed in a Mazda minivan. It attaches via a ceiling-mount and is secured to a slot on the back of the panel. The monitor on the left is a drop-down monitor that mounts directly onto the ceiling. Both monitors will be connected to a single DVD-player.
	Figure A

Small and economical television components are now widely available, and are becoming a hot accessory for the family van. In this episode, Weekend Mechanic host Bruce Bonebrake installs a DVD player, two LCD panels and a wireless headset system into a Mazda minivan. He begins by installing a pull down LCD panel near the front of the van. A smaller LCD is installed near the rear seat area. The wires are routed and connected so that a DVD player can be installed to provide sound and picture to the LCDs. A small radio unit is also installed so that the DVD sound can be played through the van radio. Once assembled, the system is tested to make sure that it functions properly.

The installation steps include making a few wiring connections, installing a mounting base on the ceiling, and connecting the audio and video components. In this first segment, we begin with an explanation of the components, and do some prep work for installation of the parts.

Materials:

In addition to standard auto-mechanic's tools (wrenches, ratchets, extenders, screwdrivers, nut-drivers, torque wrench, etc.) and the installation kits, some of the specialty tools (figure A) used in this episode include cordless drill, wire cutters and strippers, utility knife and wire hook. An air-compressor and set of pneumatic tools will is optional, but may be very helpful for this project.

DIY Difficulty Rating for the Project: This job requires some wiring and soldering, but the installations are all fairly straightforward and not unlike installing a home stereo-system. We gave it a difficulty rating of 2 on a 5-point intermediate-level scale. It took us about 8 hours to finish this job. Depending on the system you choose and your vehicle, your work time could vary. Allow yourself a full weekend to complete this project properly.

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LCD-Panel and DVD Installation: Introduction and Prep Work

The forward-mounted 7-inch LCD screem attaches via a ceiling-mount and is held in place by a slot on the back of the panel. This panel also comes with a credit-card sized remote-control (figure B).

We installed a backseat drop-down panel and DVD player as well. The system also incorporates an FM modulator (figure C) that enables the audio from the DVD to be played through the van's existing factory-speakers. The total cost for the system we installed was about $700.

Figure B

Figure C

Figure D

The forward video-screen is mounted to the ceiling. between the driver- and passenger-seats. When not in use, the unit can be closed to protect and conceal the screen (figure D). The unit incorporates two courtesy lights to illuminate the vehicle interior.

To mount the screen, we installed a plywood mounting-board above the headliner for attaching the bracket securely. (Some vans have an overhead frame that can be used for mounting.) It's not advisable to remove the entire headliner for this job, since headliner backing boards are easily broken or damaged. You merely need to drop down the front section of the headliner.

Following is a summary of the steps in the prep-work for the system installation.

• First, remove the overhead console by taking out the screws that secure it to the roof frame. With the screws removed, drop the console down from its headliner well (figure E). Disconnect the wiring harness that provides power to the console lights.

• Next, remove the overhead passenger-side sun visor (figure F) as well as the passenger-side grab-bar that's over the right front-door.

  Figure E

  Figure F

  
  

  
  

• Pop out and lower the trim pieces so that the headliner can be lowered to insert the mounting board (figure G).

• The front passenger-seat must also be removed so that the DVD player can be mounted to the floor under the seat. Remove the bolts securing the seat to the floor, and remove the seat from the van (figure H). This will also make it easier to wire the DVD player and route the wires down the side pillar to connect the DVD to the monitors.

  Figure G

  Figure H

  
  

  The DVD-player mounts beneath the passenger seat and is controlled using a dedicated sensor unit and hand-held remote.

  
  

Important: Included in this segment are the steps in this automotive procedure as shown in the episode. These steps are general guidelines that are applicable to most vehicles. With any particular vehicle, there may be procedures, specifications, settings, tolerances, components, etc. that are specific to that vehicle. There are also variations according to the type and brand of repair-kit you select. Always consult your vehicle's service manual when undertaking significant automotive repairs, and read and follow the manufacturer's directions and precautions that come with your kit or replacement parts.

Safety Alert: As a standard safety precaution, always disconnect the vehicle's negative battery cable before you begin work on any electrical or mechanical components.

RESOURCES :

The Complete Idiot's Guide to Trouble-Free Car Care
Author: Dan Ramsey
ISBN: 0028635833
Alpha Books

Auto Repair for Dummies
Author: Deanna Sclar
ISBN: 0764550896