assembler_head

I also purchased a 6 disc CD changer unit. It replaces the existing single disc CD unit that's contained in the radio / climate control package that reside in the center of the dash. I need to pull the unit, swap out the single disc for the 6 disc changer, and re-install the unit. Here lies my question. I was trying to remove the radio / climate control package from the center dash. I got everything out fine (even removed the hidden bolt) up to the point of disconnecting the antenna and the four plug connectors. I just couldn't seem to be able to pull the unit out far enough to effect the disconnections. I did not remove the vent grill that resides immediately above the radio unit. Rather than tempt fate and break something, I buttoned everything back up. Does anyone out there have a trick for disconnecting the plugs on the radio / climate control unit? Is there a certain sequence to tackle the plugs? Perhaps a certain access (driver side, passenger side, ??) that works best? I'm sure there must be something simple that I'm overlooking here. I hope someone can point me in the right direction.

WRXtoRX8

curious to know what you got yours for as i see on ebay they are going for $115 now? any place cheaper?

05TiGr8Lady

We never did get a couple of the plugs disconnected, so we let the unit sort of dangle for a while... lol

Don't know if you already saw it, but check out this thread. It was for installing the MP3 unit, but the process is the same:

https://www.rx8club.com/showthread.p...ht=install+mp3

A few of the specific quotes from the thread so you don't have to search through it:

"The second problem I had was getting the head unit out far enough to get a hand behind it to unfasten the connectors. After disconnecting the two heater control connectors I was able to pull it out a little further, but still nowhere near far enough. After much cursing and gentle tugging, I was eventually able to shine a flashlight in behind, to discover that the wiring loom and antenna cable were both tied back to the main loom with blue tape, which was greatly reducing the available slack. After a bit more tugging and jiggling, I was able to get a kitchen knife back there and sever the tape, which finally allowed me enough slack to gain access to the plugs and disconnect them. Talk about a PITA! Perhaps not all cars have the looms tied back that way - I can't believe anyone could have gotten a hand back there with the minuscule amount of slack that mine had."

"Wow, it took me an hour and a half to remove the audio unit, and 15 minutes to install it. My worst foe was the BIG main audio connector. Even after ripping the blue tape holding it with the other wiring, I still only a 1/4" gap (or less) between the top of that plastic tray and the bottom of the unit. Here is one thing that may help the next installer - look at the picture someone posted showing the rear of the audio unit removed. Note there are some heatsink channels on the underside one larger roud one, and a narrow one next to it. Note the proximity and angle from the groove to the connector clip. Insert your small screwdriver into that groove, try to match that angle, and push up and out. Keep trying, you WILL get it."

"the hardest part was indeed getting those connectors off...i didn't have to cut any tape at all, i just took the bottom 2 off, the left one you can depress the latch and the right one you'll need your key or a flat head to push in the latch...then you can basically, but carefully, pull the unit out to expose the upper 2 which are both very easy to remove, granted you have skinny hands and wrists like me..."

assembler_head

Thanks for the post and the link to the DIY. It really helped. I got to the unit in no time at all since this is the second time through. Pulled the two plugs on the driver's side (heater controls). This let me pull the unit out further. From there I was able to reach in and tear off the previously mentioned blue tape on the main wiring harness. This gave me enough room to pull the unit out and disconnect the final two connectors and the antenna. The DIY for the iPod installation was a real time saver on pulling the single CD unit and replacing with the 6 CD unit. Everything in reverse was buttoned up (including putting all tools away) in about 15 minutes. Total time for install was slightly over an hour.

So for $100, and a couple of skinned knuckles, I now have a 6 CD changer.

05TiGr8Lady

Woohoo, congrats! You're welcome. Yeah, $100 and skinned knuckles, not bad... I was quoted over $500 by the dealer, so this was great.

Next up... puddle lights! (see the Group Buy on them)

CarAndDriver

I bought one of the changers, but have yet to tackle the deconstruction of the dash. Thank goodness for this site, because I don't think I could do it w/o the detailed instructions and pics on here.

Dremd911

I bought one of these and was definately afraid of installing it myself....buying it so cheap on ebay i wondered if it was even going to work but my doubts were put to rest on friday....I had an appointment at the dealership for a heating control *** to be changed and when i was in i asked about a 6 cd changer install and how much it would cost....GUES WHAT its only $39.50 for labor 1/2 an hour charge....the unit costs about $500.00 was what the gentleman at the store said...so if your uncomfortable taking apart your dash get it installed at a mazda dealership for $40

THANKS FOR SAVING ME over $400.00.......i would advise anyone to get a 6 cd changer from this ebay seller at $100 well worth it...works perfectly and i didnt have to install anything...i feared the cost of installation but it costs nothing......

rx8it

Your dealer gave you an exellent quote. I called mine, and was given a price of $85 + tax. I decided to install mine that I got from this ebay seller, and it was EASY. I dreaded the BOLT that everyone was talking about, so happened that the bold on my radio was already out. I dunno how? Anyway installation took me a good 45 mins, and it works like a charm. My dealer also gave me a price quote of close to $700 if I ordered a changer through them...wutta rip off!

darkest_sunrise

Well, I purchased the CD changer from Carlo after seeing things worked out for people here. However I noticed that the CD changer is not the specific model number for a Mazda RX-8. Now can anyone help me with this? Does everyone who's installed theirs indeed have a CD Changer not for an 8? Is it just the same thing or does it not really matter? I would just like to know this since I don't want to take the thing apart and realize I got a bum deal.

rx8it

From what I've read, all of the CD/MD/Cassette players are modular. Which means the CD changer from a Mazda 6 can be used in an MX5 which can be used in an RX8. A way Mazda can cut costs across the board for it's different models. The CD changer is a jewel. Installed mine a few months ago and it's fantastic! Install yours dude....and enjoy!

05TiGr8Lady

^+1!

RiX-8

It's Legit !!!

maskedferret

iTrader: (1)

I just recently ordered an iPod integrating extension (AudioLink), and just stumbled upon this find... Does replacing the CD unit change your effective firmware version? Those of you that have gotten the CD changer from this person; what is the reported firmware you have? (BTW, I have a 2006 car with 9.8x firmware revision on the single CD player).

maskedferret

iTrader: (1)

Anyone? C'mon... next time in your car; while the FM radio is on, press & hold the "text" button... while holding it down, press and hold the "1" button. Pretty please? =D *crosses fingers that it is >= v9.55* I've already emailed the seller asking if they know... I'll call tomorrow after school if no response yet.

Tamas

iTrader: (1)

Why would replacing the CD unit change the firmware of the whole head unit?

maskedferret

iTrader: (1)

I just don't know how integrated the electronics for the headunit system are in the CD drive is all... If not at all, then consider me satisfied! I'm ordering the unit.

PRX8

Buying mines tonight, should receive it soon, will post pictures of how the installation went ...