Help: 2004 Dodge Durango iPod Install

[WJoeTrojan]

Does anyone know the best way to install an iPod into the 2004 Dodge Durango? With no cassette player and poor radio reception in Los Angeles, I'd like to be able to go directly into the stereo, as well as setup a charger. Your help would be greatly appreciated!

[IDSmoker]

If you have the built-in 6-disc CD changer (built into the head-unit that is), then I'm afraid that you are SOL... like me.

I have the Navigation radio with 6-disc CD changer in my 2005 Magnum RT (great vehicle by the way!!!), and after doing a lot of research, I've come to the conclusion that a wired FM modulator is the only available option at the moment, unless you are willing to completly gut and replace the factory sound system.

This situation will remain, until the aftermarket finally manages to 'crack' the DCX can-bus communication protocol, and starts making products that support it, which will be another 3months to forever, depending on who you listen to.

Bitter... who, me? nah....

[WJoeTrojan]

IDSmoker: Thanks for the information. I'm assuming there are no auxiliary inputs on the back of the 6-disc model?

So, it looks like going with a new system is the way to go. I've read that Alpine has built a system integrating the iPod - I'll check that out.

Magnum - great car! Thanks again.
Joe

[IDSmoker]

No, there aren't any Aux inputs, but there should be a connection (10-pin square plug I think) for attaching the Mopar Sirius radio, which is what I've heard some of the aftermarket companies are trying to use to crack the system open.

Of course, there's also the Mopar DVD entertainment system that will supposed interface with the Navigation radio (I'm not sure about the other radios) using nothing but the can-bus!?!?

Obviously, someone out there knows how to interface with the factory radio systems, I just wish they would get off their butts and sell us a decent solution already!!!

[WJoeTrojan]

Amen! Thanks for your help.
Joe

[WJoeTrojan]

P.S. If you hear anything more, please post to this forum.

[raiders63]

The other place to keep an eye out is on the www.dodgetalk.com forum which is dedicated obviously to Dodge products. One of the forum is for audio products and spans all models of Dodge. A lot of people are looking for this. Dodge's CAN bus seems to be the issue from what I've read.

[WJoeTrojan]

Raiders: Thanks for your help. I'll check that out. If you hear anything more, please post to this forum!
Joe

[IDSmoker]

Someone has finally found a way to get an Aux audio input into the new DCX radios!

The only problem is that it currently requires you to have the satellite radio option installed, although people are currently working on finding a work around for this issue.

You can find more information in either this thread (http://www.300cforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=3806) on the Chryseler 300c Forum or in this thread (http://dodgemagnum.net/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=610&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=15) on the Dodge Magnum Net forum.

[GavinD]

There are direct connect adapters available for your truck. I recommend going with the neo ion because its easy to use / install and the sound quality is great. I have two and have been very happy with both. Do you know if your radio is the LAN one?

[WJoeTrojan]

I need your help here... :-) I'm not sure what I have in my 2004 Durango. It's the single disc CD player. So, what exactly do I need? I'm SO glad there seems to be a solution! Thanks for your help.
Joe

[IDSmoker]

GavinD: Unfortunately, that solution (and the other ones out there like it) won't work with any vehicle whose radio is part of the car's CAN-bus network, like the 2004 Durango, Magnum, 300c, etc.

[seamus0g]

I have an '04 Durango with the REC radio (6-disc in-dash changer) and am also interested in a solution that cleanly integrates the iPod though the AUX (aka Sirius option input on the back), and which would allow control of the iPod via the radio. Still waiting patiently… and am glad to see that Dodge/Chrysler has homologized on one set of radios fo all new models… fingers crossed for an integrated adapter solution…