Hardwire install in 2000 Ford Focus

[Sts10188]

So, after much thought, I have decided on hardwiring my iPod into my car. My plan (as of now) is to use an Aiwa CDC-X504 HU I have from my previous car (a 98 cavalier i totaled), which has a front AUX input. I'm thinking I can pick up a power socket from Radio Shack and wire it onto the harness for the stereo to avoid GL problems, plug a belkin auto kit modded to line-out into it, run the dock connector cable out, run the 3.5 mm plug out to the front input on the HU and hide everything else behind the dash. But I have some specific questions:
-Would this theoretically work?
-If I wire in the power socket to the power source for the HU, should I use the constant or switched power?
-Would everything fit behind the dash?
-Does anyone know a convenient place to have the dock connector cable come out, I want to be able to access the iPod while driving, i.e. no glovebox?

This is the best thing i can think of that is this cheap (<$100 retail, less if used Best Buy employee discount) especially because i dont have to buy a new HU and iPod interface.

Any and all comments would help as this is just an idea right now.

Thanks!

[mde83]

Originally posted by Sts10188
So, after much thought, I have decided on hardwiring my iPod into my car. My plan (as of now) is to use an Aiwa CDC-X504 HU I have from my previous car (a 98 cavalier i totaled), which has a front AUX input. I'm thinking I can pick up a power socket from Radio Shack and wire it onto the harness for the stereo to avoid GL problems, plug a belkin auto kit modded to line-out into it, run the dock connector cable out, run the 3.5 mm plug out to the front input on the HU and hide everything else behind the dash. But I have some specific questions:
-Would this theoretically work?

YES

-If I wire in the power socket to the power source for the HU, should I use the constant or switched power?

SWITCHED - Because when you turn off your car the iPod will go into Pause, then off. Otherwise it will always be on even though your head unit turns off. You may also want to consider wiring the extra cigarette lighter (power socket) to your car's existing cigarette lighter (both power and ground)

-Would everything fit behind the dash?

YES

-Does anyone know a convenient place to have the dock connector cable come out, I want to be able to access the iPod while driving, i.e. no glovebox?

DEPENDS ON THE LAYOUT OF YORU CAR. Some Possibilities are: Have it come out of the cigarette ashtray
AC vent
Cut a small relief into the bottom of your car's trim plate (with a dremel) and have the wire come out there

This is the best thing i can think of that is this cheap (<$100 retail, less if used Best Buy employee discount) especially because i dont have to buy a new HU and iPod interface.

Any and all comments would help as this is just an idea right now.

Thanks!

[GavinD]

Do you have a in dash changer?

[Sts10188]

No, the only thing in or hooked up to the factory unit is a tape deck. And im getting sick of the horrible sound quality from it.

[GavinD]

You should give www.mp3yourcar.com and see if they can help you out - I have bought two adapters from them and they work flawless... It's worth a shot.

[Sts10188]

I don't want to spend that much money, plus I want to add a cd player. I already have the HU so its jsut as matter of installing it.