I would like to be able to use an ipod with the factory stereo's in my Screw, Expy as well as my Crown Vic. Because of this I have been considering one of the FM transmitters. I see there are hundreds of different ones available so I assume they are very popular. Are any of these better than the rest? Is there an easier way?

 

If you are going to go with the FM transmitter, you get what you pay for. typically, the ones that run off your 12V outlet and are more than like 60 dollars are pretty decent
honestly i would suggest running a stereo cable to the back of your HU
this might be more than you want to spend on this, but here is alpine's newest iPod solution
http://www.alpine-usa.com/US-en/prod...X-10&view=iPod

there probably are other brands that do it for cheaper

 

That is nice but I want something a little more low tech. What kind of cable would I have to run to the head unit? Sorry for the dumb question, but I really have no idea how to accomplish my goal, which is to simply be able to transfer my Ipod between 3 vehicles.

 

http://www.crutchfield.com/App/Produ...MMOD01&tp=1701

These are nice. They are like the FM transmitters that plug into your 12V lighter, but hard wired into the antenna, for much less interference. But its hard wired so stays in one vehicle. It sounds like you want to be able to use in in different vehicles, so I would pick up something like this http://www.crutchfield.com/App/Produ...21IP163&tp=120
You can get similar ones all over the place. Basically it plugs into your IPOD and then sends the signal over a predetermined FM station, you just tune into the station. You will get a little interference, but usually not too bad.

 

Between me and a few buddies, we have been through every Belkin FM transmitter and they are all garbage. I am currently trying to find a better solution.

 

Have you tried one of these hardwired FM modulators I used one on my old explorer and It worked real well. Pretty much CD quality sound.

http://www.crutchfield.com/App/Produ...MMOD01&tp=1701

You can get them just about anywhere. I think my local walmart, and Meijer have them.

They are easy to install, just need a 12v source to tap into, and plug it into the antenna port on the back of the radio.

 

Thanks for the info guys. I may try one of the FM transmitters first. Any more suggestions on which ones are best?

 

Monster has a pretty good FM transmitter for the Ipod:
http://www.amazon.com/Monster-iCarPl.../dp/B00019068G
But I personally would go with a PIE adapter if you're running your stock head units.
However they are pricey, and since you have the 3 vehicles to use, then the Monster Iplay would be a good choice on a budget.

 

PIE adapters:
for the 01 SCREW- FRDR-AUX
for the 98 crown vic- FRDN-AUX
for the 05 expy- FRD04-AUX

check them out here

the only thing is that these don't charge your Ipod, at least I don't remember if all 3 don't, but it's a start for you to check out.

BTW your stereo must have the AUX button for these to work

 

I had a few differnt generic FM transmitters that all worked about equally well.

 

Be sure to get one that charges your iPod as it plays. I have one I used when I drove the company van 20+ hours to Louisiana, and 20+ hours back. I don't remember the brand, it's in my desk at work. I'll check it and let you know later today. It worked great!

- NCSU

 

Super Glue

 

Anyone tried one of these?

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage....=1202650467219
or
http://www.autotoys.com/x/product.php?productid=6090
I was gonna buy it except it says 05-08 F-150. I am curious if it will work with my 04. Since the pizza faced nerd had no clue.

 

Wandell,

As most have said, the FM transmitters aren't great but they are easily portable. I used a DLO one in my truck (2002) but I wasn't using a factory stereo. It wasn't bad, I just can't stand any static. Drives me crazy so when the station would get fuzzy, I couldn't handle it. My wife has a volvo with no other options, so we had to get an FM transmitter. We started with a Belkin which was to be honest, crap. Way too much interference. The one we're using right now is pretty good for a transmitter. Its a Kensington LiquidFM transmitter. We have had good luck with it. But it is hit or miss. If you read reviews, you will find an equal amount of people that hate it. This is true amongst just about all FM Transmitters. Now, the one complaint a lot of people have about trying to turn up the volume on their ipod and it doesn't do anything to the volume on their stereo is silly. Its not supposed to. It has the connection through the ipod dock connection so that it will also charge the ipod. This is also a cleaner input to use. A really nice feature is that you just press the button on the side of the transmitter and it searches for the best station in the area you are located. Then you just tune your dial to match it. Keeps you from having to hunt for it manually while driving.

Not sure if this helped at all, but just thought I'd contribute what I could.

 

http://www.ford-parts-direct.com/pro...TOKEN=57923245