My buddy just bought a 2009 XLT with the Sync radio (this one http://imgur.com/gzwRxMT) - but not factory nav. He'd like to add nav and a backup camera to the truck. I'm finding a couple of options for replacing the factory unit and retaining Sync features and wanted to get a some opinions.

1. iDataLink Maestro ( ) and a Kenwood head unit

2. PAC MS-FRD1 ( ) and PAC SWI-RC ( )

There seems to be more information out there about option #1

I'm interested in option #2 as well since he is not limited to Kenwood head units and can get a good deal on a second hand Pioneer AVIC Z140BH.

Has anyone used either of these solutions? I'd like to get some feedback about functionality / ease of use / installation.

Thanks in advance![/quote]

 

Ive used the PAC SWI-RC before, works fine for SWC integration. The other adapters do retain SYNC, but not with the same level of functionality. You have to switch to the aux input for the USB and Bluetooth audio to work and of course, the audio commands do not apply to anything but items attached to the USB port.

If SYNC integration is important, may want to have him go with a factory NAV. If not, going aftermarket will get you in the door cheaper.

 

Yup i have tried both.

Idatalink Maestro beats the PAC stuff hands down.

Why:
In my f150 -2009 Lariat screw, I had the Avic-z110bt that I upgraded to the z130bt via software.

I JUST pulled all that out and installed a new Avic-8100nex with idatalink-maestro. Very easy.
I plan to put the older avic on my wife's Honda.

 

Just installed a Kenwood DNX571TR in my 2010 with the Maestro wiring harness and adapter for sync and steering wheel controls. Sync works better than before as I was able to add secondary functions to the steering wheel buttons through programming a second function when button is held longer than 2 seconds. Ordered kit from Crutchfield and their tech support was amazing when I had some questions about left over wires during installation..

 

Nice! I heard lots of good compliment from Kenwood stuff.