I have XM radio on my Xmas wish list. My question is who has XM in their KR? What would you recommend?

It would be nice just to replace the head unit with an in dash CD changer with built in XM but I don't even think those exist for for F-150s.

TIA

Pooh

 

I'm running XM (as is Joe (KRSC02)). He is running an Alpine headunit...

I'm running a Pioneer HU...

Both have pros and cons, Joe has a second or third generation XM head unit thus, everything scrolls on his display whereas mine doesn't. That's a HUGE plus for him. I got XM early on though...

I don't know of a HU that is a multi-disc w/ XM ready but, it might exist. I suggest that you check out crutchfield.com. If you decided to order your stuff from them and end up spending more than $200, I have a code that you can enter to save you $20.

If you decide to keep your existing head unit, you will either have to get the SkyFi unit or a FM Modulated unit (which is what I started off with). Both are nice but, the SkyFi can be removed and used elsewhere so, that is a plus.

Not sure, specifically, what you're looking for from an answer standpoint but, I can tell you that you won't be sorry with the XM. I do have some pics in my gallery...

RP

 

I have the XM Delphi portable unit in my Expedition. I can take it out with a click of a button and bring it into my office during the day. It certainly adds clutter to the front of the truck, but I am 95% satisfied with the programming.

 

RP,

You answered it mostly, I remember you posting awhile ago concerning adding your low profile XM antenna.

I was thinking about the Delphi SkyFi but it connects using a tape adapter right? With the Delphi unit I was concerned about sound quality and ****pit clutter.

I was mainly looking for head units that could easily replace the stock Ford unit without hacking the dash etc since I will sell the truck in a couple to a few years and may want to put the stock unit back in. I am not an audiophile and the stock unit sounds OK to me, I don't want to dump tons of cash on subs and amps but I really would like XM as the FM reception in my area is pee-poor to unbelievable and I want to avoid a lot of cables and mounting brackets etc up front.

Looking on xmradio.com they have several units that say "perfect for GM/Chrysler vehicles" but none for Ford

How did you run the cable for the XM antenna (e.g. how much drilling etc is required)?

I'll check Crutchfield

Esquire59

Does the unit plug into the cassette deck, and how does it sound? It uses an external magnetic antenna correct?

Thanks all

Pooh

 

Pooh,

Zero drilling. Notta... none.


My antenna wire runs into the cab through the third brake light hole and runs under the headliner, down the pillar and over to the XM reciever which is behind the passenger side right foot kick panel. Honestly, the wiring wasn't much... very simple and, ask Dave, I'm VERY electrically challenged.

The new antennas, from what I understand, are all magnetic. I sure wish mine was... it's stuck on but, I'll deal with that when I have to... I have the first generation antenna... the one that looks more like a black pimple on the hood. *POP*

RP

 

RP,

I think I've decided on the Delphi Roady with an FM modulator as I'm assuming the stock unit does not have line/aux inputs.

I plan on (once I find a mounting spot) mounting the tuner in the passenger kick panel and running the modulator into the antenna on the stock head unit. I'll wire the power to the accessory block in the fuse box. I think I may initially try the "under wiper cowl" mounting spot using the grommet in the passenger side kick panel area (that thread was pretty helpful). This all seems do-able and will reduce the ****pit clutter I think.

One question, how difficult is it to get to the rear of the stock unit?

Thanks for the help (still searching the board )

Pooh

 

Getting to the rear of the stock HU is cake, if you have the DIN removal tools...

You've probably noticed the two tiny holes on both sides of the HU... this is how you remove the unit. Go to AutoZone or somewhere like that and get the Radio Removal Tool (sometimes called DIN tools).

RP

 

For what it's worht-try some double sided tape and mount your antenna on the dash right up by the windshield. I have the delphi- ski-fi and it works great on mine. I bought a bracket from bracketron and it works very well on my unit.
BD

 

Hey PB..

If you get your equipment and such before Oct 31st, I can get you a $20 rebate as a referral. Let me know...

kingranch@hotmail.com

 

Thanks for the offer RP,

I won't be getting the gear until Xmas though (it's my present, SUPRISE!). I guess I shouldn't complain about being able to pick my own presents though

hmmm... where can I get a cheap supercharger? Fathers Day isn't that far off he! he!.

 

No problemo man. You can ask dufunnel about the SC...lol!


RP

 

Pooh, sorry for the late response, I forgot about this thread for a few days. Yes, the Delphi runs through a cassette player. You probably don't even have one, do you? I'm a music/sound/quality purist. That being said, I can't believe how well it sounds coming through the deck. The plusses outweight the minusses on this unit given its portability. I take it all over the place, home, office, vehicle, tailgates, etc.

I crave objectivity so I'll like to give you both sides:
Plusses: Portability is the key, the unit is nice with three display selections, a memory for tunes you want to recall titles of, remote control.

Minusses: For completely wireless presentation, some drilling is going to be required. Runs through a tape deck. Doesn't get reception in parking garages or tunnels. The antenna will have to be placed outside somewhere (I have mine on the dash of my car). The antenna is similarly shaped as a computer mouse but only about 1/2 the size.

Hope this helps. BTW, here's a link for you for further evaluation.