I am sure this has been asked before, but I'll ask again.

I am going to be putting a 10 disk Kenwood CD changer in my truck. I have a 2000 F-150 Supercab with captains chairs. Where would the best location be? Under the drivers seat, under the rear seat, or in the center console? If in the console, would that mean I would have to do away with the storage basket that sits in it?

I'd like to hear some ideas.

Thanks.

 

I have a Kenwood 10 disc changer in my '01 SuperCrew. I mounted it upright in the console. It was the only practical place I could think to put it. Anywhere else and I wouldn't be able to change the magazine while I was driving. I didn't want to mount it anywhere that it could be seen from the oustide so that theives wouldn't invite themselves to my changer. Yes, I had to remove the tray tht sits in the console. It's too deep to fit in with changer upright. The changer I have is too wide to fit in the console sideways to make room for the tray. And it qould be too hard to reach if I mounted it flat. I really only had one choice. I plan to alter the shape of my try so that I can still use it. Hope this helps.

 

1) Accessibility: How important is it to you to be able to change cartridges while driving? I find I hardly need to with my JVC 12 disk unit. Heck, there's been times when I've gone weeks with the same cartridge in there, so having it within arm's reach wasn't a huge priority to me. So I put it right behind the seat in my regular cab Ranger. IF constant accessibility while the truck is moving is important to you, you'll probably want it in the console or undeneath your seat.

2) Concealability: Obviously, you don't want it in plain sight. But if there's any locking storage in your truck, it's definitely a good idea to consider putting the changer there. It's basically a second deterrent after your alarm and door locks. The thief is in, then if they go after the head unit they must first figure out that there is a changer attatched. And then they must figure out where it is. then they gotta pop the lock to get at it. This all takes time, which is a stereo thief's worst enemy.

3) How much storage space are you willing to give up? I know I never use my console except to dump junk like old atm receipts and other little scraps of paper I probably shouldn't be leaving in the truck anyway. IF this is the case for you then the console might be a good bet. If the changer fits, you might also consider the glove box. Assuming it locks, you'll be able to change cartridges while stopped at a light and you'll be able to lock it away.

If the choice were between the seat or the console, I'd go with the console so you don't have to be leaning foreward and reaching between your legs awkwardly. The important thing is, ask yourself how easily you want to be able to get to your CD's and which spaces in your truck are likely to remain used or unused. Also realize there's no rule saying it can't be moved if you decide you want it somewhere else. Experimentation may be in order.