FM Modulator Install Question

[Louie]

I’m trying to get my iPod to play through my Porsche sound system. The problem is that I live in the SF Bay area and there is no free FM spectrum here, so simple FM transmitters like the iTrip or Belkin don’t work well. At the moment, I am using the low tech cassette adapter approach. The sound quality is not great, I hate having that long wire snaking out of the cassette deck, and for some reason, I have to insert the cassette adapter into the head unit several times before the stereo system plays music from my iPod.

My Porsche is equipped with PCM-1 and a CDC-3 changer in the trunk. If I understand correctly, having the CD changer eliminates the possibility of using the Becker aux input cable.

Searching the internet for a solution, I stumbled onto a website that sells FM modulators.

http://shop.store.yahoo.com/csexpo/fmmodulator.html

These units sit in line with the antenna: The modulator has an antenna input that connects to the car’s antenna and an antenna output that connects to the head unit. This allows the modulator to cut-off the antenna connection and send just the modulated iPod signal to the head unit. The iPod connects to the modulator’s line input.

I purchased one of the modulators just to see how well it works. The problem that I am having is sliding out the PCM-1 unit in order to access the antenna input at the rear. I believe that it is a Becker unit but I don’t see any place to insert removal keys. Does anyone know how to remove the PCM-1 unit?

I just want to kludge the modulator in to see how it works. If it works well, I will have my dealer install it properly.

Thanks in advance for any help.

--Louie

FYI: While looking for a way to mount the iPod in the car, I ran across the ProClip system.

http://www.proclipusa.com

I ordered the Porsche 911 mount and the iPod holder. If anyone is interested, I can post a review after they arrive and I have had a chance to try them out.

[Loren]

Remove the two dash switch side pieces (with the switches but not part of the PCM I). On the side of the PCM unit there are spring clamps. Push those in to release the PCM I unit and pull straight out.

[Louie]

Hi Loren,

Thanks for the quick reply! :)

I'm probably being a little dense here, but my car doesn't seem to have separate switch side pieces next to the PCM-1 head unit.

(I'll try to attach a pic of my PCM-1 unit. These things never seem to work for me.)

My car has a single carbon fiber piece that holds the switches and surrounds the PCM-1 unit as well as the center air vents. Do I have to remove the carbon fiber surround? Does it just pull off or is there some secret removal method?

Sorry for being such a dunce. :(

--Louie

[Loren]

Yes loosen and move the horseshoe piece. The easiest method is to use a butter knife under the bottom edge with a soft cloth to protect the leather and CF. You do not need to remove any switches - just let it dangle.

Then press in on the spring clamps and pull the PCM unit until you can see connectors.

[airtire]

Go the easy way. I have a Roady XM radio and they have a new Cigarette Lighter FM Modulator, $29.95 at Best Buy. You do not have to get behind the dash, etc. I used it to connect to my MP3 player as well as the roady.

[Tool Pants]

Anyone think it is time for a work on cars day in the San Jose area?

[Louie]

Thanks Guys,

This is just the info I was looking for. :D

Loren (I think):

I would like to make a contribution to RennTech.org, but I would prefer writing a check. Is there an address to which I can send a donation?

--Louie

[ard.]

At the risk of bumping an old thread, the new PCM 2 or 2.1 has FOUR frigging clips, the upper two are not visible, being hidden by plastic.

Without the correct tools you need 5 or 6 hands- 4 for the 4 clips, then one or two to wiggle the POS out.

Study the sides, and you will see the bottom clip... study above it and you'll see what looks like the same constrution that disappears under the black plastic- yes, there are clips under there.

A