Another Sony CDX-F7700 install. Love the sound, able to hook up my iPod along with playing MP3 CD's way cool.

I installed my iPod into the flip down cover of the ashtray. If I ever need to restore the car to original I can replace the ashtray or actually the flip down cover. It's a modified Belkin Tune Dok holder that I cut the threaded part to about 1/2" in length. Next I hacked up one of the cup holders and removed the threaded inside part to make my own locking nut. I cut off a piece about 3/8" thick and beveled the corners.

After removing the actual ashtray part (open ashtray and then pull a bit to fully open, now grab the ashtray insert and remove) it left quite a large area but still not big enough for the power adapter end of my Monster iCharger. I made holes big enough for the dock end of the Monster iCharger in both the front and rear of the ashtray itself (not the insert). The iCharger cable runs through the ashtray and is plugged into a second cigarette lighter (tapped into existing one). This was wrapped to prevent any rattles and placed in the large opening behind the passenger airbag indicator. If anyone is looking for a place to stash wires, look no further. The 3.5mm --> RCA audio cable also runs through the ashtray and then plugs into the rear of the Sony HU.

To remove my iPod I simply disconnect the dock connector and then release the pattened air grip thing-a-ma-jig (okay is a friggin suction cup!).

Thoughts, comments and do-overs:
* I have adjusted the AUX input on the Sony HU to +6db (the max) and the iPod is still slightly lower in volume than an MP3 CD. Perhaps the Belkin Auto kit with its adjustable line out would compensate better. However for whatever reason I wanted a black connector, not a white one.
* I might purchase another tune dok and try to have the iPod holder stick out about 1/2" more. I can do this by making a spacer. I think I've cut my existing one too short to try and extend it out. This would give me a bit more room to access the switches behind the iPod.

Pictures can be found in my galery Click here



Edit: A BIG THANKS to DFWSBR, great photos and helpful information!!!

 

Looks good. Nice clean job. I've had all my dash apart like that too, but I had to do it just to fix the ashtray light!