I went ahead and ordered a new Metra dash kit and the PAC steering wheel control converter, and I plan on using them with an older Alpine HU, the 9813. Now, this unit came out of my previous car right when I got it, and so I never really used it. My question is on the install: do I need to run a direct line to the battery to power this HU, or can I connect the power cable to the power cable of the harness supplied by Crutchfield? Will it provide enough power to run the unit?

Never had to run a power line solely for a HU before, just want to be sure. Also, don't want to rip up my new car's interior already!

 

As long as your factory Z radio harness is un-modified, you can use it for power. The Crutchfield harness (metra) wires to the alpine harness just fine, did it a week ago. Going to the battery is definately not neccessary. The 9813 only puts out about 25-30 watts per channel RMS so definately not a problem running the factory stereo power wire. Good deck though! I still miss my 7894.

 

You are in luck man, I have an extra 7894 sitting right here next to me That was my first HU, and I had it in my 03 Z. Its yours if you need or want it, PM me.

I guess my last question was about the yellow, 12 volt battery connect wire... it says it needs a fuse, which I have.. this too can be connected to the Metra harness behind the dash no worries? I am soldering as we speak, but am saving that wire for last

 

Thanks for the offer man, but I just got an Alpine 9885 last week. The motorized face is pretty sweet, but I can't live without my iPod link.

Yeah you can definately use the fuse that comes with the alpine deck, but in my opinion, it is optional. Better safe than sorry, but of the hundreds of deck installs I did as an installer, I always just cut them off and really never had a problem with it. I might get flamed for this, but it is just my experience.

Like I said though, you can't go wrong with it on there. Thanks for the offer on the 7894. Definately post it up on eBay or the classifieds. I'm sure they are still sought after.

 

I hear you on the iPod link; this 9813 is only temporary, as I am going to pick up a 9887 in a few months, probably in the Spring when I start driving the Z again. I am going to be using an AUX line to an iPod until then... good, but not integrated like I want. I had a 9857 but it went with my Prelude when I sold it.

Where are you running your Full-Speed cable to? I was thinking about the cubby hole, but don't want the iPod sitting in there in the heat. Next spot is the glove box, but not sure if the cable will reach.