Anyone installed a Kenwood 281 in-dash?

[BigSwede]

With the speaker on front this seems like a viable option. The FJC has a double din factory stereo, toying with the idea of installing a single DIN stereo and a Kenwood 281 in that space. The Kenwood is smaller than standard DIN size, not sure what is the best way to deal with that.

Of course, heat buildup is a concern. But this will be for trail comms, not general yakking, so I don't expect many lengthy transmissions.

I would appreciate thoughts on install tech, and if this is just a plain Bad Idea from the ventilation standpoint.

 

[Longrange308]

I considered it in my Xterra, though I ultimately decided to install it under the center stalk instead. It was a much better option overall in terms of heat dissipation, access to the unit to pull it out if needed and to the antenna and power connections in the back.

 

[BigSwede]

Yeah... in my Trooper I have the 2M screwed to the side of the center console, which actually works pretty well... except I can't slide the passenger seat all the way forward if needed. The CB is in the dash, but since I am going away from CB I would rather have the 2M in the most prominent spot if it will work there.

 

[Longrange308]

https://flic.kr/p/nXMs2v

 

[jwhutch]

Great radio. Mine is on tge side of my consolenext tomy right knee.0, onboth vehicles.

 

[BigSwede]

https://flic.kr/p/nXMs2v

That's a good place for it. I don't have a convenient cubby like that though in the FJC.

 

[BigSwede]

I found a relevant discussion of this issue: http://www.eham.net/ehamforum/smf/index.php?topic=88348.0

I think I will try this, eventually.

 

[gahi]

I have one in a double din. works well.

 

[BigSwede]

Awesome, thanks. Did you do anything special to mount it? Looks like it is 6.3" wide, so I guess a 3/8" shim on each side might do the trick. What about a bezel?

 

[gahi]

I did use nylon spacers and longer mounting screws. For the bezel I just left it open. Hardly noticable from an angle, straight on you can see it. I have a pic somewhere. (or I should just go snap another)

 

[gahi]

 

[BigSwede]

Hey, matching Kenwoods!

Thanks for the pic, I am definitely leaning toward doing the in-dash install.