5
To install a wired FM modulator
, first find a good mounting location. Keep in mind
that you will need to access your factory radio through its antenna input, as well as
connect the satellite radio tuner to the modulator.
Most FM modulators require a 12-volt connection to a switched (on/off) power
source. Since you have to remove your radio to get to the antenna input, you’ll have
easy access to the power and ground wires in your factory radio harness. If you don’t
want to splice into your factory wires, you can make the power connections at your
fuse panel. Look for empty fuse holders and insert fuse taps, which help you connect
wire to the fuse panel. You’ll also have a black ground wire that must be secured be-
neath a nearby screw that makes contact with bare metal on the body of the vehicle.
Following the instructions on your Crutchfield MasterSheet™ (available for most
vehicles), remove your receiver from the dash and unplug the antenna from the rear
of the unit. Plug the vehicle’s antenna cable into the antenna input on the FM modu-
lator. Next, run the output of the modulator to your receiver’s antenna input (certain
vehicles require an antenna adapter — use the online Vehicle Selector or call a Sales
Advisor to inquire about a specific vehicle). If this leaves slack in your antenna lead,
tie it up so it won’t interfere with safe vehicle operation.
Install the satellite radio tuner and make all of the audio connections at the FM
modulator. Determine which of the available modulation frequencies is least likely
to be shared by a strong local radio signal and tune the modulator to it before you
mount the hideaway box (on some models you can change this setting on the fly).
RCA patch cables (auxiliary input)
If your in-dash receiver has an auxiliary audio input, you can take advantage of the
option that gives you the best sound of all: RCA patch cables. You need to run the
cables from the cradle (they plug in here via a mini-jack connection) to your receiver’s
auxiliary inputs. You’ll get the fullest bandwidth response, and your system won’t be
susceptible to radio-wave interference.
Using an auxiliary input to connect a satellite radio tuner will
give you the best sound quality.
Satellite radio tuner connected via
wired FM modulator.
000SRADIG
®
Copyright 2005 Crutchfield Corporation
