Rear Entertainment System

GM_96LT4 · September 24, 2004

Hey guys,

I am down to the nitty gritty and I am ready to buy a 2004 Z-71 cc.

Two trucks are available, both have the 4.10's, trailering, and convenience package. However here is the breakdown:

1. Black, hard tonneau cover, stainless steel nerf bar, bed extender, and Rear Entertainment System.

2. Charcoal Grey, none of the above.

I like the charcoal grey but I would like to get the rear entertainment system. I figured that I could get the other stuff installed with little effort. I am concerned about the rear dvd system.

Has anyone installed the factory dvd system to their truck? Was it a direct bolt on, in terms, of wiring and mounting?

Has anyone installed an aftermarket version?

I did a search and didn't find much.

Thanks in advance.

Also, those with the hard cover, are you guys happy? I read a lot of post on covers and it appears that it's the same cover as Fold-Away, is that correct?

Thanks again.

Glenn

Shaners · September 24, 2004

PLaces like Circuit City will install a factory "look-a-like" DVD system for around $1200.

I've had them in my last 2 vans, and they are great if you have kids!!!

seadoons · September 24, 2004

I would try to stick with one that is factory installed - it is covered under the factory warranty and any extended warrantys you buy that way. The problem I see with having someone like Best Buy install it is if you start having any kind of electrical problems with the truck, the dealership could say that the aftermarket installation of the TV caused it and void your warranty.

If you really want all the options the black truck has but want it in Charcoal gray I am sure the dealer can find that exact truck for you somewhere. If the dealer wants the sale, he will find it.

Supurban · September 25, 2004

We have a 2004 Sub with the Factory RSE DVD. It was already on the truck, so I cannot quite answer your installation question. It really comes down to what features you expect from the DVD player.

Here are some things to consider about the factory DVD:

It is a pretty solid set up. Nicely integrated console. They did a clever side-by-side screen/player combo for sunroof equipped trucks. The screen is plenty bright and clear. For kids, the screen is plenty big. The screen is just big enough to block your view out the rear window in the center, but at least you can see around it a little.

A big time headache with the factory setup is that you cannot turn the screen around to the front. Not that I want to watch backwards when I am driving. But it is hard to see what is going on from the front seat when you are trying to start it up for the kids - especially with those DVDs that have multiple menus and do not autostart.

An aftermarket set up will most likely allow the screen to swivel around more. Bigger fold down screen means less visibility through the rear view mirror.

Looking back, I would still buy the factory unit.