08 Sierra Kenwood Dnx5120 Install

[crimson080]

I just installed an aftermarket DNX5120 in my new Sierra SLT. I've installed a couple of aftermarket stereos -- this one was by far the most challenging, but definitely doable.

I didn't find anything posted for this, so I thought I'd throw out a few words and pics for anyone wanting to do the same thing.

First, I'm a big Crutchfield fan. I only bought one component from them on this, but they were, as usual, exceptionally helpful.

 

1. Removing the panel around the radio was a bit scary -- I believe there is a removal tool to help, but I worked around the edges per a previous post and it eventually came loose.

 

2. Factory removal was no issue. You need to remove the HVAC and accessory sections beneath the factory radio.

 

3. I installed an Axxess GMOS-LAN-02 to retain OnStar and other features. I recommend turning the attenuation up to around 3/4 and removing both jumpers. I installed a PAC SWI-JACK (Crutchfield) to retain steering wheel controls. USE THE INSTRUCTIONS FROM THE WEBSITE FOR THE SWI-JACK; they are much more useful than the included.

 

4. I had to cut the back panel out of the radio compartment to allow a good fit.

 

5. Running the GMOS-LAN-02 through the top of the compartment helped with the fit.

 

6. Final install:

 

I've got other pics if anyone is interested including splicing the SWI-JACK into the BCM.

[omegafiler]

Looks good man, very nice and clean install. How do you like the HU?

[takevin]

looks good, but in order for it to be a clean install wire tying or taping over the wires in a loom fashion. Thats just 18 years of installing talking thou lol

[crimson080]

Looks good man, very nice and clean install. How do you like the HU?

looks good, but in order for it to be a clean install wire tying or taping over the wires in a loom fashion. Thats just 18 years of installing talking thou lol

 

Thanks, fellas. I also appreciate the critique on the wires -- always ready to improve. I'm very pleased with the HU. Nav system works very well, it has excellent iPod interoperablility, and overall simple to move around in the menus. Definitely recommended.

[Hootowl]

did you replace your Bose or was it just standard radio.

[Lincoln30]

looks good, but in order for it to be a clean install wire tying or taping over the wires in a loom fashion. Thats just 18 years of installing talking thou lol

 

As an old installer the sloppy wires don't bother me nearly as much as the use of wire nuts. Never use wire nuts in a automotive application, there too much vibration and movement in a vehicle for these. You should, at least, use crimp connectors (I prefer "butt" connectors which is similar in style to a wire nut). Soldering is best and it's the way we did it at the shop I worked at (we give lifetime warranty on our installs).

 

Overall, I like what you have done and you seem to have the overall knowledge and intestinal fortitude to accomplish successful installs.

[crimson080]

did you replace your Bose or was it just standard radio.

 

Bose speaker sysem left in place.

[crimson080]

looks good, but in order for it to be a clean install wire tying or taping over the wires in a loom fashion. Thats just 18 years of installing talking thou lol

 

As an old installer the sloppy wires don't bother me nearly as much as the use of wire nuts. Never use wire nuts in a automotive application, there too much vibration and movement in a vehicle for these. You should, at least, use crimp connectors (I prefer "butt" connectors which is similar in style to a wire nut). Soldering is best and it's the way we did it at the shop I worked at (we give lifetime warranty on our installs).

 

Overall, I like what you have done and you seem to have the overall knowledge and intestinal fortitude to accomplish successful installs.

 

 

Thanks for the feedback.

[dietz4ibanez]

That thing looks pimp!

[shmelty]

did you replace your Bose or was it just standard radio.

 

Bose speaker sysem left in place.

 

 

What year is your Sierra? the PAC SWI-JACK at crutchfield says it is not compatible with my 08 Silverado.

[crimson080]

did you replace your Bose or was it just standard radio.

 

Bose speaker sysem left in place.

 

 

What year is your Sierra? the PAC SWI-JACK at crutchfield says it is not compatible with my 08 Silverado.

 

 

2008. I originally ordered a different PAC SWI, but a Crutchfield rep called and said the SWI-JACK would be an easier install. I recommend you give them a call. My steering wheel controls are working like a champ!

[Hootowl]

this works okay with all the bose speakers?

does it have better sound?

[crimson080]

this works okay with all the bose speakers?

does it have better sound?

 

No issues with the Bose speakers. Factory sounded decent, but improved with aftermarket.

[Hootowl]

this works okay with all the bose speakers?

does it have better sound?

 

No issues with the Bose speakers. Factory sounded decent, but improved with aftermarket.

 

send more pics please

[crimson080]

this works okay with all the bose speakers?

does it have better sound?

 

No issues with the Bose speakers. Factory sounded decent, but improved with aftermarket.

 

send more pics please

 

 

What kind of pics are you looking for specifically?