DIY Network

Vehicle Audio/Video Upgrade: TV, DVD, Satellite Radio, Game Console and More Bruce Bonebrake undertakes a conversion on a Pontiac Aztek that brings home entertainment to the great outdoors. From "Weekend Mechanic" episode WKM-412

Bruce and Audiovox field technician Anthony Catapano inspect the a/v components prior to installation.

In this project, Weekend Mechanic host Bruce Bonebrake transforms a Pontiac Aztek into the ultimate camping and tailgating vehicle by installing several high-tech components.

Electronic technician Anthony Catapano from Audiovox joins Bruce in the installation of an audio and video system including an overhead TV with a DVD player and video games.

They also install a satellite radio and a DC 12-volt to AC 110-volt converter which allows the use of home appliances such as a blender or an additional TV.

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Upgraded stereo system and satellite radio unit, installed.

Project Overview

If you camp or use your vehicle for tailgating, this is a fantastic set of projects for you. We install cool electronics that will make your camping and tailgating trips a real pleasure, including a TV to watch the game on and a state-of-the-art entertainment system. We also install a power inverter for all the appliances you'll want to have on hand.

First Bruce and Anthony install an improved audio system with satellite radio. Then they add a ceiling mounted TV/DVD player and complete the wiring. Bruce installs a DC 12-volt to AC 110-volt converter which allows the use of home appliances such as a blender or an additional TV. He also installs a game controller in the back as well as the satellite radio antenna. Bruce the finishes the installations and wiring. He then demonstrates camping additions including the Aztek's fold out tent and air mattress, a portable grill, travel fireplace, camping table, 3-way refrigerator (12-volt, 110 volt and LP gas) and solar charger for accessories such as cell phones and portable computers.

The DVD player install kit

DIY Difficulty Rating for the Project: Since there's a lot of wiring involved, we gave this project a difficulty rating of 3 on a 5-point intermediate-level scale. Allow yourself the whole weekend to complete all of the projects.

Important: Included here is a basic summary of the steps in this automotive procedure as shown in the episode. These steps are general guidelines that are applicable to most vehicles. With any particular vehicle, there may be procedures, specifications, settings, tolerances, components, etc. that are specific to that vehicle. There are also variations according to the type and brand of repair-kit or replacement parts you select. Always consult your vehicle's service manual when undertaking significant automotive repairs, and read and follow the manufacturer's directions and precautions that come with your kit or replacement parts.

Tools used for the installations

Tools and Materials

In addition to standard auto-mechanic's tools (wrenches, ratchets, extenders, screwdrivers, nut-drivers, torque wrench, etc.), some of the tools required for this project include:

A/V system installation kit
satellite radio installation kit
volt meter
wire stripper
electrical supplies, connectors, etc.
cordless drill
hole saw bit
utility knife

Safety Alert: As a standard safety precaution, always disconnect the vehicle's negative battery cable before you begin work on any electrical or mechanical components.

Safety Alert: Always wear eye protection and follow proper safety precautions when working with power tools or pneumatic tools. Also wear eye protection any time you are working underneath a vehicle.

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