A/C upgrade

[Azmp1]

Hi all, I’m finally getting around to upgrading my center console from the jumper seat to full console on my 14 express. The console I bought also came from a 2017 model, and also included the full front console with auto A/C. I currently have a generic A/C with three dials. im Assuming it isn’t just a plug a play swap.. and I would need additional modules? Or Is it even possible to upgrade from standard A/C to auto A/C? If so is there a thread, directions, or any DIY write ups on that? Thanks!

 

[SitKneelBend]

Hi all, I’m finally getting around to upgrading my center console from the jumper seat to full console on my 14 express. The console I bought also came from a 2017 model, and also included the full front console with auto A/C. I currently have a generic A/C with three dials. im Assuming it isn’t just a plug a play swap.. and I would need additional modules? Or Is it even possible to upgrade from standard A/C to auto A/C? If so is there a thread, directions, or any DIY write ups on that? Thanks!

@Mpgrimm2 can tell you what you need and sell you the harnesses. Short answer is, yes it's possible, it's not plug and play and you don't have to go auto if you don't want to.

 

[Mpgrimm2]

Need to know...

What year is your truck?
1500?

what radio you originally had?
(Ra2/5.0" w/phone & VR buttons on wheel & mics on mirror?).

or Factory installed 8.4 Radio with Single Zone MTC ?

Pictures help.

 

[Azmp1]

@Mpgrimm2 i have a 2014 1500 express. I used to have ra1, but upgraded to ra2, sometime ago, along with an auto dimming mirror that has a mic in it To have full functioning Bluetooth. I have no steering wheel controls for audio. which pictures should I post?

 

[Mpgrimm2]

Pictures of the HVAC controls/radio & dash area.

What mirror header harness part number did you use for the mirror upgrade? (Pop off the side dash panel to see it)

Have a BuCam? Where does it display?

 

[Azmp1]

Pictures of the HVAC controls/radio & dash area.

What mirror header harness part number did you use for the mirror upgrade? (Pop off the side dash panel to see it)

Have a BuCam? Where does it display?

Alright, this is what I got And the pic of the harness that is going into the mirror. When I upgraded ra1 to ra2, it was plug and play, I just had to run the harness to the new mirror. Also, here are the new ac control that came with the console I bought. I have no intention on upgrading the ra2 to another Uconnect radio, I want to get an aftermarket android unit, but have To wait and see if I will end up using the current ac control, or able to upgrade to the new ac, as android unit compatibility changes based on ac type.
oh sorry, no backup cam, but would like to add one as I upgrade the head unit.

 

[Mpgrimm2]

The 8.4 bezel also requires a compatible 8.4 radio (normally), & 1500 HVAC module at a minimum. If you want to just have the 8.4 HVAC system as if stock for an aftermarket radio, you also need some sort of compatible CanBus interface adapter (typically) like idatalink Maestro or PAC Radio Pro bezel/interface kit. (Maybe it's built into your particular aftermarket radio? ... Maybe not).

 

[Azmp1]

The 8.4 bezel also requires a compatible 8.4 radio (normally), & 1500 HVAC module at a minimum. If you want to just have the 8.4 HVAC system as if stock for an aftermarket radio, you also need some sort of compatible CanBus interface adapter (typically) like idatalink Maestro or PAC Radio Pro bezel/interface kit. (Maybe it's built into your particular aftermarket radio? ... Maybe not).

Got ya. So basically, by the sound of it, if I’m going to upgrade to the aftermarket android radio, it may just make sense to keep the current ac, otherwise it becomes pita lol

 

[SitKneelBend]

Got ya. So basically, by the sound of it, if I’m going to upgrade to the aftermarket android radio, it may just make sense to keep the current ac, otherwise it becomes pita lol

Personally I'd stick with what you have if you're going aftermarket. I actually like the simpler controls better.

 

[Azmp1]

Personally I'd stick with what you have if you're going aftermarket. I actually like the simpler controls better.

Yeah that’s what I’m thinking. Doesn’t seem worth it.

 

[SitKneelBend]

Yeah that’s what I’m thinking. Doesn’t seem worth it.

I haven't had a RA2 radio in 7-8 years but I'm still holding onto the lower end bezel with integrated controls in case my 8.4 dies and I move to aftermarket.