Aftermarket/Stock Upgrade Help?

Midknight · Feb 17, 2020

Currently have the stock 5” RA2 in my 2014 Express. I’ve read most threads about upgrading to the various 8.4” units and the MTC and ATC conversions.

What I want to do is go with an aftermarket (Kenwood) head unit but use either the PAC bezel or the Scosche bezel.

I know PAC is claiming only use for 8.4 units but since we can convert to that I would assume it will still work with the right harness and parts. That’s my dilemma, would I just need the 7 speed harness and a module?

Similarly, with the Scosche I would buy a single zone bezel to transfer the knobs but still need harness and module to plug into the idatalink?

Since I haven’t pulled anything apart yet I was hoping to get some insight from some knowledgeable people on the subject.

Thanks in advance.

Mpgrimm2 · Feb 18, 2020

I don't generally support aftermarket setups but there have been a handful of folks that have done what you are talking about. They may monitor the 8.4 conversion thread.

A basic 7 speed conversion harness with 14-17 1500 HVAC module will get you to s basic 8.4 upgrade for a 13-17 RAx radio setup.

I will add that I have been told by a previous customer that the idatalink Maestro setup doesn't support Single Zone ATC since it isn't a standard HVAC configuration on the trucks (per their tech support) ... It's either Single Zone MTC or Dual Zone ATC. Not sure if the PAC bezel is similar or supports all 3 modes.

Dual Zone ATC is possible if you want to pull the dash apart to replace the plenum box/pass. blend door. StecoD and Ricks Ram have a thread with how to do it and I should be able to build it into a conversion harness setup now if required.

M² Mods.

Midknight · Feb 18, 2020

Thanks for the quick response.

Single zone MTC is all I want. I'm probably the minority but I really prefer setting my own fan speed and vent. The only reason I'm switching bezels is because I want a clean finished look without the filler space in the stock opening.

I do have a single zone 8.4 bezel in route to use with the Scosche or maybe I change my mind and decide to go UAx.

I understand you don't support aftermarket setups, does that mean I would not be able to get a harness through you? I just want to be clear.

Thanks

Mpgrimm2 · Feb 18, 2020

Yes, I can still provide the harness just can't offer much support on your setup.

I did see someone else's scosche bezel in person and observed that the button cutouts for the swapped MTC control board were a tight fit and would stick occasionally.

M² Mods.

Midknight · Feb 21, 2020

I've settled on two possibilities:

1. Find UAQ/UAS and stay FCA
2. Scosche and aftermarket

Sorry, one last question:
In either case could I use the 2018 module for the UAx? If that was the case I would order the harness and module while I figure the radio part out.

Mpgrimm2 · Feb 22, 2020

Midknight said:
I've settled on two possibilities:

1. Find UAQ/UAS and stay FCA
2. Scosche and aftermarket

Sorry, one last question:
In either case could I use the 2018 module for the UAx? If that was the case I would order the harness and module while I figure the radio part out.

Yes, you should be able to use either module. If you decide on a UAx get the 18 module but plan on adding the ATC wiring with the conversion harness to avoid hvac control issues common with the 18 radio upgrade (cheaper built in to harness vs added later)

M² Mods.

Aftermarket/Stock Upgrade Help?

Midknight

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Midknight

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