Installing a 2019-2021 12.1 (UAX) Radio in 4th Gen RAM

[SitKneelBend]

Nope 18 .

Got it, I think I'm going to have to get a new Occupancy Restraint Module that accepts the new DS value being changed to DS - Ram 1500 as a proper BCM value to clear the error. I am going to contact Alexi with AlfaOBD though to see if it is an option he can add to the Android Version for selection OR if the Windows version can connect as a different BCM (similar to connecting as Pacifica to set the 12" screen settings you early adopters did) and set the value to DS...

On a positive note, I've seen it repeated hear many times that folks couldn't get the used BCM to accept a new VIN using the VIN Write feature in AlfaOBD. You can get the BCM to write the VIN for the installed vehicle for both Original VIN and Current VIN by performing the following steps:

1. Connect to the BCM
2. Select the "Engineering Reconfiguration Reset"
3. Select "Reset ECU"

This will write the Current VIN the BCM is installed in and leave the Original VIN blank (with a bunch of question marks for the value like this ?????????????). Performing the above 3 steps again will write the value for both fields bumping the Current VIN Value to Original VIN and then re-writing the current VIN with the currently installed VIN (I know @Jimmy07 has said this doesn't matter for operation of the vehicle, but my OCD couldn't let it slide).

 

[SitKneelBend]

Ok, I figured out my issue after replacing the BCM from my 2014 with a 2016 and the Occupant Restraint Control Module (ORC Module) illuminating the airbag light on the dash. Even though the error said "vehicle line" the actual issue was the Max Vehicle speed value changed from 255kmh to 510kmh when restoring the backup configuration from my 2014 BCM. The max allowable range is 0-500kmh in the setting throwing an implausible value error message as well. However, when I changed the value with AlfaOBD to 255kmh the BCM actually saved the value as 256kmh for some reason.

I also found before making the change that folks say you only get one shot at changing the max vehicle speed which seems to be true as I tried setting it again to 254kmh to get the BCM to store 255kmh but it wouldn't take (no error but no change). I bet there is a way to get it to take the value again, but I'm not going to be the one to find out unless something else breaks. You will need to shut down the truck, let the power/dash lights go completely off, then start the engine for the airbag light to clear.

I have had several other issues pop-up with this BCM change too that are perplexing. The Ambient Air Temperature (AAT) reading was -40 degrees meaning it wasn't communicating with the BCM. I checked the BCM C4 connection on Pins 22 and 23 to check for damage and all was well, plugged it back in and still nothing. I have two spare AATs in my workshop from old mirrors and swapped it out in the driver mirror which fixed the issue (it was the original AAT from the factory).

The only other issue I'm aware of now is that my headlights are always on now when set to Auto on the dial. I'm sure I'll figure it out but I'm open to suggestions if anyone else has experienced this. I'm betting going line by line through the BCM will illuminate this issue too...

 

[SitKneelBend]

I think I've got the Auto Headlights, thing narrowed down to the readings coming from the Ambient Light Sensor itself. Even when I shine a surefire flashlight at it the voltage goes up (like it's reading in reverse for voltage). So the daylight voltage increased from 2.04V to 4.61V as read from the BCM.

 

[SitKneelBend]

Also I cam across a post from @Jimmy07 that probably would have fixed my Ambient Temperature sensor too as he highlights both settings that need changed in the BCM to inform the truck properly. I'm probably going to set this back and if it breaks grab the sensor I took out of the tow mirrors to see if that fixes it yet again...

VehConfig 5: Ambient Temperature Sensor Location- DCM
CBC I/O: Connector D Pin 22/ Connector D Pin 23: Ambient Temperature Sensor Present- NO

That is the actual setting name in AlfaOBD that needs to be changed, not physical wires. The BCM is being told not to use that input anymore because the driver door module is going to handle it now.

All you need to do is change those two settings. Your original basic mirrors used wires for the ambient temperature sensor that went straight to the BCM, and the BCM received the sensor data. Once you changed to the new mirrors, they contained their own temp sensor wires that plug into the door module with those two connectors. That’s why one setting tells the door module (DCM) to start receiving temp sensor info, and the other tells the BCM to shut off it’s temp sensor input because that wire is now an open circuit.

 

[JulianRam]

Hello, i did the 12.1'' uconnect 5 swap in a 2018 4 gen. with alfaobd i enabled the DCSD (cabin net- DCSD Display screen module) and disabled the ICS ( cabin net- ICS integrated centerstack). i bought this kit of of ebay :https://www.ebay.nl/itm/145913284898 and repinned the ICS connector. and plugged the display in there. 2 buttons on the screen light up when i start the car. but the screen stays black. what should i do?
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[SitKneelBend]

Hello, i did the 12.1'' uconnect 5 swap in a 2018 4 gen. with alfaobd i enabled the DCSD (cabin net- DCSD Display screen module) and disabled the ICS ( cabin net- ICS integrated centerstack). i bought this kit of of ebay :https://www.ebay.nl/itm/145913284898 and repinned the ICS connector. and plugged the display in there. 2 buttons on the screen light up when i start the car. but the screen stays black. what should i do?
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I think I've come across this on 5th gen Ram forums but I haven't plugged mine it yet. I think I'll have time to start testing the screen today and I will let you know what I find/think your issue might be. I'm very interested to see the Uconnect 5 in a 4th gen as the one I'm testing is a 12.1 4c.

 

[SitKneelBend]

It's alive! Quick post for anyone needing an unlock code too (for free). If it is a UAX, the Anti-Theft Code is easily deciphered Get the last 4 of the serial number form the radio module, for example last 4 of 0313. TO decipher:

100 - 03 = 97 (100 minus first two characters of the last 4 digits of the serial number)

99 - 13 = 86 (99 minus last two characters of the last 4 digits of the serial number)

Full unlock code is 9786.

I believe this will work on all UAV/UAX/UAQ/UAS radios. Credit doesn't go to me but another member on this forum whom I had a chat with that I'm failing to remember at the moment.

The only issue I see so far (but I'm sure there will be more is volume control is either on or off (0 is mute and 1-38 is the same mid volume level that I would describe as about 20 on a UAQ/UAS). Not sure if this is related to using the 8.4 HVAC control bezel or not.

I'm pretty tempted to bust out the zip ties and roll around ridin' dirty for a little bit.

 

[SitKneelBend]

Just had to let it settle in more and the volume responds properly, still waiting on SXM to show but volume sorted itself out. The only buttons not working on the 8.4" HVAC bezel are the temperature Up/Down buttons. Definitely gonna ride dirty...

 

[SitKneelBend]

Hello, i did the 12.1'' uconnect 5 swap in a 2018 4 gen. with alfaobd i enabled the DCSD (cabin net- DCSD Display screen module) and disabled the ICS ( cabin net- ICS integrated centerstack). i bought this kit of of ebay :https://www.ebay.nl/itm/145913284898 and repinned the ICS connector. and plugged the display in there. 2 buttons on the screen light up when i start the car. but the screen stays black. what should i do?
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Ok, circling back to your issue. Are you able to connnect directly to the radio module with AlfaOBD? This would let us know if the module is even getting power or not.

 

[G-Ride990]

I want to swap mine even more now. Great job on the trouble shooting!

 

[SitKneelBend]

I want to swap mine even more now. Great job on the trouble shooting!

Thanks, I have to give a big shout out to @Mpgrimm2 as he sent me a big box of goodies to break (bezels and such) and see if I can come up with a cleaner 3D print solution for this setup.

Radio came with a bonus SXM subscription from the last owner too... Winning!

 

[SitKneelBend]

Are you ready for some football!

 

[SitKneelBend]

Hey @skuppy069, does Apple CarPlay work full screen in a 4c UAX? I saw your post here and it looks like it is?

5th Gen 8.4 UAV Radio in a 4th Gen (And Possible Surround View)

I feel like I just found the jackpot. This is precisely what I am looking to do. I do have two questions, has anyone tried this with a Cummins? I would need to retain my exhaust brake feature. Also do you have any clue what it would take to enable the trailer cameras? I have a toy hauler and...

www.ramforum.com

If so, I'm trying to see if I can use AAwireless to run AA as a Carplay connection (it's a beta option as of now).

Edit: on closer inspection that looks like a UConnect 5. Do you know if it does full screen AA natively?

 

[Mpgrimm2]

12" uConnect 5 ... STILL doesn't support full screen AA (Fullscreen Carplay supposedly)

 

[SitKneelBend]

12" uConnect 5 ... STILL doesn't support full screen AA (Fullscreen Carplay supposedly)

Welp, that just ended that search for me. The only appeal of the UConnect 5 (to me) would be full screen AA or a rootable OS on the radio (whichever comes first)...

 

[SitKneelBend]

Update for anyone interested. Everything works with this setup using the 8.4" HVAC controls. The only thing that's graphically off but functional (from the manual controls) is the graphical display onscreen of the temperature settings. As @skuppy069 pointed out, in order for the controls for the UAX to work (or at least look) properly, you need to do the single zone ATC mod. I assume if one does this mod with dual zone ATC from the factory everything will just work. As for now, I'm fine with the temperature indicators on screen only reading "LO" because I rarely adjust my HVAC by temperature but rather fan speed and fan speeds 1-7 display onscreen correctly using the blower knob on the bezel. (I set it all the way hot or all the way cold). The 8.4" Bezel temperature up/down buttons do actually work, but the only indication that you have changed the temperature is the wrong graphic pops up on screen, no big deal as you can still get hot and cold air by mashing the button and it stays where it was set between power cycles like normal. If my OCD gets the best of me, I'll likely just purchase the single zone ATC wiring from @Mpgrimm2 to make the onscreen controls work better.



I was successful at adding Travelink to this unit using AlfaOBD, it's pretty cool (for free). I have to say, the sound quality on the UAX is definitely a step above the UAS/UAQ radios. I was satisfied with the previous radios but there is a definite increase in clarity and playing at higher volumes without distortion. So much so that when it warms up I'm going to retune the Kicker Key amp DSP for the new radio.

Now for the long pole in the tent, learning enough 3D design on TinkerCad to create a new slim 3D printed enclosure for the screen to remove the aluminum radio frame from my current setup and finalize the install. I don't expect this to be done for some time though as I first want to build an enclosure for the Bambu Labs A1 I have to keep it clean in my workshop and expand my options for a possible ABS printing of my final bezel. I think in the final design I am goin to tilt the screen more towards the driver seat for ease of operation and I currently have an idea to incorporate the cooling fans I already have installed that cools the radio module to also cool the large control board on the back of the screen itself (drawing cab air through a plenum across both).

If anyone already has 3D scans of the 8.4" bezel it will GREATLY reduce the fumbling I'll be doing while prototyping this. If anyone has a 3D scanner and can scan some stuff for me and give me access to the files, I'd greatly appreciate it and would gladly give you access to the completed remix files of the 12" bezel. Wish me luck and feel free to comment with suggestions on my proposed mod of a 12" "8.4 radio"...

 

[Mpgrimm2]

Update for anyone interested. Everything works with this setup using the 8.4" HVAC controls. The only thing that's graphically off but functional (from the manual controls) is the graphical display onscreen of the temperature settings. As @skuppy069 pointed out, in order for the controls for the UAX to work (or at least look) properly, you need to do the single zone ATC mod. I assume if one does this mod with dual zone ATC from the factory everything will just work. As for now, I'm fine with the temperature indicators on screen only reading "LO" because I rarely adjust my HVAC by temperature but rather fan speed and fan speeds 1-7 display onscreen correctly using the blower knob on the bezel. (I set it all the way hot or all the way cold). The 8.4" Bezel temperature up/down buttons do actually work, but the only indication that you have changed the temperature is the wrong graphic pops up on screen, no big deal as you can still get hot and cold air by mashing the button and it stays where it was set between power cycles like normal. If my OD gets the best of me, I'll likely just purchase the single zone ATC wiring from @Mpgrimm2 to make the onscreen controls work better.

FYI... I can also make a custom Single Zone ATC control board/bezel... See ATC Post 8 Here.

.

 

[SitKneelBend]

FYI... I can also make a custom Single Zone ATC control board/bezel... See ATC Post 8 Here.

.

Of course you can, and now I can't un-see it and one day my OCD will get the best of me and I'll be calling you with an order! This whole 12" upgrade itch started 4 years ago and it's just now getting scratched (but it itched the whole time)! I actually bought the screen years ago but returned it because it didn't include the radio module in a price that I felt was too was too high...

 

[masnecar]

@SitKneelBend Been following this thread in the shadows until now. I've been toying with the same idea (regarding the hvac conversion) and did a bit of digging. This may be of some use to a lot of people.

These are the parts needed to fabricate the hvac conversion harness.

1 HVAC CONTROL MALE https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/molex/0307001081/3044523
8 PINS https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/te-connectivity-amp-connectors/1393366-1/2700940
1 HVAC CONTROL MODULE MALE https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/te-connectivity-amp-connectors/1318917-1/2273522
24 pins https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/te-connectivity-amp-connectors/1123343-2/2054072
1 HVAC CONTROL MODULE FEMALE https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/te-connectivity-amp-connectors/1376103-1/2273523
24PINS https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/te-connectivity-amp-connectors/1376109-1/2331294

I've yet to dig into the wiring specifics. Got sidetracked on using the cargo cam input as a front cam LOL

EDIT: I'm 100% sure of the fitment of the 8 pin connectors. 99.5% sure for the HVAC module. I pulled the PN off of my connector and cross referenced so I am fairly certain it is correct, but until someone gets it in their hand and actually plugs it in, I can't say 100% - also there is an extra connector on the harness that I believe is for the 4 position blower, which doesn't really apply here)

 

[reyokonova]

Update for anyone interested. Everything works with this setup using the 8.4" HVAC controls. The only thing that's graphically off but functional (from the manual controls) is the graphical display onscreen of the temperature settings. As @skuppy069 pointed out, in order for the controls for the UAX to work (or at least look) properly, you need to do the single zone ATC mod. I assume if one does this mod with dual zone ATC from the factory everything will just work. As for now, I'm fine with the temperature indicators on screen only reading "LO" because I rarely adjust my HVAC by temperature but rather fan speed and fan speeds 1-7 display onscreen correctly using the blower knob on the bezel. (I set it all the way hot or all the way cold). The 8.4" Bezel temperature up/down buttons do actually work, but the only indication that you have changed the temperature is the wrong graphic pops up on screen, no big deal as you can still get hot and cold air by mashing the button and it stays where it was set between power cycles like normal. If my OCD gets the best of me, I'll likely just purchase the single zone ATC wiring from @Mpgrimm2 to make the onscreen controls work better.

View attachment 560710View attachment 560711View attachment 560712

I was successful at adding Travelink to this unit using AlfaOBD, it's pretty cool (for free). I have to say, the sound quality on the UAX is definitely a step above the UAS/UAQ radios. I was satisfied with the previous radios but there is a definite increase in clarity and playing at higher volumes without distortion. So much so that when it warms up I'm going to retune the Kicker Key amp DSP for the new radio.

Now for the long pole in the tent, learning enough 3D design on TinkerCad to create a new slim 3D printed enclosure for the screen to remove the aluminum radio frame from my current setup and finalize the install. I don't expect this to be done for some time though as I first want to build an enclosure for the Bambu Labs A1 I have to keep it clean in my workshop and expand my options for a possible ABS printing of my final bezel. I think in the final design I am goin to tilt the screen more towards the driver seat for ease of operation and I currently have an idea to incorporate the cooling fans I already have installed that cools the radio module to also cool the large control board on the back of the screen itself (drawing cab air through a plenum across both).

If anyone already has 3D scans of the 8.4" bezel it will GREATLY reduce the fumbling I'll be doing while prototyping this. If anyone has a 3D scanner and can scan some stuff for me and give me access to the files, I'd greatly appreciate it and would gladly give you access to the completed remix

Update for anyone interested. Everything works with this setup using the 8.4" HVAC controls. The only thing that's graphically off but functional (from the manual controls) is the graphical display onscreen of the temperature settings. As @skuppy069 pointed out, in order for the controls for the UAX to work (or at least look) properly, you need to do the single zone ATC mod. I assume if one does this mod with dual zone ATC from the factory everything will just work. As for now, I'm fine with the temperature indicators on screen only reading "LO" because I rarely adjust my HVAC by temperature but rather fan speed and fan speeds 1-7 display onscreen correctly using the blower knob on the bezel. (I set it all the way hot or all the way cold). The 8.4" Bezel temperature up/down buttons do actually work, but the only indication that you have changed the temperature is the wrong graphic pops up on screen, no big deal as you can still get hot and cold air by mashing the button and it stays where it was set between power cycles like normal. If my OCD gets the best of me, I'll likely just purchase the single zone ATC wiring from @Mpgrimm2 to make the onscreen controls work better.

View attachment 560710View attachment 560711View attachment 560712

I was successful at adding Travelink to this unit using AlfaOBD, it's pretty cool (for free). I have to say, the sound quality on the UAX is definitely a step above the UAS/UAQ radios. I was satisfied with the previous radios but there is a definite increase in clarity and playing at higher volumes without distortion. So much so that when it warms up I'm going to retune the Kicker Key amp DSP for the new radio.

Now for the long pole in the tent, learning enough 3D design on TinkerCad to create a new slim 3D printed enclosure for the screen to remove the aluminum radio frame from my current setup and finalize the install. I don't expect this to be done for some time though as I first want to build an enclosure for the Bambu Labs A1 I have to keep it clean in my workshop and expand my options for a possible ABS printing of my final bezel. I think in the final design I am goin to tilt the screen more towards the driver seat for ease of operation and I currently have an idea to incorporate the cooling fans I already have installed that cools the radio module to also cool the large control board on the back of the screen itself (drawing cab air through a plenum across both).

If anyone already has 3D scans of the 8.4" bezel it will GREATLY reduce the fumbling I'll be doing while prototyping this. If anyone has a 3D scanner and can scan some stuff for me and give me access to the files, I'd greatly appreciate it and would gladly give you access to the completed remix files of the 12" bezel. Wish me luck and feel free to comment with suggestions on my proposed mod of a 12" "8.4 radio"...

Hey everyone,

I've been following your progress, and it's clear now that adapting the 12.1" screen from a 5th-gen Ram into my truck is actually possible! Here's where I'm coming from:

My Current Setup:

• Truck: 2014 EcoDiesel with single-zone AC, 8.4" Uconnect, Alpine audio, heated steering wheel, front heated seats, front & rear parking sensors, and a backup camera.

What I Have & What I'm Considering:

• Three Anycubic Kobra 3 printers and one Anycubic Photon Mono X resin printer.
• I'm even thinking about getting the Kobra Max to print the bezel in one piece if it fits the hardware budget.
• I'm willing to invest in a 3D scanner if that will help the project.

My Initial Understanding of What's Needed:

• The radio module and the 12.1" screen.
• The Alpha OBD app paired with an Alpha OBD-compatible interface.
• Likely a BCM from a newer truck? what am i looking for here?
• Possibly some wiring adapters or pinout modifications?
• can you list what you had to purchase/mod thus far?

Could someone outline what else is needed to reach your current progress? I'm more than happy to help with prototyping and can provide scans of my truck and parts if necessary.

Thanks for all your work so far—your progress has really inspired me to dive into this project.