Question for Crutchfield customers

[2-6Battalion]

I have a 2014 1500 express CC and I want to replace the factory radio. According to the manual I have the "uconnect 3.0" aka the most basic radio.

I'd like to replace it with an aftermarket unit with a touch screen with BT, iPod/iPhone compatible Ect...
Such as this one-
http://www.crutchfield.com/p_070AV6116B/Axxera-AV6116Bi.html

I've used crutchfield before for previous vehicles, approx 7-10 years ago. They were an excellent company then, provided me with all the necessary harnesses and most importantly the mounting bracket/bezel to fit my vehicle. However those older radios were more square and simple where as my current radio is not. Worried about proper fitment.

Basically just looking for reassurance and personal experience/advice with this company and my radio.

As before when I ordered from them with the purchase of the radio they offer the bracket,bezel and harnesses to make it fit but before jumping in Id like to see what yalls experiences have been. And I'm also open to suggestions if there are other companies out there similar to crutchfields style that you all have used and have gotten the results you're looking for.

As long as it will look factory as far as fit and finish, has the touch screen and few basic features I want im happy..

 

[BlkRamRt]

looks like you have to pay for all the accessories needed to install it.

 

[14hemiexpress]

I've used crutchfield before and so have friends and family and won't hesitate to again. Still a great comapny. If you buy a stereo from them they have packages from basic things you need install the HU. They normally offer 3-4 packages some include steering wheel control adapters, sat radio, nav ect all different prices you just pick the package that fits your needs. If your worried about fitment call crutchfield they will walk you through any fitment issues you are concerned about.

 

[Mpgrimm2]

Just an fyi, but what about an upgrade to the factory 8.4?

If your 2014 truck has the 7 speed fan already then the full conversion is plug and play for you. Just need
- 8.4 radio
- Factory 8.4 single zone bezel (or dual zone ATC will work)
- 7 speed conversion harness
(At www.harness-connection.us or pm CuylerTech on the forum)
- HVAC module for 7 speed fan
- 911/cellular error bypass plug

See post 2 of the conversion thread ...
http://www.ramforum.com/showthread.php?p=1190144

Or here's everything in one shot from the for sale section...
http://www.ramforum.com/showthread.php?t=85558

There are other 8.4AN radios and conversion parts for sale individually by members in the for sale section also.

You can also add the factory steering wheel controls, and mirror with microphones for BT calls.

++++++++
Other upgrade eligible items...

Installing OEM backup cam

DIY: 2013-2014 OEM Steering Wheel Audio Control Install

2014 7" Premium Clusters


Up All Night Sleep All Day via my LG G4 on Tapatalk

 

[coolemoff1]

The aftermarket looks built into the truck
The 8.4 crap is full of bugs,no expand ability without high price lockpick,wiring changes,errors,radio being bricked stay far away from 8.4 mod
I know I ripped all mine out and went
Kenwood didn't lose one thing functionally gained lots more

 

[Mpgrimm2]

The aftermarket looks built into the truck
The 8.4 crap is full of bugs,no expand ability without high price lockpick,wiring changes,errors,radio being bricked stay far away from 8.4 mod
I know I ripped all mine out and went
Kenwood didn't lose one thing functionally gained lots more

Well, I don't completely agree with coolemoff1 here since i prefer factory system/integration for the money and many have done the conversion successfully.

I will agree that everything can be done with aftermarket items including full Canbus/vehicle menu settings via the radio's touchscreen using an iDataLink / Maestro (& Maestro compatible radio). Your are also in better shape if you want the very latest features (ie CarPlay/Android Auto), a full audiophile setup with amps, subs, crossovers, etc.

There are plenty who go both directions. To each, his or her own.

Edit: interesting read about someone going with the Maestro/Kenwood setup then going back to stock 8.4A hu. Can't say it's typical...
http://www.ramforum.com/showthread.php?p=1297124

Up All Night Sleep All Day via my LG G4 on Tapatalk

 

[2-6Battalion]

Thanks for the info guys, as much as I do like the look of the factory upgrade, I couldn't afford to drop $750 (even though Im sure that's a good deal for everything) Im gonna stick with going aftermarket. Saves me a few bucks and I can get the few features I really want/need.

My only worry was the fitment issue. But it seems like whatever Crutchfield is offering should work.

Anyone have any pictures they could post of their 3.0/other radio conversion to aftermarket?

 

[adurm]

The metra nav harness worked fine for my 2015. I did lose the OEM USB but there is a fix for that now. Maestro is another company (they make the USB fix) that makes wiring harness/integration stuff. The double din bezel fits perfect and it will all look as OEM as possible. You will have to cut a metal brace in the dash to get a double din in there, but its easy.

Crutchfield has always given me solid customer service, but at a premium price.

 

[Graygoose]

Crutchfield will usually give you more tech support, installation products, information than most mediocre local dealers.

 

[adrianp89]

+1 for Crutchfield, we even use their dealer tech info for many cars.