How hard is it to install USA Spec I-pod interface?

How hard is it to install on an RTS and what is involved? I will take it to a professional if I have to.

Save yourself some $$$ and do it yourself. Just check out the other blogs on how they installed it.

Make sure you have adequate lighting. I did it after work and it got dark quickly so I had to get some flashlights.

Once you finish, you'll realize it's really quite easy to do. At most, 2 on a scale of 5 for difficulty. The only reason it's not 1 is the size of the dashboard housing.

Look at number 14 for a brief overview.
http://www.ridgelineownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=5655&page=2

GO FOR IT !

ps. Don't forget your radio code so you can re-activate the radio after re-connecting the battery.
pss. I did it by myself. If you have a friend, it will speed up the process since you have four hands to hold the dashboard housing.
psss. (Trick to create more space when removing dashbd housing) On top of the steering column, remove the plastic tab on the left side and using a flat edge screw driver will lower the column further than normal.

Thanks, I think I will give it a try.

How hard is it to install on an RTS and what is involved? I will take it to a professional if I have to.

Here is the easy answer...do it yourself. You'll learn more about your RL and it's a very easy install. Good luck. :cool:

The install is easy. For those that want it, step-by-step directions:

1. Make sure you have some extra lighting handy (flashlight or worklight).

2. Find a warm, dry place to do the install.

3. Set parking brake. (truck should be off)

4. Insert key into slot on top of steering column.

5. Move gear selector down to first gear.

6. Dig flat-head screwdriver out of toolbox.

7. (optional) Place a piece of masking or electrical tape of screwdriver tip

8. Use screwdriver on the notches at the base of the dash panel to loose it. Recommend a twisting motion while pulling on the lower edge of the dash panel.

9. Carefully pull dash panel working around edges, pull panel so it's loose.

10. Move steering wheel to lowest setting.

11. Starting from drivers door, unplug all switches on the dash panel.

12. Move dash panel, set it on the back seat.

13. Slide center console all the way forward.

14. Drape "not an ashtray" console and center console with a towel. This will prevent scratches during Step 16.

15. Remove screws securing Head Unit.

16. Slide Head Unit from dash, set it on the draped consoles from Step 14.

17. Insert square USA Spec plug into Head Unit.

- - - For XM follow steps below. For non-XM, skip to Step 18 - - -

17a. Remove small square plug from rear of headunit.

17b. Plug "Y" harness into Head Unit.

17c. Plug XM into one side of "Y" harness.

17d. Insert USA Spec plug into other side of "Y" harness

18. Run iPod wire for desired location.

19. Connect both wires to USA Spec module.

20. Mount USA Spec module in desired location. Suggest using double sided tape or velcro.

21. Slide Head Unit back into dash and secure.

22. Reconnect plugs for all switches on dash panel.

23. Carefully push dash panel back into place.

24. Start truck, verify function of all dash switches.

25. Connect iPod to cable, jam out to favorite tunes.

While you are waiting for your printer to crank out a copy of this tutorial, a few other thoughts.

Read the directions that came with the USA Spec regarding setup of dip switches. I suggest setup for Direct Mode (DIP switch #2 off or up).

If you think you may later want to use the RCA input, connect and run RCA cables now, preventing you from pulling everything out to setup later (DIP switch #1 off or up).

Before starting the install, think about where you want your iPod to sit when you are driving. Some like the glove box, although it makes it harder to operate the iPod directly. I followed the lead of others and used the storage cubby attached to the Head Unit. Took a few tries to get the hole in the back drilled large enough. This allows me to hide the iPod away when using the HONDA playlists and CD controls. But I can still find songs directly on the iPod if i want to.

I did not find it neccessary to disconnect the main wiring harness from the Head Unit, nor did I disconnect the battery. By leaving power to the Head Unit, I didn't lose my station pre-sets and didn't have to input the security code.

Best of luck with your install, I hope this was useful.

Hmm... I forgot the disclaimer.

My RL is the base model. No XM, No CD Changer, No Steering Wheel Controls. I added the XM directions based on my research prior to deciding on the USA Spec. This was put together based on memory or an install done a few weeks ago.

The lawyer would probably suggest wording about indemnity and a lack of liability. Luckily I'm not a lawyer :cool:

If something's unclear, let me know.

Firefighter provides excellent instructions. I too left the power and did not removing the radio connector. The USA-Spec connector goes in an empty slot on the back of the radio so there is no need to remove the power.

I put my Ipod cable in the small "vanity drawer" just below the radio/CD (I have an RL with the 6-CD changer). This required drilling a hole in the back of the vanity drawer large enough for the round end of the Ipod cable to pass. This way the cord is out of sight and when I hook up the Ipod, I just close the vanity drawer. You don't need to have access to the Ipod if you use the default settings for playlist access.

It's easy and the I-Spec works very well!

Enjoy

I did not find it neccessary to disconnect the main wiring harness from the Head Unit, nor did I disconnect the battery. By leaving power to the Head Unit, I didn't lose my station pre-sets and didn't have to input the security code.

My HU is XM ready but I did let it expired. The USA interface was between the HU and the XM harness so I disconnected the battery to be safe. And I did not lose my presets! That was a surprise.

Hey guys, just want to ensure that using this interface still lets the sub play, correct? Thanks!

yes, sub still plays!

I just want to make sure I understand this USA spec completely.

1. The sub still works for sure?

2. Will the XM as well as stock CD player still work?

3. Does any fucntionality change whatsoever?

4. How exactly does the USA-Spec Ipod controller work? I heard the stock Music-Link one sucks really bad because it doesn't display the song or playlist or artist correctly? How does the USA-Spec handle this?

The USA Spec uses the AUX input on the radio. The factory radio sees the iPod as another CD Changer. It is just like the OEM iPod adapter, in that info on the ipod is not shown on the radio screen. There are two modes you can use the ipod adapter: playlist mode, and track mode. An example of how it works in playlist mode is that if you have 6 playlists on your ipod, it will display disc 2 song 36 if you were listing to the 36th song on your second playlist. Also track up and down on the radio control/steering wheel controls what song in the playlist you will listen to. The FF/Rew butting allows you to skip 10 songs at a time in the playlist. The other mode is direct mode where you can actually use the ipod to select what song you want to listen to. Playlist mode - all buttons and controls on the iPod are disabled. You also have an RCA input on the USA SPec unit as well. I have had mine and am very pleased. You do retain XM, CD, and subwoofer functionality with this unit.

The USA Spec uses the AUX input on the radio. The factory radio sees the iPod as another CD Changer. It is just like the OEM iPod adapter, in that info on the ipod is not shown on the radio screen. There are two modes you can use the ipod adapter: playlist mode, and track mode. An example of how it works in playlist mode is that if you have 6 playlists on your ipod, it will display disc 2 song 36 if you were listing to the 36th song on your second playlist. Also track up and down on the radio control/steering wheel controls what song in the playlist you will listen to. The FF/Rew butting allows you to skip 10 songs at a time in the playlist. The other mode is direct mode where you can actually use the ipod to select what song you want to listen to. Playlist mode - all buttons and controls on the iPod are disabled. You also have an RCA input on the USA SPec unit as well. I have had mine and am very pleased. You do retain XM, CD, and subwoofer functionality with this unit.

So XM radio still works without installing an aftermarket Y-Cable?

Also, if it doesn't display anything on the stock radio, how is it better than the Honda Music Link for $85 on eBay?

Y cable is for PA11-HON2 models and is only needed to retain XM and in dash cd changer. PA11-HON2 with Y cable is the same as PA11-HON2Y.

I havent used Honda OEM product but from what I understand, it has problems and doesn't work right. Several ROC members have ditched Honda OEM and went with USA Spec.

Can't speak to the Honda Music Link on a Ridgeline, but my daughter has one on her Accord & other than the lack of display on the screen, along with the glove box installation (which the dealer said was mandatory), she's had no complaints. She did have a cable work loose, but it was quickly fixed by the dealership.

How do you change from play list mode to direct mode? Can you change this after USA Spec unit is installed?

How do you change from play list mode to direct mode? Can you change this after USA Spec unit is installed?

You manually have to change the dip switch setting on the USA Spec unit. You can do this after it is installed as long as you have access to the unit itself.

Rather than follow the multiple questions and individual answers, look at the users guide and find the answers yourself. It will tell you what it can and can't do. ;)

http://www.discountcarstereo.com/pdf/pa11-hon2y.pdf

Unless you are worried about the controls on your iPod being bumped while driving, I suggest setting the dip switch for direct mode. This will allow you to use the playlists and cd changer controls while driving. It will also allow you to directly find songs on the iPod if needed.

This will allow you to use the playlists and cd changer controls while driving. It will also allow you to directly find songs on the iPod if needed.

I don't believe that statement is correct. With the USA Spec set for playlist mode, you can use the steering controls for CD changer-like functionality. It will allow you to find songs in a rudimentary fashion (not directly) and it is laborious and time-consuming. The ipod display and click wheel are not active.

epiphany.... you missed the end of my first sentence.

I reccommend DIRECT Mode. This is the setup I utilize on my truck. As a disclaimer, I will state that I have the base model ridgeline (no in-dash changer, no steering wheel controls, no XM).

By using DIRECT mode, I have full functionality of the click wheel and display of the iPod. This allows me to see what is playing on my iPod screen, and use the iPod to navigate songs. I also have the ability to skip songs with the Head Unit controls. With the HONDA playlists on the iPod, I can switch between playlists using the DISC1, DISC2, (etc.) buttons. I can also use playlists beyond the 5 HONDA playlists by choosing them manually on the iPod.

Based on my personal experience and the research I've done, DIRECT mode is the most versatile.

firefighter,

You're right, I missed it at the beginning. That's what these boards are for, an open discussion about a common topic, the Ridgeline. Glad to be part of the family..:o

The directions are sort of confusing. What are the DIP switches to be set at for Direct Mode? 1ON, 2OFF?

The directions are sort of confusing. What are the DIP switches to be set at for Direct Mode? 1ON, 2OFF?


The unit you are getting is set to playlist mode and AUX in for Disc 6.

To re-iterate my previous question, What are the DIP switches to be set at for Direct Mode? 1ON, 2OFF?

To re-iterate my previous question, What are the DIP switches to be set at for Direct Mode? 1ON, 2OFF?
DIP switch is OFF for Direct Mode. FYI, factory preset for the DIP switch is ON.

Zinger,

I got your PM and replied but I found this for you. ON is when dip switch #2 is at the down position, so the up position is for OFF / Direct Mode.

What about DIP switch number 1?

I am very sorry but all I need to know is the DIP Switch Settings (number 1 and number 2) for direct playback. Am I making this too hard or something?

What about DIP switch number 1?

I am very sorry but all I need to know is the DIP Switch Settings (number 1 and number 2) for direct playback. Am I making this too hard or something?
Yes :rolleyes: See paragraph 2-3 (DIP 1 is only for the AUX interface)

SO...

DIP1 - ON
DIP2 - OFF

For direct mode and no AUX RCA use.

SO...

DIP1 - ON
DIP2 - OFF

For direct mode and no AUX RCA use.
"Give that man a seegar"

"Give that man a seegar"
So if I want to use the unit for both AUX and IPOD it would be set OFF, OFF?

or am I just out of luck?

So if I want to use the unit for both AUX and IPOD it would be set OFF, OFF?

or am I just out of luck?

Only if you wanted to use the iPod in DIRECT MODE, not PLAYLIST MODE.

You also get a seegar! ;)

USA Spec's use of the terms DIRECT and PLAYLIST modes is a bit confusing.

If set for PLAYLIST mode, you will be unable to control the iPod using the click wheel. You will need to setup your iPod with the HONDA playlists that are described in the owners manual. These playlists are recognized by the Factory Radio as CD's in the CD Changer.

If set for DIRECT mode, you will maintain all functions of the iPod while connected. You will still have the option of using the HONDA playlists.

In regards to the AUX function. If you think you might later want to add any other audio source to work with your RL's stereo, take the extra seconds and set up the USA Spec at time of install, before you reassemble the dash. This will keep you from having to pull everything apart later. I opted to setup the unit to use the AUX input, and ran a set of RCA cables into the glovebox. Not sure what I'll use them for, or if I ever will, but they are there if I need them.

Examples of possible uses for that AUX audio input:

1. Aftermarket XM Radio (probably cheaper than doing the HONDA XM unless you already have it)
2. SIRIUS Radio
3. Talking GPS
4. Handsfree Cell Phone Kit
5. Portable DVD Player
6. PSP
7. Anything that has an audio output that can be adapted to use RCA.

Hell, I'm sure someone, somewhere, has a functioning 8-Track and a stack of cartridges that they just have to listen to while in the truck.

TO RECAP - SET BOTH DIP SWITCHES TO OFF, RUN AN RCA CABLE INTO THE GLOVEBOX FOR LATER, AND ENJOY.

What is the difference between USA Spec I-pod and the other kind ( I assume non USA Spec) exactly?

USA Spec is the name of a company making ipod adapters. It has nothing to do with country specific programming of ipods.

http://www.usaspec.com/

USA Spec is the name of a company making ipod adapters. It has nothing to do with country specific programming of ipods.

http://www.usaspec.com/
Thank you for the information.

Just installed this in my RTL with the XM. It took longer for me to take the dash and the 10 connectors off than hooking up the adapter.

Next is my wife's Accord. That is going to be a job... :)

Seminole Rob:

Let me know how it goes installing it on the Accord. I've got the same project coming up also after I get it in my Ridgeline. Have been looking all over the net but haven't found as detailed directions for installing for a 2006 Accord. The ROC site has ALL the best info I've found....may have to get her to trade in the Accord for another Ridge !!!

Leon

Seminole Rob:

Let me know how it goes installing it on the Accord. I've got the same project coming up also after I get it in my Ridgeline. Have been looking all over the net but haven't found as detailed directions for installing for a 2006 Accord. The ROC site has ALL the best info I've found....may have to get her to trade in the Accord for another Ridge !!!

Leon

Seminole Rob:

Let me know how it goes installing it on the Accord. I've got the same project coming up also after I get it in my Ridgeline. Have been looking all over the net but haven't found as detailed directions for installing for a 2006 Accord. The ROC site has ALL the best info I've found....may have to get her to trade in the Accord for another Ridge !!!

Leon

Nah, she likes her car. I am getting her an XM receiver also and will probably do both over the weekend.

Anyone have any problems with rattles after putting the whole thing back together?

My wife is concerned that this will happen if I install the interface.

Anyone have any problems with rattles after putting the whole thing back together? My wife is concerned that this will happen if I install the interface.
I used industrial double stick tape to secure the USA SPEC to the top of the cubby compartment. No rattles.

Anyone have any problems with rattles after putting the whole thing back together?

My wife is concerned that this will happen if I install the interface.



Mine was screwed on to the back wall of glovebox at the top. iPod just layed in glovebox.

wow..149.99 via crutchfield...

anyone try the hybrid setting?

anyone install on the 2008 model yr?

I just picked up my 08 RTX...I'd like to install something like this soon...doesn't look too bad.:)

I put the interface inside the removable panel next to the front passenger foot well. No rattles and easy to get at.

wow..149.99 via crutchfield...

anyone try the hybrid setting?

anyone install on the 2008 model yr?
Be sure to google for the crutchfield coupon for $20 off. I installed my unit last Nov 06 and just had USA Spec upgrade the software to have the hybrid function.

Works greats, the best from both worlds. You have the option of controlling the ipod device or thru the steering wheel/OEM radio controls. :D