D3 is Da-Bomb!
I wanted to wait a week or so before posting, just to be sure everything works as adverrtised - and IT DOES!
To start with, John is a excellent vendor and is focused on customer service. During my initial order of my D3, I learned that the Bluetooth unit I received would not work with the head unit. John immediately shipped out the proper unit before I even returned the original, then followed up to be sure I got it. Thanks for your commitment!
At John's recommendatiion, I contacted 'magindat' for the install. After just a few minutes on the phone, I got a good sense that he was knowledgeable about installs - specifically in regards to the Marauder. To be clear, this wasn't a pay n' play install. I was told that I would be doing a lot of work myself (and I did) but that I would have the opportunity to gain unique insight into how the Marauder was assembled.
The very first challenge we faced was the install of the MTX Thunderlink subwoofer. Since it did not line up exactly to the factory holes for the original sub, I was asked how I felt about drilling some holes. I felt that if I did not want the holes drilled, we would have found another way to get it done, but I was OK with it. After some imaginative and creative (hmm... magindat) design, a "hanger system" was manufactured for this sub using a variety of spare parts in the garage - including rubber bushings from a '68 Charger! When that was complete, the rest was downhill!
We continued throughout the day and finished up about 6 pm (about 8 hours start to finish, including lunch). I know some folks can do it faster, but this was not about speed. I drove two hours to learn and be a part of the process - not just stroke a check.
Once installed, we went through the checklist, turning every knob, selecting every setting, tweaking and tuning in every step. I was amazed at the sound quality and the fact that all the stuff I took off, went back in place without any annoying vibrations - even when cranked up!
I am totally stoked about this stereo and am very thankful for making a new friend and getting some hands-on training on my own car! If anyone is even half-way motivated to do some of their own work - I reccommend learnig from Rich. I'm sure I gave him a few laughs with my novice approach, but he was kind and calm with instruction. I hope I was a good student! I know I learned a lot! Thanks, Rich.
As far as the stereo goes - it is night and day difference compared to the cub scout-built crystal radio set that poorly disguised itself as an audio system. Go for the upgrade! You won't be disappointed!
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2003 Black 300A - Build Date: 6/7/2002, #856 of 7838
Kooks Custom Headers, K&N RAI, Dennis Reinhart Stage 1 (4.10's, 180 stat, Denso's, SCT tuner & program, Addco rear sway bar), Dennis Reinhart Transmission upgrade including Art Carr deep pan, Steedo underdrive pulleys, SilverStar upgrade, SS Inserts, Dyno Pro aluminum pedals.
Didn't say I felt bad about it, though.
Originally Posted by GreekGod
