How to make an adapter frame for a 2 DIN car radio with your own hands

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Every car enthusiast wants to do everything to make his car look beautiful from the outside and inside. Particular attention is always paid to the radio, especially if it has non-standard dimensions. In this case, it will not be possible to install it properly or the interior will seriously deteriorate. In this article, we decided to tell you how to make an adapter frame for a radio with your own hands, and we will show you step-by-step instructions.

Frame for 2 din radio: characteristics and installation

Many motorists know that the radio in a car becomes obsolete the fastest. Technology is developing rapidly, and in two decades there has been a tremendous leap from radios to multifunctional devices capable of playing video and connecting to the Internet. Therefore, those car owners who keep up with the times often face the question of replacing an outdated device with a new one.

Changing the frame

Connection nuances

I think no one will have any problems or difficulties in removing the stock radio. There is an instruction manual and a number of videos online that can help you do the work step by step.

There is no point in describing the removal and installation procedure, since each machine has its own dismantling nuances. But most often 2 din are installed:

Why do you need a transition frame?

Decorative elements are used to integrate the front part of the radio into the central part of the car panel. Adapter frames for 1 Din car radios are included in the equipment package; products allow you to close the gap between the plastic cover and the metal mounting clip. When installing 2 DIN equipment, it may be necessary to install an upgraded trim on the central part of the instrument panel or a special insert in the trim.

For example, Ford Focus cars use an original Sony radio with rounded edges of the front panel. When installing equipment from alternative suppliers, you will need a frame for the radio that will allow the rectangular front to fit into the oval landing window. The element prevents the player from moving during operation, increasing the reliability of the multimedia center.

Ready solutions

The finished frame for the car radio is produced by the car manufacturer. The product is intended for conveyor installation of the element on cars initially equipped with a full-size radio. An example is the front frame of the Lada Granta Lux car, which allows you to fit a 2-din radio with a rectangular screen. Also, ready-made transition elements are manufactured by small companies. The parts are intended for the integration of head units (from the list of compatible products) into cars.

Making your own frame

Before you start making the frame, you will need the following materials:

cold welding - its volume depends on the dimensions of the frame;
several pieces of sandpaper - both coarse and fine grain;
masking tape;
putty with primer;
solvent or alcohol, as well as paint (the author of the video is the DIY Auto Maintenance channel).

So, the manufacturing procedure is as follows:

First of all, you should use masking tape to cover the places where the cold welding will be applied, in particular, in this case we are talking about the dashboard, as well as the front part of the radio. Tape them so that they do not stick to each other. Next, you will need to stretch regular cling film over the pasted tape, and its edges should be secured with tape. Also, you will need to fix a thread in the middle of the audio system itself - it will allow you to dismantle the frame after the welding has dried.
To avoid difficulties with mounting and dismantling the frame, plastic plates should be installed between the audio system and the installation site. Their installation must be done in such a way that during the application of cold welding these plates remain in the same position and are removed along with the frame. In addition, you will need copper wire, which will be used to reinforce the workpiece. To make the frame as a whole more durable, the wire should be run around the entire perimeter.
When these steps are completed, it is advisable to check everything again, after which you can begin the procedure for making the frame, or rather, preparing it. To make the blank, you will need to ensure a cooler temperature in the cabin so that the material does not harden quickly .
When the applied material is hard enough, you will need to carefully remove the workpiece from the installation site. Do everything carefully, without unnecessary effort, otherwise you may damage the workpiece.
After removing the workpiece, it will need to be sanded to get rid of all excess and accurately fit the outer contours of the frame. Coarse sandpaper is used for grinding; if you accidentally remove excess, you can try to build up a piece using cold welding. For more precise alignment and adjustment of the workpiece, you can use a regular stationery knife. We recommend trying on the workpiece for the seat as often as possible, this will allow you to achieve a more optimal result.
When the fitting procedure is completed, the workpiece will need to be puttied; to perform this task you will need a special putty for plastic bumpers. The surface of the workpiece should be thoroughly cleaned with fine-grained sandpaper and then degreased. When the surface is degreased, putty is applied in one or two layers, and when it dries, it will need to be sanded again.
So, when the surface of the workpiece is puttied and cleaned, you can proceed to the final stage. Now the part will need to be degreased and treated with a primer. Moreover, it is better to apply the primer in several layers - 2 or even 3 - this will provide a more even surface texture. Once the primer is completely dry, all you have to do is paint it. It is advisable to choose the paint to match the color of the center console - it can usually be glossy or matte, choose the more suitable option for your car. To make the color more saturated, it is also advisable to apply the paint in several layers, and before each subsequent application you need to make sure that the paint is dry.
The finished adapter is installed in the center console. It is advisable that there are no gaps between it and the dashboard, otherwise the driver may experience noise or squeaking.

What if the new frame doesn't fit into the existing dashboard?

If you are faced with the problem that the new car radio frame does not fit your center console, you have several options to solve the problem:

purchase a new audio system;
buy a new frame.

Car radio with adapter frame

Buying a new radio

An easier way to implement it is to exchange the purchased car radio in a store or buy a new device if your budget allows. Of course, this option is not suitable for everyone. When purchasing an audio system, it is best to be guided by the dimensions of your existing radio or the technological connector for its installation. Therefore, before going to the store, you should use a tape measure to measure not only the width and height, but also the depth of immersion in the panel. With the dimensions in hand, you can immediately narrow down the range of audio systems that will suit you when purchasing.

But it must be borne in mind that this method does not always give the desired result. Even if the system fits into the seat, you need to make sure that the radio tape recorder can dock normally. One way or another, the frame of the purchased radio should in any case fit normally with the installation site.

Purchasing a new frame

Removable adapter frames for radio tape recorders have recently become a more popular option, since they allow you to securely and efficiently fix the device at the installation site.

Such a frame is fixed on the center console of the car; today consumers are offered several options for such frames:

namely the frame for the audio system;
frame-pocket (video author - Igor Korchagin).

The fundamental difference between these devices is that in the first case you purchase the frame. This option is considered more affordable in terms of price, but its installation procedure will be more complicated. As for the second option, in this case you are buying a pocket made in the form of a plastic box with holes on both sides. That is, the front part of the audio system is mounted on one side, and connectors and plugs with wires are connected on the other.

A significant disadvantage of this option is its cost, especially when compared with the first method. However, despite this price, the second option is more acceptable and is much more often used by our compatriots due to many advantages.

How to make a frame

Factory adapter frames for car radios do not cover the entire range of products. To manufacture the element, products of a similar purpose are used, borrowed from other machines. There are structures made of wood or organic glass, which are then puttied and painted to match the color of the car interior.

1 DIN

Making a frame for a 1 DIN radio is used to mount an additional player, while keeping the standard audio device in the car. Before making a frame, you need to decide on the installation location of the future structure. The installation point must ensure that the radio display is visible and the controls are accessible from the driver's seat.

To hold the head unit, it is necessary to make a plastic or iron frame, which is attached to the dashboard or a metal frame located inside. The mounting shaft of the radio is attached to the power part of the structure with screws. After this, you need to cover the plastic of the dashboard with masking tape, since at the next stage the frame body for the 1 DIN radio is formed from sculptural plasticine.

It is recommended to install an old player or a prototype of a suitable size into the socket.

Before application, it is recommended to warm up the plasticine on a warm radiator, then the material is applied layer by layer to the installation site of the equipment. Each layer is pressed tightly against the previous one, which avoids air voids. After forming the basic configuration of the body, it is necessary to cool the material for 2-3 hours, and then a finishing layer of plasticine is applied, which forms the appearance of the structure. The final surface treatment is carried out with fingers dipped in solvent.

After this, you need to cover the instrument panel and seats with covers; the resulting body is filled with polyester resin. The resulting matrix is used to manufacture a finished transition frame, which is then polished and adjusted to the installation site. To manufacture such a product, experience with polyester resins is required, because... If you lack knowledge, you can irreversibly damage the car's interior trim elements. Additionally, the acoustic wiring needs to be improved to ensure the functionality of 2 players.

Homemade panel for car radio on your own

Homemade panel for car radio

A homemade panel for a car radio is made with your own hands. This car radio panel or frame as it is called will help you install any car radio model, regardless of whether it fits or not.

Several variants

Removable panels for car radios

Today, stores offer a large number of different frames for car radios, but this state of affairs does not help. The fact is that the factory panel does not always fit tightly and well, and this, in turn, gives rise to other problems. You have to do the following:

Or buy a new radio.
Buy a separate transition frame.
Make your own homemade panel.

Each of the above solutions has both disadvantages and advantages.

New radio

When a user sometimes purchases an expensive speaker system, but the head unit does not fit into the dashboard, or does fit but is loose, he has to return the model he likes or replace it.

Note. Considering the high cost of equipment, this approach is not entirely justified.

When making a purchase in a store, you should ask in advance about the sizes. A simple ruler or tape measure will help you avoid mistakes and immediately decide on the choice of a specific model.

Note. Strange as it may sound, such a solution is not always able to solve the problem. The fact is that if the frame stands up, that's half the battle. The car radio will need to fit well with the installation site, and this is not always possible to achieve.

Separate transition frame

Will provide high-quality and reliable installation. The transition frame is screwed to the car panel, and then the car radio is installed. Today, the most popular types of frames are: a separate frame for a car radio and a separate frame-pocket for a car radio.
There is not much difference between them. In the first case, you just buy a frame; in the second, you also buy a pocket.

Removable panels for car radios diagram

Note. The frame pocket is a special plastic box, open on both sides. On one side, the front panel of the device is inserted here, and on the other, external wires are supplied. Only the price of a frame with a pocket is higher than the cost of a simple adapter frame.

With your own hands

The third option is considered the most correct, from any point of view: be it financial or practical.
Such a panel will make it possible to connect a new car radio of any size (1 or 2 din) and type with each other to the car panel.

Panels for car radios

Among other things, such a homemade frame will not require any financial investment, because everything can be made from scrap materials.

Manufacturing process

Making a panel for a car radio

So, we decided to make the panel ourselves. In this case, we definitely won’t go wrong. So:

First, a mixture is made for filling work. The putty must be thoroughly kneaded and allowed to sit for the required time (usually 20 minutes).
We protect the front panel with something, for example, masking tape or just a plastic bag.
We wrap the inside with cardboard in order to fix the rectangle, which we remove.
We apply the front panel to obtain the required print.

Note. In some cases, the ideal option for a frame donor is an old DVD box. It fits both in width (189 mm) and height – (60) mm.

After we apply the putty, wait until it is completely dry and becomes very durable.
We take a rectangle of cardboard and place it strictly in the center, thus obtaining a kind of blank for filling. The rectangle itself must fit tightly, otherwise if gaps remain, problems cannot be avoided in the future.
We buy epoxy resin at the nearest hardware store.

Purpose

Frames for 2 din car radios

It all started with the introduction of two standards regarding head units for greater convenience. Then it went on and on. Manufacturers of televisions, bot computers and navigators have adopted this technology. As you know, there are two standard sizes today: 1 din and 2 din. The first size implies the following indicators: 178x155x50 mm. As for the second size, its indicators are equal: 178x155x100 mm.

Note. But the depth of the seat is not specified in the standards, but is approximately 160 mm.

So, after two new standards were officially implemented, audio device manufacturers were able to sell their devices to a wider market. Their products were adapted to any car, because at the same time it was possible to provide transition frames.

Adapter frame for 2 din car radio

Below are the functions that transition frames perform:

They securely and firmly fix audio equipment, which a priori creates obstacles for thieves;
They simultaneously perform a decorative function, decorating the interior of the car and making the dashboard (see Soundproofing the dashboard of a car is always necessary) more attractive in appearance;
They allow you to correctly install almost any model of car radio, even in a non-standard place. In this case, no cracks or gaps will remain;
Due to reliable fixation, cleaner sound of the audio system as a whole is ensured.

Of course, if you compare the transition frame with a regular liner, the first one looks much more aesthetically pleasing. It firmly fixes the radio, does not allow sound to disappear and does not allow distortion to appear. When choosing a transition frame, it is recommended to pay attention to the following points:

The frame must be made of high-quality plastic;
The frame must meet the standards, otherwise it will be of little use (gaps will remain);
It should firmly fix the head unit and fit harmoniously into the interior of the cabin so as not to attract unnecessary attention;
Installation of the frame should be quick and effortless, but the fixation must be reliable.

Note. Of course, another important criterion when choosing today is the price of the transition frame. A huge number of such products are produced from different manufacturers and their prices may vary.

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DIY frame for 2DIN radio - photo report

#1 Unread message Ajbolit » Tue Oct 07, 2008 8:54 pm

Here is my version of making a frame for a radio tape recorder yourself. Maybe someone will find my experience useful

So, we take apart the standard frame, cut off what is unnecessary so that the new mafon can fit freely. We install the new mafon the way we want it to stand (tilt, forward) [link to image] take the frame from the new radio and sand it [link to image]

we take tights from our or someone else’s girl and pull them onto the frame, fixing them in the right places with super glue [link to image]

coat the front part with epoxy so that the tights stick to the frame [link to image]

We place cellophane on a flat surface, place the frame on it with the coated side down and press it with something, leave it for several hours (about 12) [link to image] take the frame with the tights glued and fix it on the radio tape recorder pre-installed in the desired position. We stretch the tights and fix them to the frame with the same super glue, so that the contact area between the tights and the frame is maximum (to hold better) [link to image]

carefully coat with epoxy, but carefully so as not to drip it somewhere in the cabin [link to image]

After the epoxy has dried, remove the frame and cut off the excess [link to image] and then use fiberglass putty and rough sandpaper to give it the desired shape. [link to image] and then we sand everything with fine sandpaper, putty it with regular putty for final processing in order to remove all the unevenness, sand it again and paint it. And in the end we get something like this [link to image] To everyone who decides to repeat this - Good luck!

Top manufacturers

Frames for radio tape recorders are made by several manufacturers. Factory products are distinguished by correct geometric dimensions, allowing the part to be installed on a car without additional adjustment. The elements are made of plastic, having a color close to the color of the original interior decoration elements. Factories make elements for cars produced since the early 90s of the last century, which simplifies the procedure for selecting a part for a car.

The company produces automotive electronics and additional elements for installing acoustic components in cars. The production program includes products for Asian and European cars, as well as for Russian VAZ cars. Additional pockets with a retractable tray or cup holders are available; products are mounted instead of standard shelves for small items.

Mounting accessories from Aura allow you to install 1 or 2 Din format radios. Decorative frames are available for the central part of the instrument panel (around the player and the central air ducts of the air conditioning system). Combination products are available for mounting multimedia equipment and a pocket for small items.

AVS elements are designed for cars made in Japan and Europe. The parts are available in several color options, which allows you to choose a transition element to match the color of the car interior. There are parts for 2 Din head units and 1 Din radios with additional trays for storing CDs or small items.

Carav

The manufacturer produces a wide range of parts intended for cars of European, American and Asian manufacturers. The production program includes frames for equipment of 1 or 2 Din standards; there are modifications with a pocket for storing small items.

In addition to rectangular products, frames of complex configurations are produced.

For example, part 11-545, intended for the Ford Ka, allows the installation of a 1 Din radio and has an additional round window for the switch.

Incar

The Incar brand supplies transitional elements, side inserts and additional pockets for passenger cars from European and Asian factories. The products are made of plastic according to samples of the original cladding, which simplifies the installation procedure. For a number of cars, special frames with side plates for mounting are produced (for example, frame 95-7337A for Kia Soul).

Intro

The company produces decorative frames, as well as special rings for installing loudspeakers in standard places. The production program contains plugs that allow you to partially close the installation shaft for multimedia equipment. The parts are intended for cars assembled in Europe, the USA, South Korea and Japan.

Metra

Metra products are designed for Asian-made machines; There are a series of parts for cars of American concerns. The company offers frames with additional pockets. With the help of such elements, the owner can install a 1 Din radio instead of standard 2 Din equipment.

Aprio

The company produces parts for Japanese-made cars. There are only a few types of parts in the production program. Products are rarely found on the Russian market; Due to the limited assortment, it is not among the popular ones.

Fastening Options at a Glance

On sale you can find several options for devices for 1 din and 2 din, including modular modifications that are complete solutions. The most modern, of course, is a robotic elevator, which includes moving elements. This option should not be considered publicly available. In most cases, well-proven methods are used.

Installation to the dashboard

In some cars, in order to ensure the reliability of the installation of the audio system and the absence of risks of failure as a result of vibration, the installation is carried out to the dashboard, that is, to the power fittings of the car. The entire dashboard is supported on a pipe, to which it is fixed using specialized corners. This installation option is practiced in a number of premium cars, for example, Toyota, Mazda and others. A well-thought-out power structure, in turn, ensures a quiet interior.

The version of the “power” mounting of the media system complements the standard shaft, but installers often remove these very “power” corners and install the radio only on the “light” fittings of the shaft. This option cannot be considered reliable and is designed for extreme driving and minor road accidents, which could result in damage to the audio system.

Where can I find the necessary spare parts? In the catalogs of spare parts for your car, for example, the corner numbers for Toyota Carina are as follows - 86211-20330 and 86212-20320. It looks roughly like in the photo. A rigid mount for a 2 din radio is implemented in a similar way.

Installation using a shaft

Installation of a 1 and 2 din radio using a shaft without additional fixation is practiced by AvtoVAZ. Basically, it is customary to attach the device to the center console using a shaft. In turn, the media system is secured with ordinary plastic latches. This is the so-called screwless fittings, also used in Lacetti. Despite all the convenience of installation, it turns out that, in fact, the device hangs and cannot withstand even a small shock load. At the same time, the device weighs about 1 kg.

The result of such an installation is clear without additional explanation; in addition, such an installation can also damage (or simply break) the front console. Most motorists do not think about why additional holes are made in the sides of the car radio housing.

They are made specifically for high-quality installation of din 1 and 2 to the dashboard, using the corners described in the first option. These are factory mounts that complement the standard shaft or frame. They can be purchased at automotive stores. Some suppliers sell them as a radio mounting bracket. But this is a wrong interpretation; the bracket and frame are similar installation methods, but different from those described.

“Easy” installation options may result in the device simply cracking in several places. And this will happen precisely because of the characteristics of ill-conceived fastening fittings.

The lack of installation without rigid fixation first manifests itself in the form of extraneous noise. Then the console also bursts. If you want to avoid this, attach the car radio initially correctly, as specified by the manufacturer.

Firmware features of Chinese radios

The original functions of the purchased equipment are not always ideal. Chinese radios are no exception. The so-called flashing will help improve them. As with any modern technology, updates from the manufacturer are available for them. To use other, more fashionable functions, you most often do not need to buy a new device.

Firmware for Chinese radio

Firmware

Firmware for Chinese car radio

One of the types of repair of Chinese car radios is called firmware. Why is it needed? Let's try to figure it out:

Note. Firmware is a software update. There may be several reasons why such an update is needed. They are presented below.

The firmware is updated to make the radio compatible with new software for additional devices, such as a navigator, rear view camera, telephone, etc.
It is also carried out to generally improve the performance of the device.
Firmware can be updated to expand configuration capabilities, for example, when you need to add new features.
Firmware can be carried out in cases where the drive software is not fully developed or there are errors.
It is also carried out to remove the binding to any region.
To change the drive ID string.
For removing riplock, etc.

The firmware itself is also software. Having received it, a device such as a car radio is equipped with a modern operating system.

Note. Firmware can also be called a file containing the main version of the program for upgrading the device, the boot process itself, etc.

To make the firmware, special programs are used, obtained from the Internet or from other sources.

Backup firmware

Approximately as written below, the backup update process for a Chinese radio is carried out:

To begin with, the firmware program is launched, for example, Binflash.
Make sure that the same drive is selected for which you intend to make a backup.
We enable the DUMP function.
We see a backup dialog box appear.
Click on the “Save” option and wait for the backup process to complete.

Riplock firmware

Riplock, in essence, is a limitation of the speed at which the radio tape recorder reads certain types of media. Riplock was originally conceived as a method of combating video piracy. This method will not allow you to quickly copy videos, but riplock will ideally reduce the noise level when playing discs with films or clips recorded on them.

Note. Most Chinese radios do not have riplock. It was removed or was not standing at all. Thanks to this, the rip speed has increased significantly, but as a rule, only for stamped media. If the riplock is in place, removing it may result in noisier DVD playback.

You can flash a Chinese car radio directly from DOS. To do this you need to do the following:

Insert the desired disc into the drive.
Open formatting.
Create a bootable MS-DOS disk.
Click to start the process.

More detailed information on how to flash the firmware can be found in the instructions of one source or another.