A client from North Chesterfield recently contacted Extreme Audio about upgrading the sound system in his 2018 Ford Raptor with a new radio and a subwoofer. After talking to the client about how he used the truck the features he wanted to add, we put together an upgrade package that would look great in the dash. He loved the plan and gave us the go-ahead to schedule an appointment to complete the installation.
Ford Raptor Radio Upgrade
The new radio features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
We started by removing the factory radio from the truck to make way for an Alpine iLX-207 multimedia receiver. This 2-DIN radio features a 7-inch touchscreen with HD Radio, Bluetooth hands-free and audio streaming and a plethora of audio system tuning features. We connected the radio to an iDatalink Maestro RR integration module so that it can communicate with the CAN data network in the vehicle.
We used a Maestro FTR1 dash kit to mount the Alpine in the dash and provide convenient access to the USB port. The RR interface allows the radio to show data like tire pressure and parking sensor information and operational information like engine speed, vehicle speed and fuel level. We integrated the factory-installed backup camera into the radio to make parking and maneuvering this big truck easier.
Front Camera Upgrade
About a month after completing the radio installation, the client called and asked if we could upgrade the truck further with a forward-facing camera to help make the vehicle even safer. We added an Alpine KCX-C250MC camera switching module to the radio to feed a signal from the Alpine HCE-2600FD multi-view camera we added to the front grille. This camera provides three different views — Panorama, Corner and Ground — to help make it easier to see obstacles. With a 180-degree horizontal viewing angle, the image is truly impressive.
JBL Subwoofer Adds An Extra Kick
The thin JBL subwoofer fit easily behind the seat.
The client also asked about adding a compact subwoofer to the vehicle for a little extra bass. We showed him the JBL BassPro SL compact subwoofer system as an option. He liked that the sub would fit against the back wall of the truck without any modifications to the vehicle. The BassPro SL features a proprietary 8-inch, shallow-mount subwoofer in a compact enclosure that is less than 3 inches thick.
Richmond’s Car Audio Upgrade Experts
With the camera installed and the crossovers in the radio reconfigured to work with the new sub, it was time for the client to pick up his vehicle. He was very happy with the upgrades. If you are interested in upgrading the technology of your Ford Raptor or F-150, drop by Extreme Audio in Midlothian or Mechanicsville. You can also reach us by phone or e-mail using our online contact page.
My raptor radio control the nav, HVAC and fan/temp. Will this Alpine interface do all these things?
Bruce, Thanks for the message. The Maestro kit, combined with a Maestro capable head unit will retain the features you mentioned