Alternative Head Unit Locations

I just bought an '08 TRD Prerunner DC and I want to put a Computer in the current head unit location. I found all I need for the computer setup, but the way I want it all put together is such that I will still need a separate head unit. I have looked through the forum for alternate head unit locations and haven't found many that are easily accessible. One spot I have in mind is right next to the shifter in the current rectangle shaped change tray facing up (obviously by cutting out the bottom and performing a little bit of cosmetic surgery). Does anyone know if a standard size head unit will even fit there? Have any other suggestions?

Thanks

 

I've taken that whole part of the console apart and it definately won't fit. Can't you use the computer to play music or is this a different kind.

 

I can use the computer to play music, I just wanted the option to just listen to the radio without having to wait for boot up. There's no point in booting up a PC when your just running to the store. I've also seen mp3car.com, but I think I can get a decent setup that I can put together myself for under $600. That's including a very nice head unit.
Now, since PJoe says there's no room by the shifter, wiring the head unit away from the face plate like lsocoee suggests might be a better, more flexible alternative. Sure would screw with any would be thieves.

Thanks Guys, Keep the good Ideas coming!

 

Ok so I just spent a couple of hours in the mp3car.com forums. There was some amazing stuff on there. I'd love to do some of the crazier stuff I found on there, but I want to keep it a little more simple. I was thinking of just running WMCE on a new Intel board that comes with everything but memory and a power supply you can find here for $66. I would also get a power supply off of mp3car, memory is cheap, and I have a couple of extra 250 gig hard drives laying around. In my setup, I don't see any need for any kind of external input devices, like CD roms or DVD roms because with a 4 gig memory stick you can do about the same. So hopefully the cost will be fairly low and the Computer will be used for mp3's, video files, and gps via MS Streets and Trips. I can even watch HDTV through the WMCE software. The mounting and setup of the screen and relocation of the Head unit are the only two things I haven't ironed out yet. I know I want a 7" touch screen. Looks like I might have a lot of soldering in my future if I want to relocate the faceplate and use a touch screen that doesn't cost more than $200.

Thanks for the comment about the forum though, I didn't even realize mp3car had forums.

 

A back up camera would come in handy, can't wait to see that post!

 

I just saw an install over on a custom audio shop page where they filled in the cubby hole in front of the cup holders under the AC controls with a computer monitor and then left the stock location for the double DIN DVD player. Its something to consider.

 

You would have to ask. You might have to browse through the gallery to find it but its in there somewhere. http://customwheelsboutique.com/gallery/cars/trucks/toyota_tacoma_1/toyota_tacoma_1.htm

 

That actually looked like a fairly simple install, the location would also keep Jonny Law off of your back if they ever noticed something on the screen. Thanks for the link.

 

Are computers not legal in trucks?

 

Thanks, I actually didn't know that. Seems odd with all the GPS and other stuff going in vehicles.