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How to: Install Overhead Compass / Temperature Gauge

Discussion in '2nd Gen. Tacomas (2005-2015)' started by jefferson, Apr 2, 2009.

  1. Apr 2, 2009 at 9:12 PM
    #1
    jefferson

    jefferson [OP] needs to stop cruising Buy/Sell/Trade....

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    toyota brand hitch and uhaul wiring harness, fog lamps on anytime, bed lamps, map lights on with dome, day time running lamps, remove secondary air filter, painted bumper grill, Double Din touch screen stereo, Sockmonkey custom SR5 decal, door & seatbelt bells disabled, painted engine cover, installed compass/temperature overhead console, failed mod: passenger side auto down window switches, weathertech front mats, RedLine hood struts, Cheap Beep piezo buzzer locking beep, 5100s in the front set at 2.5, 5100s in the rear, AAL, hitch safe, revenge fab sliders, bed bar, prerunner light, cb wired
    I'm gonna show you how to install the overhead compass and temperature gauge into your Tacoma if you don't already have it installed from the factory.

    First off, get ahold of one of these bad boys:

    Photo0070_b2e9a9b8355d865b5debeeed5f6b7fbca0f733fa.jpg

    I got it from our member Sideways. He steals them out of cars. He'll have another sometime soon I'm sure. Mostly because he steals them out of cars. He packed me a sending unit with the console. For a bit i thought maybe you could take the compass out of the console and install it into your own console.. but because of the riveted tabs that would make it very hard to do. Might as well install the whole thing unless you wanna go nutty on an expensive part.. I don't.

    So now lets find the plug for the sending unit for the temperature gauge portion of the console. You have to fish for it a bit.. for me, it was tucked away and taped BEHIND the horns. Here's a picture of it looped around in tape off to the left.. (i was laying on the ground, looking up)

    Photo0071_1cac2e1379dfc3bcc5b04ab969e5d24e90355bbc.jpg

    The best way to approach this is around the hood latch and reach your hand under the horns and pull the tape away:

    Photo0072_58957fad08862d697a2d4e6ddac80ddc14d10c0d.jpg

    Photo0075_655a07b0cfc0b6344ab1e881998c29ee4085a5f7.jpg

    Now lets grab the sending unit

    Photo0076_400013f5a993fa7b1c872cee3760e55e3c288fc8.jpg

    and install it into the new found plug

    Photo0077_c26fdb597b0959a95939483270e0e46469149e00.jpg

    Here is the stock location for the temp sending unit. The sending unit's white clip attaches it to the hood latch bracket

    Photo0079_0277454137e97fff756a3d04f32f1d7fd9faceef.jpg

    We're done here. Time to move inside. I have already done the mod to make the map lights come on with the dome light. I'll show you how to move that mod over to the new console too!

    Photo0080_d96efab7297bf7490f886035f3b8d50e200dda6c.jpg

    Start by unscrewing the only screw in this entire mod, located inside the cup holder:

    Photo0081_23de26079904626db3473c8afafbc2a20f58585f.jpg

    Pull down on the front of the console. Its held on by these little snap connectors, so give it a good yank and it'll come loose

    Photo0082_d1f920dbcb997c383a9b861fc2da975be6addd1b.jpg

    Slide it forward and unhook the back of the console from the headliner. It will be very obvious

    Photo0083_4739dd45d826e5c29ae0efddb7c0745e4acf10da.jpg

    You'll have the two plugs only if you have not done the dome light mod.. for me, that black wire is my dome light mod's wire.

    Photo0085_500b96edd169fe532e26aff928a6385281e9a3fb.jpg

    Now lets walk our old console inside next to the new one. (Again, these are steps you can skip if you have not and will not do the dome light mod.) Notice where my diode is.. this was an awesome spot. I want to resolder it in the same place on the new console. I left it tooo exposed last time, so i'll clean that up a bit.

    Photo0088_d419daf405deb867cd67788df2ef402781bc1592.jpg

    So lets unsolder that guy

    Photo0089_3e3a9aa7587ff41dcb81b01ddf887fe90329bfae.jpg

    Photo0092_6ae94d9259d479a6b31009480342ddeac05e2b36.jpg


    New console:


    Photo0091_adc779e5664c42d59b6e60e94f72aec948e4d0fc.jpg

    Photo0093_0f100172c877146b6a64ada2460587f75a3831af.jpg

    Tada. now I'm just gonna clean up my own install a bit. You can also see how i'm expecting to connect the black wire still in my truck to this console with that clip at the end. I like this because it makes the console removable.

    Photo0095_0fea6a191c0805374c497792cbe5ca57433a53c9.jpg

    Now just reverse the process to get it back up there. I hooked up my black wire first, then hooked up the two plugs. Install the back of the console first with the hooks and then snap the snap connectors in. I'd have pictures of this, but it got dark. So here is proof that both the mod for the dome light AND my temperature / compass actually work.

    Photo0098_6375f4542498bbf60d2bb5c6b1218df9e656fecb.jpg

    Good times.

    EDIT:

    Now, if you just wanted to add JUST the temp unit directly to your unit in the space where the garage door opener is on your current unit, Car15 figured out how to do it. Below is a picture and description, found on page 3 of this thread:

    [​IMG]

    He ended up using epoxy on the tabs, and screws/washers where the plastic rivets go.
    You need to have the two parts (the temp screen/unit itself and the cover plate) Good
    job bud
     
    TreeHugger21 and TRDSport10 like this.
  2. Apr 3, 2009 at 10:39 AM
    #2
    jefferson

    jefferson [OP] needs to stop cruising Buy/Sell/Trade....

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    toyota brand hitch and uhaul wiring harness, fog lamps on anytime, bed lamps, map lights on with dome, day time running lamps, remove secondary air filter, painted bumper grill, Double Din touch screen stereo, Sockmonkey custom SR5 decal, door & seatbelt bells disabled, painted engine cover, installed compass/temperature overhead console, failed mod: passenger side auto down window switches, weathertech front mats, RedLine hood struts, Cheap Beep piezo buzzer locking beep, 5100s in the front set at 2.5, 5100s in the rear, AAL, hitch safe, revenge fab sliders, bed bar, prerunner light, cb wired
    p.s.

    People have had issues in the past with the console’s screen going out. I do recommend resoldering one of the parts within the console before installing. View SecretSquirrl’s link on how to do this here: http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/2nd-gen-tacomas/18497-overhead-console-fix.html

    ALSO:

    DO CHECK and see if you have the wires for the temp sending unit. Some of us, even SR5 people do NOT have the plug for the unit. If you do not, its not totally over - you can add it on.. just click here for the writeup on that:

    http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/2nd-gen-tacomas/39264-ambient-temperature-gauge-sensor-install.html
     
  3. Apr 3, 2009 at 11:17 AM
    #3
    Notty

    Notty Well-Known Member

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    Nice write up!!! :headbang:

    On a related note, are any of the wires in the harness going to the compass/temp gauge easy enough to tap into for hard wiring a radar detector? I have seen the DIY to run the wire down into the dash, but that seems like overkill if I can just have the detector up by the mirror and run the wire about 6 inches or so into the headliner and tap into that harness.
     
  4. Apr 3, 2009 at 11:20 AM
    #4
    TacticalBacon13

    TacticalBacon13 Sorry for party rockin'

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    dude you and your write ups:).
    least this one worked:D.
    good job on the write up. real informative.
     
  5. Apr 3, 2009 at 11:34 AM
    #5
    jefferson

    jefferson [OP] needs to stop cruising Buy/Sell/Trade....

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    05 PreRunner SR5
    toyota brand hitch and uhaul wiring harness, fog lamps on anytime, bed lamps, map lights on with dome, day time running lamps, remove secondary air filter, painted bumper grill, Double Din touch screen stereo, Sockmonkey custom SR5 decal, door & seatbelt bells disabled, painted engine cover, installed compass/temperature overhead console, failed mod: passenger side auto down window switches, weathertech front mats, RedLine hood struts, Cheap Beep piezo buzzer locking beep, 5100s in the front set at 2.5, 5100s in the rear, AAL, hitch safe, revenge fab sliders, bed bar, prerunner light, cb wired
    YES very easy. That is exactly where i would tap in because they're only hot with the key ON. SO its a perfect area to tap into, and easy to get to.

    HAHA I KNOW HUH?? Hey - i'll write it up if it works (and even if it doesnt!) and haven't found a write up on it yet! I know plenty of people have done this, but it might help someone at some point to see that step by step.. Who knows, but thank you!
     
  6. Apr 3, 2009 at 5:04 PM
    #6
    Sideways

    Sideways Well-Known Member

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    Inmand09 likes this.
  7. Apr 3, 2009 at 5:11 PM
    #7
    SocalMan22

    SocalMan22 Well-Known Member

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    What Mods!
    Nice write up!!
     
  8. Apr 3, 2009 at 5:17 PM
    #8
    jefferson

    jefferson [OP] needs to stop cruising Buy/Sell/Trade....

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    05 PreRunner SR5
    toyota brand hitch and uhaul wiring harness, fog lamps on anytime, bed lamps, map lights on with dome, day time running lamps, remove secondary air filter, painted bumper grill, Double Din touch screen stereo, Sockmonkey custom SR5 decal, door & seatbelt bells disabled, painted engine cover, installed compass/temperature overhead console, failed mod: passenger side auto down window switches, weathertech front mats, RedLine hood struts, Cheap Beep piezo buzzer locking beep, 5100s in the front set at 2.5, 5100s in the rear, AAL, hitch safe, revenge fab sliders, bed bar, prerunner light, cb wired
    nah, i call you a "acquirer of fine automotive parts" :D

    (Nothin but love!)
     
  9. May 9, 2009 at 4:33 AM
    #9
    MattN03

    MattN03 Well-Known Member

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    Which wires do you tap to hardwire the radar detector if using the overhead console?
     
  10. May 9, 2009 at 2:44 PM
    #10
    MattN03

    MattN03 Well-Known Member

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    UPDATE:

    Found a write up at Tundra Solutions. I tapped the light green wire for power & a black/white wire for ground. Super easy and took 20 minutes tops. Now I have my V1 hardwired :D
     
  11. May 14, 2009 at 8:45 PM
    #11
    Boomerdog

    Boomerdog New Member

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    I read your well written guidelines on putting in a tem p and compass. Although it is well written, I remain intimidated to do it myself. I live in Julian and come down to San Diego often. I have an 07 Access cab 4X4 with a manual 6 speed. I want the temp guage because of the freezing point in winters here in Julian. I would like to chat with you about the process of putting one in my truck. My phone number is 760 765 1160.
    Carl
     
  12. May 14, 2009 at 9:34 PM
    #12
    jefferson

    jefferson [OP] needs to stop cruising Buy/Sell/Trade....

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    toyota brand hitch and uhaul wiring harness, fog lamps on anytime, bed lamps, map lights on with dome, day time running lamps, remove secondary air filter, painted bumper grill, Double Din touch screen stereo, Sockmonkey custom SR5 decal, door & seatbelt bells disabled, painted engine cover, installed compass/temperature overhead console, failed mod: passenger side auto down window switches, weathertech front mats, RedLine hood struts, Cheap Beep piezo buzzer locking beep, 5100s in the front set at 2.5, 5100s in the rear, AAL, hitch safe, revenge fab sliders, bed bar, prerunner light, cb wired
    Sounds great. Its super easy, and you could skip the light mod if you want.. i just threw that in there cause i was doing that at the same time. I'll shoot you a call after 5 tomorrow!
     
  13. May 14, 2009 at 10:47 PM
    #13
    ilg

    ilg VanCity Taco.

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    Great write up. I may just have to do this once I "acquire" the necessary parts. Haha
     
  14. May 14, 2009 at 10:50 PM
    #14
    jefferson

    jefferson [OP] needs to stop cruising Buy/Sell/Trade....

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    toyota brand hitch and uhaul wiring harness, fog lamps on anytime, bed lamps, map lights on with dome, day time running lamps, remove secondary air filter, painted bumper grill, Double Din touch screen stereo, Sockmonkey custom SR5 decal, door & seatbelt bells disabled, painted engine cover, installed compass/temperature overhead console, failed mod: passenger side auto down window switches, weathertech front mats, RedLine hood struts, Cheap Beep piezo buzzer locking beep, 5100s in the front set at 2.5, 5100s in the rear, AAL, hitch safe, revenge fab sliders, bed bar, prerunner light, cb wired
    hahaha "acquire" away! Just not from me ;)
     
  15. May 14, 2009 at 11:43 PM
    #15
    adio

    adio Well-Known Member

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    HI
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    is there any sites that sells this parts?
     
  16. May 15, 2009 at 2:57 PM
    #16
    kevinff

    kevinff Member

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    Ditto. I haven't been able to find a part number either. I have a 2009 4x4 w/Access cab
     
  17. May 15, 2009 at 3:13 PM
    #17
    jefferson

    jefferson [OP] needs to stop cruising Buy/Sell/Trade....

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    toyota brand hitch and uhaul wiring harness, fog lamps on anytime, bed lamps, map lights on with dome, day time running lamps, remove secondary air filter, painted bumper grill, Double Din touch screen stereo, Sockmonkey custom SR5 decal, door & seatbelt bells disabled, painted engine cover, installed compass/temperature overhead console, failed mod: passenger side auto down window switches, weathertech front mats, RedLine hood struts, Cheap Beep piezo buzzer locking beep, 5100s in the front set at 2.5, 5100s in the rear, AAL, hitch safe, revenge fab sliders, bed bar, prerunner light, cb wired
    DO remember that the 2009 gauge is different (not in style but in electronics) so a 05-08 console will not work in a 2009
     
    TRDSport10 likes this.
  18. May 17, 2009 at 10:55 AM
    #18
    kevinff

    kevinff Member

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    Thx. Anyone have a 2009 compass/temp gauge for sale or an online sales source?
     
  19. Jun 3, 2009 at 7:36 AM
    #19
    nhtundra

    nhtundra Well-Known Member

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    Has anyone tried to retrofit a unit from another Toyota model? Like Sienna? Lots of them on ebay. I may give it a shot once I get my '09 (tommorow).
     
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    #19
  20. Jun 3, 2009 at 8:08 AM
    #20
    jefferson

    jefferson [OP] needs to stop cruising Buy/Sell/Trade....

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    toyota brand hitch and uhaul wiring harness, fog lamps on anytime, bed lamps, map lights on with dome, day time running lamps, remove secondary air filter, painted bumper grill, Double Din touch screen stereo, Sockmonkey custom SR5 decal, door & seatbelt bells disabled, painted engine cover, installed compass/temperature overhead console, failed mod: passenger side auto down window switches, weathertech front mats, RedLine hood struts, Cheap Beep piezo buzzer locking beep, 5100s in the front set at 2.5, 5100s in the rear, AAL, hitch safe, revenge fab sliders, bed bar, prerunner light, cb wired
    only an 09 console will work on an 09. they changed the way they work for 09, so anything from 05-08 works ONLY on 05-08 models. You try a 06 on an 09 tacoma, it will read "--". SO if you get one from a Sienna, make sure its an 09 to rule this out.
     
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    #20

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