Today I heard back from PIE.Net:
"The X3 system will work on this application. The parts you will need
are: X3(brain module) and X3-FRDW (vehicle specific harness). The X3 systeminterrupts the audio from the CD changer allowing input from three differentRCA audio sources. The unit comes with a wired source selector (3 footcable) to toggle between the CD changer and the three auxiliary inputs.Part# X3-EXT/15 is available for applications where additional sourceselector cable length is required. Please note that the X3 systems onlyinterrupts the CD change audio lines, the CD changer is not paused."
This sounded like a somewhat good solution to playing my IPod through my Visteon Audiophile/Nav System. So I went to the LogJam.Com site to price the parts:
http://www.logjamelectronics.com/piex3auxconv.html
They said:
"The PIE X-3 Auxiliary Input Converter system allows the user to add up to three auxiliary input sources and have them connected directly between the CD changer and most factory audio systems. Now you can connect your MP3 portable player, an XM radio, and an iPod, or any combination of three separate audio sources, all at the same time AND still use your OEM or aftermarket CD Changer! Now you can have it all with the PIE X-3 system. The X-3 system interrupts the audio of the CD changer, switching between the three user-selectable RCA level auxiliary audio sources, and defaults back to the CD changer if desired.
The X-3 system consists of two parts, the Selector Brain Module or X-3, and the vehicle-specific T-harness, each ordered separately.
***IMPORTANT: Must have a functioning factory CD changer or an after-market CD Changer, and the CD changer will need to be running with a CD playing in order for the X-3 system to work."
"The X-3 includes a selector brain module and wired remote selector display. The X-3 module has 3 pairs of RCA inputs for connecting three separate audio sources. A wired remote selector display can be hand-held or mounted anywhere convenient in the passenger compartment. The remote display has a single push-button switch that toggles between each of the 3 inputs and the CD changer and supplies a visual prompt (AUX 1, AUX 2, AUX 3, CD) of the selected source. A 15ft extension cable, the X3-EXT/15, is available if extra cable length is needed to mount the X3 Source Indicator in your passenger compartment.
P.I.E. X-3 Multi-Source Auxiliary Input Converter
X3padRetail Price: $69.95padLOGJAM Price: $59.95
The vehicle-specific T-harness connects the X-3 system into the vehicles audio system. T-harnesses are available for Ford, GM and Chrysler vehicles, with harness compatible with import vehicles to be available soon.
P.I.E. X3-FRDW X3 T-Harness for Ford Vehicles
The X3-FRDW T-harness connects the X-3 brain module to Ford vehicle's audio systems. Vehicle must have a 12-pin data cable at factory CD changer location.
***NOTE: NOT compatible with 2003 models equipped with the 6-Disc in-dash headunit or factory navigation system.
[WHOOPS !]
"Fits the following Vehicles:
* Ford 2003 Crown Victoria (pre-wired)
* 1997-2003 Escort (pre-wired)
P.I.E. X3-FRDW X3 T-Harness for Ford Vehicles
X3FRDWpadRetail Price: $39.95padLOGJAM Price: $29.95"
I replied to PIE (in part):
Just few questions before I purchase and post this solution for our members.
I viewed what LogJam.Com had to sell with your suggestions and they state the following on the harness:
"P.I.E. X3-FRDW X3 T-Harness for Ford Vehicles
The X3-FRDW T-harness connects the X-3 brain module to Ford vehicle's audio systems. Vehicle must have a 12-pin data cable at factory CD changer location.
NOTE: NOT compatible with 2003 models equipped with the 6-Disc in-dash headunit or factory navigation system."
The Ford Escape Hybrid has a Visteon factory-installed Navigation System so I am concerned this may not work.
The 40G IPod really has only three ways to connect:
Firewire, USB 2.0, and the Apple Docking solution. What cables are required to connect to the RCA connection on the harness?
I understand that a CD must be playing in order for this to work. What happens when the CD reaches the end of its run?
Is the RCA connection powered so as to keep charging the IPod or must the IPod be tethered through a different connection to charge?
Finally, this solution seems to be very limited. I wonder if you foresee a solution near in the future whereas an IPod can be connected directly to the Visteon Audiophile and by the use of radio buttons information on the IPod be accessed? I know that XM and Sirus are selling modules for the Visteon to expand useage now.
I appreciate all your help. Thank You.
Mike
I will post what I find out. I love to joust with windmills.