Feeler: Who wants a custom touch screen trim in their car, that RETAINS OEM CD PLAYER

[Jlevi SW]

Hey there guys.
LAFENGAS, local genious, has asked if I would be interested in retailing a product he makes.
Here is a picture:
http://www.lafengas.com/gallery/before%20and%20after/project.JPG

As you see, it retains all the OEM components, and just replaces the empty compartment and the ashtray, which you shouldn't be using anyways :nono: :rofl:

This would require no modification to the car, and you'd be able to customize it upon reciept. There would be some minimal labor involved, but for the most part, it would just clip in.

I believe we could get them in CF weave as well as OEM plastic color/texture.

<b>I'm looking to meet the $180 and UNDER price point</b>

Please give honest opinions, as I'm sure Josh doesn't want to being making these only to discover that they are not demanded.

Thanks all!
JL

[Gir]

This is for just the trim? We'd have to find our own touchscreen units? There's nothing you can set up where you get touchscreen units in bulk for a lower price?

[Deepeyes]

I like it :thumbup: looks nice and clean

[Jlevi SW]

Please vote guys!
I'll see if Josh wants to try and sell a completed system - I have a funny feeling I'd be able to work something out.

JL

[Leistung]

I applaud that you are trying to offer this trim piece because I have seen touch screens installed similarly to this and they are very cool. A clean installation is hard to do with something like this, but $180 seems expensive for a piece of trim. I don't know if anyone else offers it, and recognize the molding etc. is expensive. I just think you might have a hard time selling it without some type of screen included.

-Tyler

[unionjack]

Somebody's been reading Bavarian Autosport.

[Dalton]

I would probably do it. I mean, isnt that one that some guy makes that fits up where the CD player even more expensive than that? Anyway, im all for cleanly installed stuff. I like flip out monitors but wouldnt put one in my car for fear of issues down the road like burnt motors, etc. I'm weird like that so something like this would be perfect. gotta pay to play i suppose. I think its a bit expensive for some trim, albeit i would rather it be around $100 max but you gotta pay to play i suppose. How much is a typical screen that goes in there?

[Masko]

I just think you might have a hard time selling it without some type of screen included.

-Tyler

I agree. Is there a possibility these trim peices could come in a variety of sizes so as to accomadate different screen sizes i.e 5.6", 6", 6.5", 7". Otherwise it looks like a very well done and clean job but I hate to sound like the typical american consumer and request this be given at a lower price. $180 :yikes:

[Beemah_Mon]

This is for just the trim? We'd have to find our own touchscreen units? There's nothing you can set up where you get touchscreen units in bulk for a lower price?

Nice quality touchscreens for overpriced dash trim.

http://www.plasma.com/xenarc/700ts.htm

[WarSong]

$180 for plastic trim? :yikes:

[acitydweller]

FYI youre also removing the ashtray and Cigarette lighter which many of us use to power our gadgets.

[PCGuRu2K]

FYI youre also removing the ashtray and Cigarette lighter which many of us use to power our gadgets.

Get a ac adapter for the glove box :dunno:

I've been looking to put a trim like that in my car for a while now. I'd be definitely interested in a CF one for that price.

[gtc6244]

Hmmm ... while I do know where I can have this done cheaper (and I've done it myself in previous vehicles), it's actually not too bad a price ... I'd prefer to see the actual LCD enclosure molded to the rest of the frame so that it looks more OEM. I've done this before, though, and the fabrication and sanding took close to 40 hours - perhaps not so worthwhile! This also generally involves agreeing on the enclosure beforehand or mailing the front of your enclosure off ...

Jon - if I were the local genius in questions, I'd be tempted to offer a few "standard" sizes for common monitors - ie, the Xenarc 7" and Lilliput 7" & 8" monitors were pretty popular last year with enthusiasts over at MP3car.com - for those that don't know, these guys are all DIYers that put regular computers in cars ....

Good luck!

--GTC

[John330i]

that sig lighter is where i plug in my cop detector!

[yguns27]

I like it but maybe for <$180...

However, the trim doesn't seem to match the interior plastic used for the a/c and stereo.
I assume the monitor also allows us to hook it up to a nav/dvd system?

[JCsE46]

This is for just the trim? We'd have to find our own touchscreen units? There's nothing you can set up where you get touchscreen units in bulk for a lower price?
:werd: I think 180 for just the trim is way too expensive, it needs to be lowered. But setting up the with the touchscreen units included as well as stated above for a lower price, I'll be interested. How much does a touchscreen costs in the market today?

[Nick@Jlevi SW]

that sig lighter is where i plug in my cop detector!
Then hardwire your detector so that it looks MUCH more clean and you dont have a wire dangling down...

[yayopwr]

is there anyway i can replace my 1st gen nav with one of these touch screens to function as a nav, radio cd and all other basic ****?? I think it looks a lot nicer than the tiny oem screen and the bigger oem screen is dough.....

[S2Krazy]

$180 for plastic trim? :yikes:
:werd:... that does seem a bit high

[brandonx46]

i might be interested if it included a screen

[BMW330xi01]

$180 is WAY to high for plastic trim...... i would pay $150-$180 for CF but not the plastic

[mrloneranger]

I'd love one of these to use with a dayton vdo screen. Where can i buy one from and will you ship to the Uk

[bms32502]

i might be interested if it included a screen

:werd:

[tdevil]

how about a molding for those who want to move the AC down and clear out the OEM HU unit that way the whole screen can be moved up.

[Jlevi SW]

I'll talk to Josh.
Basically, this thing is carbon fiber for strength - so whether or not you get a CF finish, you pay for the material and the INCREDIBLY difficult labor.

I'll see about monitors, too :)
You would be able to hook up anything you wanted in there - DVD, nav, carputer, w/e

JL

[04M3Vert]

I'd definately pay the $150 +/- dollar range. The OEM part that I've already bought will only fit a monitor in the 6-1/2" x 3-3/4" size range.

If you start selling this part, I'll scrap the OEM piece and buy one of yours.

FYI - OEM part cost $161 + S&H = $180 (Pic below)

[Jlevi SW]

The oem part is plastic, mass produced, and doesn't have the specs you want - yet people will pay $180 for THAT?!

I was thinking about a $100 price point until Josh told me what's involved - each trim is hand made... and I'll be paying him a LOT of money to make these.
JL

[04M3Vert]

Let me know when you have some for sale.

[sheefo2k]

Jon your a great guy, you ve taken care of me so many times.

so here we go. i personally think its UGLY.. its all about Rich's setup to be honest with you guys.

www.mybimmer.net
where its all at.

[samlb]

i'd pay max $100 + shipping

[brandon_007]

What about us cabriolet drivers? My M# would love one!

[gmhl10]

Ever thought of making that piece leather-wrapped (kinda like how LeatherZ does for the VDO guages)?
It may be able to blend in more than that plastic.
Somehow... that plastic doesn't look like it blends with the OEM plastic.

[sheefo2k]

Ever thought of making that piece leather-wrapped (kinda like how LeatherZ does for the VDO guages)?
It may be able to blend in more than that plastic.
Somehow... that plastic doesn't look like it blends with the OEM plastic.


thats exactly what i was trying to say..
but this looks very hott

http://mybimmer.net/myimages/PioneerLCD.jpg



and then the car puter
http://mybimmer.net/carpclcd2.jpg

[quickSLVR982]

Is that Xenarc Screen that somebody posted a good touchscreen?

Also i would be very interesting if it was less than $180

[76Dragon]

Definitely interested if it came with a touchscreen. Understand the high price with the labor involved but would probably be wiling to spend around $220 with a nice quality touch screen.

[Jlevi SW]

The touch screen alone will cost more than that I would think.

JL

[AssassinGT]

I'm gonna have to agree with sheef BUT, That package is just stupidly priced. 450 For a piece of plastic he wants, I got my Front bumper for cheaper for that, I got my LIP for cheaper than that. I swear if we went with that it'd be welll over 1000, I think What Levi offers is GREAT because its so useful and AFFORDABLE at the same time. Althought I do think that the way it buldges out on the side kinda makes it stray away from the OEM look which I'd like to keep... It doesn't look as clean as i'd like it but in CF that wouldn't be a problem I don't think as much. :thumbup:

[sheefo2k]

i m sure rich would do a group buy tho and offer these guys good prices

[LAFENGAS]

Alright... I'll try to answer some questions and misconceptions here...

Frist a little history. I made this piece for myself because I purchased a Pioneer Navigation unit, wanted the touch screen, but didn't want to lose my factory head unit. I personally don't smoke and only used my "sunglasses" compartment for pens. It seemed like an ideal spot for my Navigation touch screen.

So I made a mold (which was needed for my process to form the Carbon Fiber)

The picture posted is my unit and the first unit I made. I only used a flat black spray paint with some added texture to get what you see... I didn't do much researching to get the actual plastic to match 100%, I CAN find a better alternative... such as the application used for the other dash piece mentioned in this thread, not a problem.

1.) it's Made of Carbon Fiber. I used Carbon Fiber only because I have a lot of it handy and do other projects using this material. It is not a piece made of plastic.

2.) It DOES NOT HAVE TO HAVE A LCD SCREEN. The unit will be made as a "blank". It'll have a hole cut out for the factory button strip and the rest will be left as "open space". This open space can be used for whatever you wish, I can't custom make one application that will suit everybody's needs.

You can put gauges, head units, whatever you wish in this area. There is a reasonable amount of room behind this trim piece to put a lot of things. The actual USUABLE area on the faceplate is 7.625" x 4.25"

cliff note:

Faceplate has a pre cut hole to accomodate the button strip, Over 7 1/2" x 4" area is left open for YOUR creativity, what ever you wish to put in its place.

As far as pricing goes, I gave Jon a number that I would like to receive given the amount of material, overhead costs, and about 4hrs of physical labor to make these worth my time. I enjoy doing this kind of work, it's a hobby and I take a lot of pride in my craftsmanship. If you don't like it or it doesn't suit your needs, that's fine, I understand. But I know several people who wish to keep their Factory Business Head unit and have no other alternative for increasing the ammount of usable dash space.

Bottom line is it's a hand made custom piece using quality materials, I've seen lesser go for a lot more here on the forums. :dunno:

Here's what the piece would look like as a "BLANK" (minus the hole cut for the factory button strip)

http://photos.e46fanatics.com/data/500/7558faceplate-med.JPG

Everybody's oppinions are welcome. I know not everybody can use this particular item, i just wish one was available when I needed it. It would have saved me a lot of time, money, and aggravation.

:hi:

[JimBOT]

Interesting..maybe I can put my gauges there :D

[Jlevi SW]

so, it looks like this unit even bolts up to the factory "screw in" points, yeah?

JL

[LAFENGAS]

so, it looks like this unit even bolts up to the factory "screw in" points, yeah?

JL

No drilling is needed to fit this piece. :)

[beefy6969]

With so many monitors out in the market, its crazy to make it look clean. The point of your project was to make it look flush with your pioneer screen. With so many sizes out there, its almost impossible to do this with another brand. The average buyer must go home and fabricate it to their own LCD. :tsk:

Yes, these applications are great for VGA touchscreen LCDs. IMHO $150 is a decent price.

[Jlevi SW]

Josh - I'm actually playing with the idea of selling these with monitors pre-installed... I mean, how many people here would actually want to do something custom? Not many people have the tools or experience, you know? :dunno:
We could always offer a blank AND one with a monitor built in...

JL

[Jlevi SW]

http://www.mobilevideo4less.com/Merchant2/merchant.mv?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=MV&Product_Code=NAV-SYS610T&Category_Code=NAV

Not cheap, but it's cheaper and cleaner than an AVIC N1 flip-screen install ( I know, I just finished mine )

Also, you have to keep in mind that you could easily do this install without navi, and just have a touch screen monitor for your AV :)

JL

[VMW Racing]

Hey LAFENGAS is that blue carbon fiber? Pretty cool looking, I wonder what color CF would look good with the silver zhp cube? (silver maybe?). It does look like a cool piece. What setup are you running behind this piece, maybe this would help people decide if they are interested. Personally, I am looking for a unit that could do DVD (probably via PS2 I would put in the glovebox, or something like this) and navigation for a decent price. But on the other hand, a avic N1 can be done for about $1100-1300 installed if you try hard enough. So the price point for something like this needs to be way less than this to be interesting. Just throwing some opinions out.... Hey Jon, is your email up yet? Hit me up on AIM.

Cavan

[Evidence]

Josh - I'm actually playing with the idea of selling these with monitors pre-installed... I mean, how many people here would actually want to do something custom? Not many people have the tools or experience, you know? :dunno:
We could always offer a blank AND one with a monitor built in...

JL

i would be interested in one, if i got a monitor pre installed so i could hook up a Ps2

[Jlevi SW]

Hey LAFENGAS is that blue carbon fiber? Pretty cool looking, I wonder what color CF would look good with the silver zhp cube? (silver maybe?). It does look like a cool piece. What setup are you running behind this piece, maybe this would help people decide if they are interested. Personally, I am looking for a unit that could do DVD (probably via PS2 I would put in the glovebox, or something like this) and navigation for a decent price. But on the other hand, a avic N1 can be done for about $1100-1300 installed if you try hard enough. So the price point for something like this needs to be way less than this to be interesting. Just throwing some opinions out.... Hey Jon, is your email up yet? Hit me up on AIM.

Cavan
You'll only get a used or refurbished AVIC for that price - even at wholesale, I paid more than that - and installed it myself

JL

[sheefo2k]

you can get them for aroudn 1200 brand new :D :D.. i told you i would hook you up jon but you were in a hurry ;)

[VMW Racing]

Someone told me tweeter had a sale like a month ago for $1100 installed if you did some arm twisting? But yeah I hear from between $1100 and $1400 depending on who you know :) I am still intested, trying to think of the best way I could set this up nav wise, maybe a pioneer 6.5 screen/nav setup with a aux output for a dvd player? I also think it would be smart to maybe design it with a screen in mind. Plastic wouldn't be bad to manipulate, but trying to cut a square hole in CF would be a little hard for newbies.

Cavan

[LAFENGAS]

Plastic wouldn't be bad to manipulate, but trying to cut a square hole in CF would be a little hard for newbies.

Cavan


Carbon fiber is very strong, but cuts very easily. I personally prefer to use a dremel with a cutting disk, but an exacto knife or utility knife work well. It's actually harder to cut plastic of the same thickness than it is Carbon Fiber. I Swear.

For fine tuning, sand paper easily takes CF down.

I do a lot of fabrication for myself so these issues seem minor and i don't take into account some people have never done anything remotely like this. The hard part is done (making the mold and forming the CF) the easy part is cutting. :thumbup:

Jon, as far as doing a package with screens, I'm game.

[2000_328CI]

Nice quality touchscreens for overpriced dash trim.

http://www.plasma.com/xenarc/700ts.htm
Could this be bought, along with the trim piece and then run a ps2 slim from the glovebox to the back of the tv and use the ps2 as a game system and dvd player?

[Stevo759]

i would love one.....150 seems decent, but for a little more i would like to hav JUST a screen that comes with it...leave it to everyone else to get the dvd player or whatever they want to hook up to it. Ive seen screens go for $150-200

[2000_328CI]

Could this be bought, along with the trim piece and then run a ps2 slim from the glovebox to the back of the tv and use the ps2 as a game system and dvd player?
Could I get some input?

[Jlevi SW]

Chase - yes. The screen will have an auxiliary, or 2, or even 3.

What do you guys think of the idea of a touch screen? The screen is right near the shifter and the other buttons, it seems very logical to me... :dunno:

JL

[LAFENGAS]

Hey LAFENGAS is that blue carbon fiber? Pretty cool looking, I wonder what color CF would look good with the silver zhp cube? (silver maybe?). It does look like a cool piece. What setup are you running behind this piece, maybe this would help people decide if they are interested.
Cavan


Yeah, that was blue CF used for that particular blank you saw. The unit I'm running is the AVIC-90 Pioneer Navigation Unit, with DVD. That particular scren is the ACS-W6210 touchscreen.

[2000_328CI]

Chase - yes. The screen will have an auxiliary, or 2, or even 3.

What do you guys think of the idea of a touch screen? The screen is right near the shifter and the other buttons, it seems very logical to me... :dunno:

JL
I'd definately be up for it... considering you can buy a touch screen for only 80 bucks... that means for the 180 for the dash piece plus 80 for the screen plus the ps2 slim you could have a dvd player and ps2 in your car for only 300 bucks or so... when compared to a flip out unit, thats quite the deal... plus it would look damn cool. Would it be possible to attach the screen to the cars stereo?

[76Dragon]

man i hope there's enough people interested to make this happen. The thought of not having to take out the stock stereo is the most appealing thing for this product. I'd definitely be down to buying one with a touch screen. :thumbup:

[VMW Racing]

I am just trying to think though, what kind of a "general" nav system could we simply hook up to a touchscreen, does anything exist that allows you to hook it up to any screen?

Cavan

[Jlevi SW]

Touch screen for $80? Wow... I wonder what the quality is like though.
My NON-Touch plasma 7" monitors were $180ea, to give you an idea of what a quality monitor costs...

JL

[VMW Racing]

I'd definately be up for it... considering you can buy a touch screen for only 80 bucks... that means for the 180 for the dash piece plus 80 for the screen plus the ps2 slim you could have a dvd player and ps2 in your car for only 300 bucks or so... when compared to a flip out unit, thats quite the deal... plus it would look damn cool. Would it be possible to attach the screen to the cars stereo?

What touch screen can you get for $80? Link?

C

[SrCsTc]

I'd definately be up for it... considering you can buy a touch screen for only 80 bucks...


:lmao:

[VMW Racing]

:lmao:

That is what I was thinking.... By the way I sent you a PM last week, never heard back.

Cavan

[SrCsTc]

That is what I was thinking.... By the way I sent you a PM last week, never heard back.

Cavan
Sorry, lemme check.

[LAFENGAS]

Sorry, lemme check.


Your faceplate looks great! Nice and clean. :thumbup: - to great craftsmanship!

[Lucas]

Is it possible to fit Xenarc 700TSV/700TS in that faceplate? :hmm:
If yes.....when are you going to start selling it?
I'll be interested to buy one. :thumbup:

[Jlevi SW]

So I take it you guys are completely against the idea of a "blank" that you can cut to your own spec for guages, etc? Everyone here wants us to pre-determine what monitor setups are right for you, and just pre-assemble it?

JL

[76Dragon]

So I take it you guys are completely against the idea of a "blank" that you can cut to your own spec for guages, etc? Everyone here wants us to pre-determine what monitor setups are right for you, and just pre-assemble it?

JL

Yes I think that is the general concensus :thumbup:

[Jlevi SW]

Taken to heart :thumbup:

[quest330ci]

Id do it at $100, but I would need to hold at least a 7" screen.

[76Dragon]

any decisions made on this GB? :thumbup:

[LAFENGAS]

any decisions made on this GB? :thumbup:

Since a lot of people want the screens already installed, i have to find a good quality screen and make these preinstalled. I'm sorry, but $80 touchscreens aren't going to cut it...you have a BMW, it will need a screen of moderate quality.

If someone wants to buy themselves a $80 touchscreen and have me install it in a blank, i may make arrangements to do that.

I'll give JLevi some screens I think will work well and you guys can vote on what you want installed.

Give me some feedback guys,.....

Screen Suggestions? Does it HAVE to be a Touch Screen?

[JimBOT]

Would you still be able to make a blank if we want? Thanks Josh!

[mtnbound]

Guys, this is a great concept and I hate to be a wet blanket, BUT since Jon posted the poll and is soliciting feedback, I think even at $150, it would be way overpriced. I don't necessarily see how, without a monitor, this would be different than say, all of the CF aftermarket shifter trim pieces or gauge trims that are readily available as low as $40.00. Again, while this application would be much cooler than those pieces, bottom line is that it's a fabricated piece of CF or plastic.
Don't get me wrong, I REALLY dig the ingenuity and passion for this!

[tdevil]

im paying 400 for custom monitor trim but hopefully the money is worth it in terms of quality.

prob should show a few pics of the trim then set a price.

[LAFENGAS]

Guys, this is a great concept and I hate to be a wet blanket, BUT since Jon posted the poll and is soliciting feedback, I think even at $150, it would be way overpriced. I don't necessarily see how, without a monitor, this would be different than say, all of the CF aftermarket shifter trim pieces or gauge trims that are readily available as low as $40.00. Again, while this application would be much cooler than those pieces, bottom line is that it's a fabricated piece of CF or plastic.
Don't get me wrong, I REALLY dig the ingenuity and passion for this!

I guess the difference is this isn't mass produced.... as stated before... these are hand made for the most part. You said it yourself, "bottom line is that it's a fabricated piece of CF".... go to somebody, anybody and ask them how much they'll charge for a one time application. The first one I made, cost me about $400, and that didn't include my time.

My cost is about $30 for materials and overhead. Carbon Fiber, Epoxy, Vacuum Bagging Supplies (i.e. bleeder clother, breather fabric, bagging, plastic sheeting), Vacuum oil (needs to be replaced every 3 made), electricity...etc, etc.

If i were to make a couple hundred or so...i could spend more money on a more efficient system, but that's not the case.

Once it's off the mold, it needs to be trimmed, sanded, painted, fit, holes cut,.. and if a screen is being fit...it needs more work, including a backing support piece, more fitting, more supplies, etc.

About 4 hrs of work are needed after the piece comes off the mold (In addition to the 30mins to set up the epoxy process and 8hrs of wait time to cure).. So if I were to sell these at $40, my time is valued at less then $2.50/hr. Go to your local car install shop and see if their labor rates are this low.

This is supposed to be an option to resort to for those who want a LCD screen in their dash and keep the Business CD or whatever head unit they have in their current location.

I enjoy doing this kind of work especially since not a lot of people can do it for themselves. However, i have plenty of projects that I would like to do for myself and this effort has to be worth my freetime as well.

:)

[04M3Vert]

Lafengas your price of $150 (has this been set?) is completely acceptable. I've priced other custom installs for a similar piece and the "shops" are trying to get $500.

There explanation (the shops), it's a one time piece and the set up cost will be at least $300 just for the mold work. They then need to be paid for the actual production of the piece and estimate it at an additional $200.

I know these shops usually charge excessive labor rates, so the $500 may be an overpriced quote, but I think it more than validates your right to ask for the $150 price. I assume your doing this on your free time, and I think we can all agree OUR free time is much more valuable time.

Currently I'm trying to close the deal on another piece that I've already started the process of buying, but if it falls through, I'd definately pay you the $150 for a blank.

[dw_uk2000]

Lafengas, as mentioned in my email, I am very interested!

Especially if it came with a touchscreen already installed, in my last car I had a Lilliput 7" screen and I can recommend it.

Might be an idea if there is enough interest to provide two models e.g a VGA touchscreen model like the Lilliput for Car PC users and a Pioneer screen for those that don't.

Just an idea, but as I say would be very interested in the first model if you do one, fancy the idea of getting my car pc in the Bimmer. :woot:

[BigFas]

I've only just been directed to this thread, great idea, I would be absolutely interested.

I would love a blank to cut to size, I'm getting a 6.8" Necvox screen and I'd be happy to modify to fit.

Let us know how this works out, but as I said, definitely interested

[76Dragon]

:bump:

[bigjae1976]

Everyone is complaining about $180 but I bet you'y pay over $300 at any car audio store to have something like this made. Considering the mass produced BMW part is $180, I think that this is a pretty good deal.

If I had a desire to put a screen in my car, I'd jump at this For $180.

And Bavarian Autoworks was charging $50 for some stupid speakers rings to mount 5.25 speakers to, people apparently bought that.

Srcstc was selling his touchscreen trim for $350 and people bought that.

Jon, $180 is a great deal. :thumbup:

[76Dragon]

:hi: Anything happening with this GB?

[LAFENGAS]

:hi: Anything happening with this GB?

I am in the process of trying to locate a good all around LCD Screen. If anybody has suggestions to offer up, please post a link. Black framed screens would be the best for interior matching.


Also, blanks will be available for those who wish to customize their own panels with gauges, push button start, or whatever.

[Lucas]

I am in the process of trying to locate a good all around LCD Screen. If anybody has suggestions to offer up, please post a link. Black framed screens would be the best for interior matching.


Also, blanks will be available for those who wish to customize their own panels with gauges, push button start, or whatever.

I think these are the best: Xenarc 700TS/TSV (http://www.xenarc.com/product/700ts.html) , Lilliput 7" (http://www.bigbruin.com/reviews/lilliput/index.php) :)

[huyner328]

That mold, looks like you could fit 2-3 Boost/Type gauges and a EDFC beneath it all. :)

Price point, reasonable.

[LAFENGAS]

I think these are the best: Xenarc 700TS/TSV (http://www.xenarc.com/product/700ts.html) , Lilliput 7" (http://www.bigbruin.com/reviews/lilliput/index.php) :)

The Xenarc screen you posted looks great. It's available in black as well. It's really at the limits with its size (7.75" x 4.75") But, are fanatics going to be willing to purchase these, complete with the faceplates for around $500-$550?

These screens alone cost about $400. IT IS A GREAT SCREEN THOUGH, you can do pretty much everything with it.

Fanatics, give me your feedback.

[76Dragon]

Yes! Yes! I would do the whole package for around $550 to $600. No doubt. :thumbup:

[3quarterI]

been waiting for something like this. that ^ price range is perfect

[SG John]

I would go for that package!!

[DarrenE46]

Im really interested in this. I think a more attractive price would be $99.

[edit]: The package for $500 would be awesome!!! :woot:

[-CT-]

from what im gathering theres no mass item being produced here. There is obviously people willing to pay close to the price you want for it. I say go ahead with selling to those people. That way every1 can get feedback / more pics which will probably help your sales :D.

On another note what are we talking about shipping to the UK and by the looks of it theres a few of us so maybe we could organize a group buy :dunno: .

[76Dragon]

:bump:

[Ci Fan]

The lilliput is a very good screen for the money. A $150-$180 is reasonable for the amount of work involved the fabricate a piece like this.

[SrCsTc]

The lilliput is a very good screen for the money. A $150-$180 is reasonable for the amount of work involved the fabricate a piece like this.

The lilliput it crap IMHO. You can never see anything on it during the daytime.
It's great if you only drive your car at night. :thumbdwn:
The Xenarc is the only way to go.

[LAFENGAS]

Just an Update:

I have a perfect Fit with the piece. Nothing will need to be done to it except replace your factory sunglasses/ash tray unit. No drilling, or screws.

I ordered a paint that not only replicates the exact aesthetic OEM finish, but it has a really soft feel to it. It's actually better then stock, it feels awesome. I wish our interiors came like this. (kinda pricey, but no intent of added cost to product, just quality)

I'm still trying to finalize a screen, one that is 'all around' and can suit everybody's needs.

[76Dragon]

any updates on this thread? A good number of people i think are still interested. :thumbup:

[BimmerDoc]

Just an Update:

I have a perfect Fit with the piece. Nothing will need to be done to it except replace your factory sunglasses/ash tray unit. No drilling, or screws.

I ordered a paint that not only replicates the exact aesthetic OEM finish, but it has a really soft feel to it. It's actually better then stock, it feels awesome. I wish our interiors came like this. (kinda pricey, but no intent of added cost to product, just quality)

I'm still trying to finalize a screen, one that is 'all around' and can suit everybody's needs.
pics, updates??? man i cant wait anymore :bawling:

[LAFENGAS]

pics, updates??? man i cant wait anymore :bawling:

unfortunately for the project, i have been using all my free time trying to get my car ready to put on the road (a lot of fabricating and custom work). As soon as I get the work done just to get my car on the road.. i'll be ready to start production of these pieces.

I have found a perfect match for the OEM finish of this piece.

As of right now, I don't know what to do about the monitor of if it will even come with one. It's too hard to choose a screen that everybody will like or are willing to compromise the quality with price.

Maybe i'll do custom fitting for people whow purchase a screen and send it to me when they buy a faceplate.

Hopefully I can get my car on the road next weekend.

[Ivegotissues666]

unfortunately for the project, i have been using all my free time trying to get my car ready to put on the road (a lot of fabricating and custom work). As soon as I get the work done just to get my car on the road.. i'll be ready to start production of these pieces.

I have found a perfect match for the OEM finish of this piece.

As of right now, I don't know what to do about the monitor of if it will even come with one. It's too hard to choose a screen that everybody will like or are willing to compromise the quality with price.

Maybe i'll do custom fitting for people whow purchase a screen and send it to me when they buy a faceplate.

Hopefully I can get my car on the road next weekend.

If it came with a xenarc touchscreen I would definately be down for this

[OisinT]

The lilliput it crap IMHO. You can never see anything on it during the daytime.
It's great if you only drive your car at night. :thumbdwn:
The Xenarc is the only way to go.

how much do you charge for your piece?

[VoteForPedro]

:bump: Any update on this?

[Interlude]

update please with pics.. even if someone can post the original pic it would be great... it seems like its a broken link.

One question for you audio/visual guru's. If this is installed with a laptop computer in the trunk. How can you hook the stock head unit up with the new system? Will there be a simple interface harness in this kit?

Thanks for the info! :thumbup:

[Interlude]

bump and waiting impatiently :woot:

[LAFENGAS]

bump and waiting impatiently :woot:


sorry for the wait, i modified the mold a few times to allow for a larger screen. All the revisions ate through my supplies and I've been waiting for one thing in particular that nobody seems to stock, or ran out of.

I am out of the country and once i return, it's full speed ahead. I don't have access to any pictures at the moment, but i will try getting some soon.

The demand for this is obvious, so i'll make it a priority in my free time.
:thumbup: thanks to everyone for expressing their interest.

--josh

[hovisalan]

does anyone know what would be involved in hooking up a nav system to this screen?...price?

:drool:

[chilenko]

Please keep us updated...

(had to post something to subscribe :D )

[numberone]

Update???

[LAFENGAS]

I'm pretty much ready to go. I have an improved mold which looks a bit nicer and fits a larger screen. I made it as large as possible to fit a screen and still keep the button strip.

I'm waiting on somebody to send me their newly purchased Xenarc screen so i can fit it and use it as a mold. For those who plan on using a different screen or going with something else (i.e. gauges) then I can sell blanks for their own customizing.

anybody who's seriously interested PM me. Pics soon i hope.

[RRRize]

I'm pretty much ready to go. I have an improved mold which looks a bit nicer and fits a larger screen. I made it as large as possible to fit a screen and still keep the button strip.

I'm waiting on somebody to send me their newly purchased Xenarc screen so i can fit it and use it as a mold. For those who plan on using a different screen or going with something else (i.e. gauges) then I can sell blanks for their own customizing.

anybody who's seriously interested PM me. Pics soon i hope.

Do you have pics of the trim becuase the original pic no longer shows. Please post it or pm it.

Thank you.

Ron

[LAFENGAS]

http://photos.e46fanatics.com/data/500/7558project.JPG

this is the general idea. In this case, i used a screen from my Pioneer Navigation unit. Since this picture however, I made the fitment even tighter and purchased a paint that replicates the OEM finish and feel.

I will work on finishing the updated piece and getting the updated pictures as well.

[Lucas]

Any updates?

I'm just curious: Is there enough space for buttons (dsc, heated seats) when the car is steptronic? :hmm:

[hovisalan]

what about putting a spot on the left side of the screen for the cigerrette lighter? t

[edrock200]

I'd buy one today if it was available. I spent a lot more than that for a custom plate from another member but if I didn't have to replace the stereo I'd prefer that. This thread mentions it'll work with the xenarc but pics show it with a panasonic, will it work with both? Sorry if already answered.

[VMW Racing]

You should list how much you want to sell the surround for, many on here would be interested if reasonable.


thx,


Cavan

[hovisalan]

^^^ yeah, also what can you run on that screen?

[Lucas]

One month ago I bought this bezel from Janus. :)
http://photos.e46fanatics.com/data/3076/7052XenarcBezel.jpg
Perfect product, excellent quality, (not to mention being cheaper than the competition) .... simply the best, like almost everything MADE IN GERMANY :clap:

[LAFENGAS]

looks good....but what do you do with your radio? I see your A/C controls are relocated down, do you have any pics showing more of that? Also, what size screen has to be purchased to fit that?

Here's mine as an update. I've decided to only sell the blank, since the screen people wish to use varies from person to person.

http://ubrf.ddetail.com/lafengas/faceplate_DIY/faceplate6.JPG
http://ubrf.ddetail.com/lafengas/faceplate_DIY/faceplate7.JPG
http://ubrf.ddetail.com/lafengas/faceplate_DIY/faceplate8.JPG

[LAFENGAS]

since I've had A LOT of questions. This is a picture of the blank...how it would be shipped.

It's a molded carbon fiber piece that's cut to shape and fit the console area perfectly. Because so many people want to do their own work or incorporate their own stuff to this area (i.e. stealth V1 radar display, gauges, LCD screens, phone chargers, etc) it's easier to just leave it blank.

My suggestion to people is to get whatever work they need done...at a local stereo install shop and send it back to me and i'll paint the trim piece to match your OEM factory interior finish for FREE.


here's the blank. $125

http://ubrf.ddetail.com/lafengas/faceplate_DIY/blank_faceplate.JPG

[Lay2Low]

Can you PM me the price, thanks

[LAFENGAS]

Can you PM me the price, thanks

I just edited my last post.. included the price. $125.

[edrock200]

So...I take it this means you won't do any of the cusotmization for some extra $$? I'd basically want the finished piece you showed right before the carbon fiber one, but to fit a xenarc.

[B8888KC]

Is there any way to relocate the 12V power source? I'm gonna need that a lot, especially to charge my cell phone...

[LAFENGAS]

So...I take it this means you won't do any of the cusotmization for some extra $$? I'd basically want the finished piece you showed right before the carbon fiber one, but to fit a xenarc.

I may do it on an individual basis...it's just too hard for me to find any 'extra' time with my venture starting a business. If I made a mold for one certain screen, 9/10ths of the people will want a different screen or maybe not a screen at all. For me, a blank is the best way to go and give you 100% freedom with what you want to do with it.




Is there any way to relocate the 12V power source? I'm gonna need that a lot, especially to charge my cell phone...

you can do what I did... just relocate it. It's very easy to do. Here's an example of what I did with mine and it still looks nice and clean.

http://ubrf.ddetail.com/lafengas/faceplate_DIY/diy_nav.JPG

[mannycoupe]

please please can i have one,just lower the price a bit you would make a lot of sales by this. I have been waiting a long time for this trim just release it now


THANKS


MANNY :bow: :bow: :bow: :woot: :woot: :bow: :bow: :bow:

[VMW Racing]

please please can i have one,just lower the price a bit you would make a lot of sales by this. I have been waiting a long time for this trim just release it now


THANKS


MANNY :bow: :bow: :bow: :woot: :woot: :bow: :bow: :bow:



Manny,
I hate to say it, and I think some others would agree while other cheap asses would get pissed for me saying this, but the price is pretty fair considering what others sell pieces like this for. $125 isn't that bad, we own BMW's not hyundai's.....


-C

[edrock200]

Manny,
I hate to say it, and I think some others would agree while other cheap asses would get pissed for me saying this, but the price is pretty fair considering what others sell pieces like this for. $125 isn't that bad, we own BMW's not hyundai's.....


-C
I agree, this is very reasonably priced, regardless of what kind of car it's for. This is a custom made piece with R&D time that needs to be compensated for.

[index]

Lafengas, your PM is full

[edrock200]

lafengas, are you checking your pm's?

[LAFENGAS]

lafengas, are you checking your pm's?


yeah, my PM box has been cleared up for a few days, I haven't recieved anything from you though.

[tekk1957]

Hello there, I am interested in getting one of these blank panels from LEFENGAS , i have sent him a pm however he hasnt answered.Would you have an email for him or can you suggest an alternative source for this item.

Cheers

George

[snowcatxx87]

holy thread resurection batman