The Easiest RV Dash Radio Upgrade I've Done

This is a continuation of the previous dash upgrade video I did on my 2001 Beaver Patriot Thunder. Not only did I want a cup holder and phone charger, I wanted a dash radio I could safely operate driving down the road. The Kenwood radio in the RV was newer, but had small very difficult to read and figure out buttons that were also important for function, while driving. I decided I wanted a large touch screen that I could read, with very few buttons, with a volume knob, and had features I could use in the future if I wanted. So I settled on this SSL model DD7CPA-S multimedia center. I have never installed or used one, but it looked pretty slick and the reviews were kind. EASY does not explain how simple the install, use, and bluetooth connectivity was. So far I am very happy with this radio.
Thanks for watching!
SSL DD7CPA-S radio: a.co/d/bdVLA6F

[@55afishead]

the coolest part of this video is he did this all with one hand! 🤣🤣

[@brianjkratzer]

I was just thinking "Why doesn't he have a body cam?", but, he does pull off one handed work quite well.

[@dalerice9461]

Just thought I would update my comments and say once again THANK YOU! A really great addition to our RV. Works like a charm being fast responsive easy to install and everything you said it was. Sound is every bit as good as the Pioneer and I can even see everything at a glance. Safety is big for me so I would not fool with the radio while driving leaving my dear tech challenged wife to sort it out. She thanks you too! You've been an inspiration to improve our aging RV and make it fun. Keep up the great work James!

[@QLFProductions]

Did you find a hands free mic for it?

[@dalerice9461]

I was very dissatisfied with the Pioneer cd player that came with our 2005 Thor Chateau for the same reasons you mentioned. Great radio good sounds but tiny little buttons impossible to press safely while driving. You sold me on this upgrade so it's in the box sitting next to me waiting for me to plunge in and tear apart the Pioneer. Great video and thanks as always for your efforts.

[@Chris_In_Texas]

Personally I would have a switch for the reverse input so that it could be triggered at anytime so if you want to keep an eye on the back of the rig you can while going down the road. Could come in handy. Simple diode on the actual reverse line going directly to that wire and then a +12V through the switch to that input as well. That way it would turn on either in reverse or if you flip the backup camera switch! 👍

[@johns4452]

Well, installed the same stereo today in about 45 mins! Thanks to the sliding screen, it clears the dash brow and the climate controls below on my ‘08 Tiffin. I also used those Wago connectors…wow, what a great invention! I wired the ‘parking break’ wire to the ground connection. It will be great to have Apple CarPlay for the long trips. Thanks again for your video!

[@richlorimer518]

My Tiffin Breeze has the exact same Kenwood radio currently and I've been wanting to replace it with something with a larger touch screen but also don't care for the powered screen, single din radios. This looks perfect and I believe you've just given me a step by step "How to" guide to do it! Thanks James - AZ Expert for another great video!

[@Chris_In_Texas]

Love Wago 221's. I have been using them for many years, both in 12/24VDC automotive and 120/240VAC stuff. According to Wago they are indeed rated for full current and voltage at both DC and AC. Also if there is a high reflection issue, you can add a matte screen protector that would remove most of that and still allow the touch screen to work. I use them on my iPads to help stop the reflections.

[@bigjeep2195]

Wow, radios have came a long way. I like that design for sure.

[@DavidHBurkart]

The latest installment "James' Beaventures & Upgrades". Well done as always. I think the screen shape and trim look very period-correct. For $200, its a bargain indeed. Thank you James!!

[@srt5321]

Your ‘foreshadowing’ popups crack me up every time! 😂 thanks for the video.

[@AZExpert]

Glad you enjoyed!

[@PapaRick68]

Thanks for this vid, believe this car audio will work for my VW bus……sorry I have to start small, hopefully one day I’ll find a Beaver, Country Coach, or Monaco to pull my VW bus

[@dodgeguyz]

That’s a pretty cool looking radio. I went with a Pioneer touch screen in my class A. However I also built an entire new center console to allow double din mounting. The apple car play is a very nice integration. On the park brake switch, I installed an on/off switch to turn mine on and off. I installed a front view camera and this is what I use it for. On the sound quality, I found the speaker wires installed backwards at the speakers. I also installed a set of pioneer 3-ways behind the driver and pass. seats and the sound is incredible!

[@Blakehx]

Sounds great! Do you have a video showing all your work?

[@dodgeguyz]

@@Blakehx no video but I do have some pics of it.

[@mikerandolph2158]

Ha! I was just at that campground (Vail Lake KOA) for the So. Cal. Homebrewer Festival!

[@dustinstinson1595]

Man I love your stuff!!

[@edwardneilander6427]

Nice feature, as always, well done and thorough!😊

[@Dan-hb5iy]

nice upgrades. thank you for some tips great video. have a safe trip cant wait to what is next

[@tacokid13579]

Another great video! Beautiful windshield views with a nice sound edit, neat! Thanks for sharing!

[@jeffpflugrath8607]

Excellent videoJames!!

[@philw7174]

That's a nice Beaver. Sure like seeing you perfect your coach James. Great tips, thank you. Always enjoy your videos, have a great trip. Happy trails!

[@YallAintRight]

It’s Beaver time! I love this rig. And my new RV needs a radio so thank you for making this video.

[@mikeallensonntag]

Loving the mod updates on the beever. That's a really nice classic rv you have there.

[@hddm3]

Hell ya. Can’t wait for more!!!! Thank you

[@geekdomo]

been using wagos for years. Love them!

[@jamesdrew7315]

Good Job James!!!

[@billspoonts]

I know there are mat finish screen protectors. You might have to cut one to fit, but that might really help with the glare. Great review. Might be my next purchase.

[@bengorrell2658]

Thank you James, safe travels 😊

[@williambradley2562]

Great Video for us with Old RV’s … Definitely Considering an Upgrade in the Future … Thanks

[@matthewstrzelecki4280]

I love it you're so good with one hand

[@batillipes]

I bought a similar Boss for my RV in 2022 but have still not installed it so this video is great, since I'm about to do the install.

[@LayloNewt]

I agree with Mike. Great job with one hand install. Radio does look good and i like being able to adjust screen. Thanks James

[@NYVET48TFW]

Love your videos man. Addicted. And learning a lot, in a fun way!

[@AZExpert]

Glad you like them!

[@PeterPedroA.Cintron-421Pc]

Hello my friend Cool radio 📻 I just ordered a CD DVR double DIN for my Dodge ram 🐏 hemi I'm glad I watched your video thank you for the knowledge of those clips I'm going to be getting some

[@scarter176]

Fantastic install ! Good radio

[@AZExpert]

Thanks!

[@TimothyMichaels]

From Motown to Mozart, you are officially the hippest guy in town. 😁 Nice upgrade

[@johns4452]

Just ordered one for my 08 Tiffin. Has the dreaded 1.5 din opening so this is the best thing I could find, using your video as a huge help. My Tiffin has that large ‘brow’ on dash right above radio opening so this floating display with the up and down adjustments hopefully clears the top of dash brow.

[@EfficientRVer]

Another job well done, another item added to my "save for later" cart. Not sure I'll ever have a vehicle where the head unit and car features aren't too intertwined to replace the stock unit. But I'll take a peek to see if the little storage compartment under it is mounted in a DIN opening behind the scenes. Just to be able to switch between two cameras while driving would be nice, as my car only puts the backup camera on screen when in Reverse. Also having phone GPS on a separate big screen from the car's GPS would be cool, depending upon what nav apps it supports. I love using the car screen for navigation, but it's terrible at blocking functionality when going even 1mph, and its voice input does some stuff but not other stuff.

[@jeffsteele1295]

Great video lots of information thanks AZ . I will be putting side view cameras on my radio soon I hope lol . I order a device that would allow me to switch cameras when putting on my turn signals . Could say more but I have to get to installing it so will figure the rest our later.

[@clarencewiles963]

Looking like a good choice 👍

[@AZExpert]

I think so too!

[@KevinCoop1]

Our Jayco came with a Garmin Radio. I like it other than the screen is too small. The screen head is removable and works like a tablet. Handy when setting the Navigation for the next days travel. It’s about time the Beaver got some exercise! I bought the same cup holder. Still have to mount it. Thanks for your video! Happy Easter! Kevin

[@gereshomeE]

You REALLY know what you're doing! Well done! ☺ 🔴

[@AZExpert]

Thank you! 😊

[@gereshomeE]

@@AZExpert I mean it; you inspire all of us who watch you and learn! 🔷 Please excuse my "an" RV grammar:- I am an "imperfect" Lingüist! ☺

[@Chris_In_Texas]

7:00 Looks like a Beaver has been back there chewing on wires, and had to connect them all together again! OMG, my OCD radar is going off on that wiring nest back there. 🤪👍

[@Cotton088]

On stranded wire, I like to crimp on wire ferrules before using Wago connectors. Great video

[@ericbuckner8182]

Just binged out in the dash upgrades. That was fun. Im looking at a 2003 thunder. I might be joining the thunder club. James is a 2003 not as built as well as the 2000 -2002 .

[@deanh7190]

Nice dash. Note: No trees were harmed in the making of this Beaver video.

[@walescan2514]

Great job

[@barzalou]

Appreciated this video. Thanks.

[@AZExpert]

Glad it was helpful!

[@rdrose61]

Thanks... love wagos. Have an assortment in my travels parts supplies along with sharkbite fittings for plumbing emergencies. Glad the sliding shelf organizer is working out for you. Someday if you would like it to match the quality of "the worlds best RV" it would be fairly easy to build a replacement matching sliding wood organizer with drink holders. I find it very easy to match the color of our cherry woodwork using Rubio Monocoat oil. No hassle with staining and clearcoating.

[@AZExpert]

Great idea!

[@jmtckr]

lol, music is comforting to the beast...safe travels. Reminder, don't run your generator while in Comifornia.

[@COMtnPilot]

Great vid, Sir! Somebody needs a camera/phone tripod! Or, a headband phone/camera mount so you have hands free! BTW, I love the new radio! Gonna pick one up and install it in my Tiffin Allegro. 😎

[@Gopher7]

Always enjoy your content James! Only upgrade you need now is an iPhone 😊

[@vincetoscano7018]

Thanks James,

[@fernwehric-lifeinabus]

Nice!

[@DnD_Adventures6966]

Good to know! Thanks.

[@hollandbuzzard1039]

I have a GPS unit that I like to run, and it has a gloss reflection problem also. I cut a piece of window tint to cover the screen and it works great. Does not impede the use of the touch screen.

[@Bruce-ub8dv]

I used the alt inputs on my radio to feed sound from the TV to the stereo. My TV is inset a little into the dash overhead and the speakers are a little obscured. Running the sound to the stereo works out great so no mater where I'm sitting in the RV I can hear the TV now.

[@AZExpert]

That's a great idea too

[@cullenmiller8170]

Nice video and upgrade. I wish my setup was that easy to switch over. Seems like on the Marquis they went all out. I have the Alpine with the flip up screen on the left side of dash. The single din frame is under the wood trim of the dash. 🤦‍♂️ The Alpine radio has a second unit behind the wall in the entry and it is wired into the Bose whole house system and uses all the speakers and subwoofer.

[@WatzTX]

Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay usb adapters are available and seem to work pretty well. Might be an option for you to try out so you don’t have to keep plugging and unplugging your phone all the time. It’ll also let you send your nav/gps app (like Waze) to the new SSL head unit.

[@paulspencer2081]

Great video can’t wait for the always on battery issue with radio. BTW it appears you only have a lap belt? I have 95 Monaco Dynasty with lap belt and wondering if possible to install 3pt shoulder harness belt?

[@Technocrat.]

They not 200 bucks any more, now more like 350 and more, your video boosted sales and demand lol.

[@rujeepn]

Great video James! I have been looking for an alternative to the Kenwood in my rig, that doesn't cost $600-$800. Now, if I could just get to AZ so you can install it for me! 😉 My TV is also plugged into the Kenwood for surround sound, on the rare occasion I actually watch TV, so it looked like I could use one of the connections on the back? Anyways, hope you enjoyed your trip to Vail. Camped there once back in 2010, but too many kids! LoL Now, I think you need to get one of those stick on suction cup phone mounts to mount your phone to your forehead. That would make some great 2 handed videos! 😂😂 You know im just kidding!

[@goththicus]

We swap out our radio to a Sony that supported all 3 cameras - the old one was a Rand McNally navigation system. For our tow car, a Smart 2011 we replaced it with a Boss BVCPA9700A. It took us a while to find a touch screen (Android/CarPlay) compatible and instructions since the Smart car did not have any info for the connection.

[@timmysrvlife]

Once started using WAGO, you just can’t go back. It is so convenient. I think they are mainly for household AC, but DC will be fine too (within the current limit).

[@kennethgrainger1112]

For this, I'd go with the 221-2401 (inline two connector). They are more in keeping with the barrel connectors what were being used before.

[@lynbarnel]

Nicely done! Wondering what you've decided to do to the interior ceiling. You mentioned it a while back and I have an issue with mine sagging. Thinking of strapping it with some pre-finished molding or something. Thoughts? Thanks James!

[@brentjohnston1997]

Thanks so much for your informative videos. Can you recommend how to wire this unit for use as a camera for my toad?

[@anthonybannister5909]

Very cool - love your videos ! What specific camera for the back do u use ?

[@scottbeaver9028]

If your Garmin has an output you can add it to one of your inputs as well.

[@richardterry1620]

I was wondering if that new unit will work with my Aladdin system on my 04 Monaco, any information would be greatly appreciated!!! Thanks for your videos, they are super helpful and helped me out tons with upgrades, repairs and maintenance knowledge I had no clue to stay on top of owning a motorhome.

[@AZExpert]

Yes the Aladdin video input would connect to this screen with the same RCA video connection

[@rvingonthego]

Hope you do the cameras upgrade

[@johnpepper182]

To take care of the gloss you can buy a screen protector that will correct the reflections, hopefully they make one for that brand.

[@lukewaelderfuninthesun8310]

I watched the video where you did and inspection on a tiffin Allegro red I love it I have the same one Triple Vision mirror and black up camera can't see very well with it the dealer putting new cameras in mirrors please help any upgrades to the screen using the same cameras

[@Desertvanlife]

I'm sure you know about Robodi & sons in Phoenix......very well know in the stereo installation field for audio and alarm products...... watch out for HARRY lol.....30 plus years they been open for business I believe.........fyi☝️👋

[@goinsomewheretogether]

Thanks James for this video. Our MH has a Jensen radio and the screen is very hard to see when the sunlight is on it. How did this unit do as far as sunlight is concerned? The Jensen has a setting to allow our rear camera to be on all the time, but when the sun shines on the screen it is hard to make out our toad. Also, is the screen on this model easy to remove if you want to keep prying eyes from seeing it? Thanks.

[@justenof]

Thank you for another great video. I was wondering if you could answer a technical questions about my Rv?? How could I contact you? If you were interested

[@racingfortheson]

Beaver Logo looks like a lady bent over 😂

[@discerningmind]

The Wago connectors are good. Scotch connectors bother me too. I never trust Scotch connectors because I've seen too many failures with them in used cars that I've bought. Scotch connectors could have been much better if they didn't use aluminum inside. Copper or stainless steel would have been much more reliable. Instead of using any connectors at all, I've found reliable connections can be made by stripping the wire ends, twist them together by hand and then use a pliers for a final twist, and seal it up with thick wall heat-shrink tubing. As long as you shrank the ends of the tubing enough to seal out the atmosphere, this method makes for a connection lasting so long that I've never seen one fail. If you haven't used heat shrink tubing before, cut it about three times longer than you think you need, and be sure to slide the heat shrink tube onto one of the wires before twisting them together. After twisting the wires, slide the heat shrink tube over the connection and hold the assembly level as in a straight line, then using a cigarette lighter heat the shrink tubing quickly enough to not burn a hole in it. Heat the bottom side and then turn the assembly to heat the other side from the bottom. Then check the ends of the heat shrink tubing and make sure it made a good seal around the wire. If not, hit ends with the lighter again.

[@loydalexander154]

Hea James what is the best way to take care of my rubber roof camper trailer to make it last and look good. I really don't want to have to bring it all the way to AZ. For you to do yet another roof job. 😅 thanks in advance Loyd

[@terryayers7549]

I installed my gps antenna on the top of my windshield and it works grt.

[@YallAintRight]

Can you do a follow up on replacing your speakers, please? I need to replace mine and would love your insight.

[@thomasguthrie5938]

This is a good idea. I have an 03 Horizon and the stock radio has given up the ghost. Looking to replace the radio, but its location on the dash is not in the line of sight. My old radio is a double din job. What I'd really like to do is integrate the new radio with a separate dash screen. James, do you have any videos on adding a brake controller to a d.p. with air brakes? Cheers

[@DefaultUser1790]

James, are people actually able to contact you for RV inspections? I’d assume you’re backlogged for a long time, but just kinda curious. We’re in the process of buying an RV in Mesa, AZ and are sorta lost in regards to getting it looked over. Love your videos!

[@jameswallace26]

What about installing a matte screen protector film on it to reduce the glare? Just a thought, possibly a bad one.

[@hiflyer1825]

A screen protector will cut down on glare and not interfere with touch commands. happy sailing.....

[@elcaminomant]

James, are you a wino? That's really the only reason to visit Temecula 🤣

[@WilliamLaakkonen]

Nice unit. Seems like a good value. Does it do wireless connect for the phone or needs USB wired?

[@AZExpert]

bluetooth works too

[@oliver2833]

nice video ... btw, tell me something about that vac you used at the end of the video ... which one was it????

[@AZExpert]

its the shark cordless I picked up at home depot

[@mikehallgrimson340]

Great video. I have been doing all of your modifications on my 2003 Patriot. I installed the Boss in mine. I was able to get all my Silverleaf screens on the head unit. Can yours do that?

[@AZExpert]

Thats one of the plans

[@Greenislerustproofing]

hey az expert, i have had the boss version of that headunit for about a year and a half. one quirk i have had, and the solve i wanted to pass on, sometimes when connecting to carplay the volume gets very loud upon plugging the phone in. there is a paper clip reset hole on the bottom edge, right side that does a factory reset and resolves the volume issue for a few months. i have successfully navigated all over the country with apple/google maps through that screen without issue. i would vote you could safely banish your separate gps to a storage location for backup. 2 questions for you: does the screen mirroring work on your model? it does not work with my iphone. when you are viewing a map through navigation on android auto/car play, can you move the map by sliding a finger around, or do you have to open the directional buttons and move it manually? mine is the ladder, but i also have another touch screen by alpine that does allow the one finger sliding. thanks!

[@johnnorton6085]

Can you put additional speakers in the doors? I used a 5" hole saw.

[@TinyHouseHomestead]

Yeah, ... does it have AM/FM?! 😱😝😁🤪👍👍🇺🇲

[@AZExpert]

Yes

[@postersm7141]

It’s amazing how miss leading wattage is even on home gear. There’s no way in hell that - head unit can put out anywhere near 240 W. At maximum they can put out about 20 W RMS per channel. 5:36 if you look at the heat sink on the back of that Kenwood, that one probably is putting out close to 20 W per channel RMS. It definitely has a nicer heat sink on its amplifier than the new one.

[@janebray9392]

LUXURY RV AZ STYLE

[@Blakehx]

I may have to check it out… our Class C Coachmen has the crappy Ford dash with that useless pop out and tilt up screen! If you find a good anti-glare screen protector please let me know! Thanks

[@AZExpert]

I'm sure there is one available on amazon

[@gerryireland3998]

im looking to replace the etc screen and back up Monitor any advice

[@Stepdaddy8969]

👍🏽

[@mkleifgen1]

Would you mind sharing which dash cam you are using in this video? I've been researching some for my DP and would appreciate your thoughts. Thanks!

[@AZExpert]

This one failed on this trip so I wouldnt recommend. But @linustechtips did a review of most dash cams to discover that they were all almost identical

[@margieemack7211]

Non glare screen protector would be a good resolution

[@michelp583]

It has been one month since you have install this SSL radio. Could you please give us an update as I am considering this unit as well. I am interesting to see how the Android Auto works ( or not) for maps

[@AZExpert]

it's been flawless and I'm planning another upgrade using it.

[@wayneroyal3137]

Do you know if the camera inputs are standard? I want to replace our stereo and we have the standard rear camera. That stereo is pretty good for a “Boss”. I installed one on a golf cart and it worked pretty well

[@AZExpert]

yes standard RCA input on video

[@wayneroyal3137]

@@AZExpert thank you, I don’t like the current one at all, but it appears to be an RV spec because it has a button for “rear camera “. Thank you again. Thoroughly enjoy your videos

[@AZExpert]

@@wayneroyal3137 yes this has the cameras that can be selected while listening or be tripped by a reverse signal too

[@r8edrv4fun65]

Is it possible to adjust the button tone down??

[@scarter176]

Can you connect your phone wireless to this device and use Apple car play ?