superwarp1

Figure Crutchfield wouldn't have their act straight by now. I'll contact them and change my order.

FDHog

Hey Mark,
If I install DNX990HD and Maestro, with all the correct harnesses, does it allow me to bypass the factory amp and still maintain sync?
Will you eventually have it configured to work with MyFord Touch Systems?

superwarp1

Just got my conformation email with attached instructions and it shows the head end unit with two antenna inputs.

12V guy to you have a contact to tell them they are wrong when it comes to that cable and the Sat issue?

F150guy13

I had the same issue but went thru with the order anyways. Emailed Crutchfield and they refunded me the 14.99 no questions asked.

F150guy13

Just want to give a shout out to 12V Guy aka Mark. I had a couple of questions during my install and he promptly answered them. Thanks Mark!

superwarp1

They didn't ask for it back? Good to know.

12V Guy

Yes, you can bypass your factory amplifier. When you flash the Maestro online, simply uncheck the box next to factory amplifier and we will not turn on the amp or interface with it digitially (Sony amps).

My Ford Touch is a completely different beast with WiFi, Video and more. We will look at it at some point but in the short term the answer is no. We are more focused on the new model cars with the base radios and standard Sync systems (Edge, Explorer, 13 F150, Fusion, Focus, etc.). These are a new platform of Sync, but are very possible to upgrade to aftermarket Nav.

Best,

12V Guy

12V Guy

I will pass this along to them. To be fair, it's quite a complicated product and the sales people have to know tons of items and details. We were recently there and trained all the staff and are working to build the detailed fit information into their systems. In the end, they are great to work with and I am sorry you got the incorrect info.

For those who want to know what works and what is needed, you can go to our website and do a complete query.

Start here: www.maestro.idatalink.com

1. Input your vehicle
2. Choose your steering wheel - this will tell website if you have Sync or not
3. Pick your radio - if you pick anything but Kenwood, you will see the basic radio replacement features including steering wheel controls. If you pick a Kenwood that supports serial connection then you will be asked if you plan to connect with iDatalink serial cable or wired remote input. Pick iDatalink Serial Cable or you will get the same basic features you get with other radios.

You will now see the detailed results. If you picked a 2012 DNX model (DNX6990HD for example), the website will suggest the T-harness and tell you the SXI adapter harness is required.

If you picked a 2013 DNX model (ones with 3 numbers - DNN990HD, DNX890HD, DNN770HD, DNX690HD, or DNX570) the website will show you the features and only suggest the T-Harness but NOT the SXI adapter.

If your factory sat tuner can be retained it will tell you in the features. If Satellite Radio is not shown in features, it comes out with radio. You can add back Satellite radio with the SXV200 tuner IF you use a 2013 Kenwood model that does not require the SXI adapter harness.

Sorry for lengthy post but hoping website can help explain some things.

For an example where sat tuner is retained, search 2010 Ford Edge. For example where it is not retained, search 2011 Ford F150.

Best,

superwarp1

I wrote them a letter yesterday about the screw ups and received back a huge apology and that Mark(Idatalink) was correct. Received a refund for the cable even though I have not received it yet(no need to return). Confirmed I can use the factory sat antenna for the Sirius tuner which I purchase a scratch and dent special.

Everything arrives tomorrow and I hope to get it all installed over the weekend.

Future plans are to add a back up camara, a sub and monitors for the kids in the back. Great thread, great questions and thanks to Mark great answers.

FDHog

I have a 2013. With factory Nav and Sony amp. From what I understand, you're saying that you are working on a system that will let me can the factory setup in favor of a Kenwood DNX990HD, or is that coming later?
Thanks