OG mk1 golf stereo - how to modify for aux input

[ronnie85]

Hi guys,

Heard some people on here are doing this, I don't want to ruin my retro brown dash with a modern stereo but want to connect my iPod etc etc.

Wondering how this is done? I've heard someone on here converts and sells them? Would be keen to get mine converted!

Any help would be great. Thanks!

[Battles]

Depends on the exact make and model of ye olde stereo I think.
Mine had a separate amp IC for the tape deck so it was all a bit easier. There were effectively two different devices - the radio and the tape deck - and the amps were switched by an internal switch operated when you pushed a tape in the slot.

The internal switch (behind the door where you would push the tape in) has been re-routed out to the dash in a completely sketchy looking, non-OEM switch and I just had to put a 3.5mm TRS type female connector in place of the tape input.

You'll need a tiny soldering iron tip and a pin-out of the ICs in the stereo. If there are any blank switches on the dash, you could modify an OEM switch to select between the two inputs. That's what I should have done.
Also, I should have routed the 3.5mm jack for the iPod to a better spot, probably under the dash at the driver's side. I presented it in the cubby hole between the front seats and it's not convenient for either driver or passenger to operate. Think about power, too.

This would be a great place to put some pictures but I'm at work and they frown on having access to photo hosting sites.
I'll try and remember to edit this later with a couple of pics.