Rear view mirror with compass!

[VetteMed]

2024 Edit:


Since I'm getting bombarded with emails now, this thread needs an update.



The source mirrors for the conversion have become very scarce, so I stopped searching for them and stopped doing the conversions *years* ago. As of 4/29/24 I have a couple of adapters remaining, that's all.



__________________________________________________ _______







After many months of trial and error, and lots of bad ebay purchases, I've come up with a plug-and-play option for a rear view mirror with a compass, with the correct display color to match the C4 dash illumination. The mirror also retains the map lights, and the courtesy light function of the map lights when the door opens. I also added an orange LED for the ambient light on the console, just like the stock mirror. Mirror also has electrochromic auto-dimming.

I have also developed a plug-and-play harness, to adapt the mirror right into the stock C4 wiring, without the end user needing to cut a single wire.

http://i680.photobucket.com/albums/vv163/agchoset/1991%20ZR-1/IMG_0430.jpg

http://i680.photobucket.com/albums/vv163/agchoset/1991%20ZR-1/IMG_0431.jpg

http://i680.photobucket.com/albums/vv163/agchoset/1991%20ZR-1/IMG_0434.jpg

http://i680.photobucket.com/albums/vv163/agchoset/1991%20ZR-1/IMG_0439.jpg

http://i680.photobucket.com/albums/vv163/agchoset/IMG_0545.jpg

And here's the excellent adapters that Carter machined up for me! Really nice workmanship on these pieces!

http://i680.photobucket.com/albums/vv163/agchoset/C4%20compass%20mirror/MVC-019S.jpg


I also can now make the same mirror with an outside temperature readout as well, great for the guys with manual AC without the temperature display in the dash! Pricing not finalized for this option yet, but I expect it to come in around $100 more than the compass-only mirror.

-Andrew

[GOLDCYLON]

Im in how do I buy one Andrew? Great idea

[VetteMed]

As for the mounting issue, I'm working on that too. Carter is looking over some adapters I've come up with, to see if we can produce a small batch at a reasonable cost per unit. This would allow mounting to the stock location on the windshield header, without having to glue a button to the windshield.

Daryll, PM sent.

[GOLDCYLON]

As for the mounting issue, I'm working on that too. Carter is looking over some adapters I've come up with, to see if we can produce a small batch at a reasonable cost per unit. This would allow mounting to the stock location on the windshield header, without having to glue a button to the windshield.

Daryll, PM sent.

Awesome:cheers:

[GOLDCYLON]

After many months of trial and error, and lots of bad ebay purchases, I've come up with a plug-and-play option for a rear view mirror with a compass, with the correct display color to match the C4 dash illumination. The mirror also retains the map lights, and the courtesy light function of the map lights when the door opens. I also added an orange LED for the ambient light on the console, just like the stock mirror. I have also developed a plug-and-play harness, to adapt the mirror right into the stock C4 wiring, without the end user needing to cut a single wire.

http://i680.photobucket.com/albums/vv163/agchoset/1991%20ZR-1/IMG_0430.jpg

http://i680.photobucket.com/albums/vv163/agchoset/1991%20ZR-1/IMG_0431.jpg

http://i680.photobucket.com/albums/vv163/agchoset/1991%20ZR-1/IMG_0434.jpg

http://i680.photobucket.com/albums/vv163/agchoset/1991%20ZR-1/IMG_0439.jpg

-Andrew



I assume the power button is the on off feature for the compass? Obviously the north arrow bottom is for adjusting.

[-=Jeff=-]

COOL.. I would like one like that but with the temperature (remember I have a C60 car)

[VetteMed]

COOL.. I would like one like that but with the temperature (remember I have a C60 car)

Hmm, I forgot about you C60 guys. Let me see what I can find, I might be able to find an existing mirror to make that work too. The temp sensor wiring would have to be run separately, since the stock wiring obviously doesn't provide for that.

Andrew

[VetteMed]

Jeff, after a cursory search, far as I can tell so far, the options for including temp with compass will require losing the map lights / courtesy lights function, and may also require having nonfunctional OnStar buttons on the mirror.

There is an option that has map lights, and a display for compass/temp below the mirror, like this one:

http://www.cipausa.com/images/interiorMirrors/36500_v1_20111021.gif

It's a bit pricey, but it may be the only way to get all the functionality.

Mirrors with comp/temp are easy to find, if you don't care about the map lights. I could modify one of those for you (change display color+add ambient LED) if you wanted.

[Kevin]

sorry you lost me at auto dimming. I hate that

[VetteMed]

sorry you lost me at auto dimming. I hate that

There is a button to turn that off, you know :cheers:

[GOLDCYLON]

sorry you lost me at auto dimming. I hate that


I love that feature!

[Kevin]

I love that feature!

i find it incredibly annoying

[GOLDCYLON]

i find it incredibly annoying


I find environmentalists more annoying lol. Got it but as Andrew states just turn it off

[Kevin]

I find environmentalists more annoying lol. Got it but as Andrew states just turn it off

but then you can't dim it when you want to. i'll take an old fashioned toggle

[-=Jeff=-]

what models are you looking at?

I seem to recall the 1999ish Chrysler Sebring had the temp with maps lights.. but I could be wrong

[VetteMed]

The Sebrings had compass with map lights, but I didn't think they had temp too.

the mirrors I'm using are from the Chevy HHR.

[Blue Flame Restorations]

I like it and would be interested in a plug & play system with the Carter mount, when you have them readily available.

[White Bullet]

This looks awsome. I am very intrested. Let me know when you have a final cost. :handshak:

[VetteMed]

This looks awsome. I am very intrested. Let me know when you have a final cost. :handshak:

Thanks! :cheers:

Without the adapter to mount the unit to the windshield header (meaning you need to mount it to the windshield itself, or fab up your own mounting adapter), the price will be $149. That includes free shipping, and of course the plug&play harness.

I am not sure when my adapters will be ready, or even how much they will cost. Carter is working on it and as soon as I know anything I'll update this thread with the cost of the mounting adapter.

[GOLDCYLON]

Thanks! :cheers:

Without the adapter to mount the unit to the windshield header (meaning you need to mount it to the windshield itself, or fab up your own mounting adapter), the price will be $149. That includes free shipping, and of course the plug&play harness.

I am not sure when my adapters will be ready, or even how much they will cost. Carter is working on it and as soon as I know anything I'll update this thread with the cost of the mounting adapter.

I want one with the adapter. Sold

[ghlkal]

Excellent. Thanks for working on this Andrew. I'm in.

Gary

[-=Jeff=-]

Yeah I am interested in one or at least the Carter mount..

[captcorvette]

Andrew you can add me to the list. Perhaps two? Have one c-4 with a dodgy rear mirror.

[Coupe89]

I'm curious on what the adapter looks like.

I've done this mod on my 89 (Dimming, Compass and Homelink). But glue a button to the windshield.

Also the three wires on the rear view mirror:
(hot - all the time)
(hot - when the door is opened)
(ground)
I ran a wire to a ignition switch source. So my mirror will turn off by itself.

I'm guess the compass has a switch?
I like the orange LEDs

[VetteMed]

I'm curious on what the adapter looks like.

I've done this mod on my 89 (Dimming, Compass and Homelink). But glue a button to the windshield.

Also the three wires on the rear view mirror:
(hot - all the time)
(hot - when the door is opened)
(ground)
I ran a wire to a ignition switch source. So my mirror will turn off by itself.

I'm guess the compass has a switch?
I like the orange LEDs

The later C4 courtesy lights (door open) are triggered by a switched ground, not a switched power. 5 wire harness - constant power, switched power, ground, switched ground, dash illumination.

There's a switch on the front of the mirror housing (the right switch with the "N" and an arrow). This toggles the compass display on and off. the other button toggles the auto dim on and off.

[carter200]

OK, guys I appologize for taking so long. Was not aware there was this thread going on and have been busy on other peoples stuff with the occasional look at Andrews idea and ponder.
Well, for all you chomping at the bit I have officially started on the adapter today and have it disected, programmed and the test one half way finished. Hope to be done tomorrow if doo doo does not happen.
Hang in there just a wee bit longer it'll be worth it ;)

[VetteMed]

OK folks, after discussing production costs with Carter, and in light of the apparent scarcity of the source mirror (I've had a lot of trouble getting a hold of very many at a reasonable cost), I've got to price the mirror and adapter combination at $199, which will include USPS priority mail shipping in the lower 48.

I am going to open up pre-orders at this point. Paypal can be sent to agchoset@gmail.com, and as soon as the adapters are finished and sent to me, mirrors will start to ship. For a $5 discount, you can send a check or money order, PM me for mailing address.

[GOLDCYLON]

First to buy and first to pay ;) :cheers:

PAYPAL GIFT INCOMING

[ghlkal]

Next in line ...

payment sent

Thanks to Andrew and Carter for making this possible :cheers:

[VetteMed]

And here's the excellent adapters that Carter machined up for me! Really nice workmanship on these pieces!

http://i680.photobucket.com/albums/vv163/agchoset/C4%20compass%20mirror/MVC-019S.jpg

http://i680.photobucket.com/albums/vv163/agchoset/C4%20compass%20mirror/MVC-020S.jpg

http://i680.photobucket.com/albums/vv163/agchoset/C4%20compass%20mirror/MVC-021S.jpg

Anyone who pre-ordered, your kit will be shipping within a few days.

Thanks!

[Blue Flame Restorations]

Andrew, I want the whole kit with bracket.

I'll paypal you.

Brett!

[ghlkal]

Just got my mirror kit!

http://i517.photobucket.com/albums/u331/NaturalCowgirl/ZR-1/Zmirror2769.jpg

Thanks Andrew :handshak:

[HAWAIIZR-1]

Andrew,

Thanks for making a cool option available for our cars. I needed a replacement mirror glass so this is even better. Payment sent.

Craig

[dredgeguy]

Is it possible to have a button for the garage door opener?

[VetteMed]

Is it possible to have a button for the garage door opener?

I can do a mirror for you that has built-in homelink (3 buttons for garage doors / gates), orange compass display, and auto dim, but it won't have map lights/courtesy lights. I can install an orange LED for ambient illumination of the console. Unfortunately once we start adding options we've got to take something out - there's not any easy way to jam all that stuff into a mirror housing.

PM me if interested.

Andrew

[GOLDCYLON]

I love this mod!!!!! Been running mine for a couple of weeks now. Did my Valentine V1 Hidden Display Mod at the same time. Thanks Andrew for doing this!!!! Thanks to Carter for making the adapter bracket as well. Love that Amber Compass and Auto Dim!!!!! GC

[GOLDCYLON]

Is it possible to have a button for the garage door opener?


If you dont want to lose the lights as Andrew suggests because the white LED lights are really helpful. I suggest getting the Mirror as Andrew currently sells it and buying the Homelink 3 botton Sunvisor that is avialable on Ebay. I did that as well!!! So you can have the best of both worlds.

[BigJohn]

What is an Ebay???:confused:

[BigJohn]

I like the garage door opener on the sunviser idea!!!
:cheers:

[GOLDCYLON]

What is an Ebay???:confused:


http://www.ebay.com/itm/1986-96-c4-corvette-drivers-side-sun-visor-with-homelink-/400184794400?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item5d2cdf5d20&vxp=mtr

[BigJohn]

Cool!!!
Thank you!
:cheers:

[Corbusa]

Hey Med ! will you guys have a few on the shelf?? I'm slowly making a few payments on a few other parts and need to get them squared away before getting any others BUT, I for sure want one and I'll know more of what I can do in 2-3 weeks..

[VetteMed]

Hey Med ! will you guys have a few on the shelf?? I'm slowly making a few payments on a few other parts and need to get them squared away before getting any others BUT, I for sure want one and I'll know more of what I can do in 2-3 weeks..

I always have at least "some" of the parts on hand, but sometimes it can take a week or two to restock on individual components. Right now I'm waiting on some wiring harness terminals and such, and I just sold the last mounting adapter so I'll need to have Carter run another batch.

Andrew

[carter200]

Got your PM and will do the adapters after I finish the front and rear coil over brackets. I'm finishing the fronts this week (tomorrow) and will finish the rears next week. FYI...;)

[dredgeguy]

very cool and thanks. will need to finish a few other projects first but these are now in the mill!

[GOLDCYLON]

I can not beleive these are not flying off the shelf check out Vedmeds video!!!


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k6VtOT9D7tA

[-=Jeff=-]

I really want atleast the mount.. but my extra $$ is wrapped up in 2 projects on the car right now

[HAWAIIZR-1]

Here is a bump; thanks Andrew, its awesome! I just installed it and love it. I can't wait to try it out driving around and the compass even picked up direction from the garage of this concrete/marble house.

Craig

[VetteMed]

Here is a bump; thanks Andrew, its awesome! I just installed it and love it. I can't wait to try it out driving around and the compass even picked up direction from the garage of this concrete/marble house.

Craig

Glad to hear it, Craig! :handshak: Thanks!

[GOLDCYLON]

Here is a bump; thanks Andrew, its awesome! I just installed it and love it. I can't wait to try it out driving around and the compass even picked up direction from the garage of this concrete/marble house.

Craig


Welcome to Andrews Mirror club

[HAWAIIZR-1]

Hey folks,

Just another plug for Andrew's Compass Mirror deal. :cheers: This thing is awesome and I had a chance to driving around it with a few days ago and then evening too. The compass with be of much more use to me when I leave Japan, but the auto dimming, courtesy light and map lights are awesome and such a huge upgrade over the stock mirror in my opinion. The Carter adapter bracket works very well the install is solid and so easy; everything works so well like it was meant to. I love the orange courtesy and the map lights came in really handy (I won't mention for what) and I love how the buttons work on it. Anyway, just want to say I love this mod and can see much better for some reason out the back too. Maybe it is slightly larger or just brand new glass over 20 year old mirror, but it rocks and I highly recommend it. :dancing

[VetteMed]

Figured I'd bump this thread in case anyone new hasn't seen it.

I also can now make the same mirror with an outside temperature readout as well, great for the guys with manual AC without the temperature display in the dash!

[GOLDCYLON]

Love this mod. Just saying

[VetteMed]

Thanks Daryll!

[-=Jeff=-]

VetteMed,

is it the Same mirror but just the temp in the upper corner?

Same cost?

[VetteMed]

Jeff,
Unfortunately the process to assemble this mirror is much more difficult (lots more wiring) and expensive ( I have to use 2 mirrors to make 1 mirror, sacrificing one of them for parts).

I am trying to get the temp/compass mirror kit out the door for $100 more than the standard compass-only unit. That will include the temperature sensor for up near the radiator shroud, and the wiring connector for the sensor. That would mean a total cost of $299 plus $15 for shipping.

it's got a dual display, compass on top, temperature under it, like this:

http://imageshack.com/a/img198/8072/9tvq.jpg

[VetteMed]

Any future orders will ship with an improved mounting screw, utilizing a lockwasher and dry-lock threadlocking compound. Any current users having issues with their mounting screw loosening, can receive an updated screw free, just PM me with your address.

Also, the dual-display temperature / compass mirror is a "go". I've got one fully operational mounted in my Trans Am. Pricing will be $299 plus shipping for the dual-display mirror, which includes the temperature sensor and connector plug.

[ghlkal]

Any current users having issues with their mounting screw loosening, can receive an updated screw free, just PM me with your address.



Thanks Andrew. PM sent.

[Peter Moroni]

Hi,how much just for the adaptor ?

[VetteMed]

The adapter alone is $40 including shipping.

[Flyman 27]

Are these still available?

[GOLDCYLON]

Are these still available?

Email Andrew directly at agchoset@gmail.com. He might be able to hook you up. GC

[anton28]

Brining this old thread back to life. Are these still available?

[HAWAIIZR-1]

Brining this old thread back to life. Are these still available?

As GC stated in the thread above, email Andrew directly and see if he will still do one. I am glad I have one and it is still awesome today. Best wishes! 🤙🏼

[anton28]

Thank you!

[HAWAIIZR-1]

Thank you!

You?re welcome! 🤙🏼

[anton28]

I was able to order one from Andrew. He has one more in case anyone needs one.

[HAWAIIZR-1]

I was able to order one from Andrew. He has one more in case anyone needs one.

Wow, congrats! That is awesome. You are the kind of dead threads?.lol!

[VetteMed]

Guys, I've gotten a bunch of emails in the last 24 hours about this stuff.

I haven't made a mirror in years - the source mirror became too hard to find and too expensive as a result.

I have a couple of adapters left, that's all. If those run out I'll see how much it'll be to CNC a new batch but no promises.

[HAWAIIZR-1]

Guys, I've gotten a bunch of emails in the last 24 hours about this stuff.

I haven't made a mirror in years - the source mirror became too hard to find and too expensive as a result.

I have a couple of adapters left, that's all. If those run out I'll see how much it'll be to CNC a new batch but no promises.

I?ll summon Carter to this post in case you need to have more adapters made up. Thanks!