e30 to e36 head unit adapter - Where can I find this?!

[Spyke]

I have an 87 325e coupe (non-premium, but has a fader switch)

I have been reading all the threads on e30 stereo wiring and pretty much all of them tell you to hack into the stock wiring and just splice into the deck harness...

Not really what I'm used to doing on my cars, I am a firm believer in making everything clean and reversible. Not to mention I don't want to be stuck with one head unit for the rest of my life (or risk continually shortening wiring each time I change units). I don't see either option as acceptable.

I stumbled across photos of what looks like a direct fit adapter, using an OEM e36 radio harness connector.









Anyone know where I can find one pre-done? If not I think I will just take a crack at make one.

Thanks in advance!


Ended up doing this:

http://www.r3vlimited.com/board/showpost.php?p=3735497&postcount=314

[Chuzo]

it could be one of these:

http://bmwfans.info/parts/catalog/E30/Cabrio/Europe/325i-M20/LHD/M/1993/january/browse/audio_navigation_electronic_systems/adapter_lead/

[bmw325csi]

They do t make a direct adapter. You would have to splice considering the e30 doesn't have a female end on the radio. Just exposed wires

[95///M3]

I have one that I used on an 89 325is with premium sound to E36 square block similar to the one posted. $45 takes it.

Jim H.

[Spyke]

it could be one of these:
http://bmwfans.info/parts/catalog/E3.../adapter_lead/

Looks like that might be it, now the question is which one

[Spyke]

They do t make a direct adapter. You would have to splice considering the e30 doesn't have a female end on the radio. Just exposed wires

That's exactly why I want to add a permanent female end.

[Spyke]

I have one that I used on an 89 325is with premium sound to E36 square block similar to the one posted. $45 takes it.

Jim H.

Happen to have a photo of that Jim? I'd like so see what the e30 side of it looks like.

[StereoInstaller1]

I have an 87 325e coupe (non-premium, but has a fader switch)

I have been reading all the threads on e30 stereo wiring and pretty much all of them tell you to hack into the stock wiring and just splice into the deck harness...

Not really what I'm used to doing on my cars, I am a firm believer in making everything clean and reversible. Not to mention I don't want to be stuck with one head unit for the rest of my life (or risk continually shortening wiring each time I change units). I don't see either option as acceptable.

I stumbled across photos of what looks like a direct fit adapter, using an OEM e36 radio harness connector.




Anyone know where I can find one pre-done? If not I think I will just take a crack at make one.

Thanks in advance!

The one you posted should work. If it isn't absolutely correct, it is close, for sure. If you want to try making your own, chase down a very late model car. They often had the fader wiring, but used a 4 channel output from the deck and thus had that female fader plug you will need. The speaker connections can be had from an '80s Mercedes, they used them also.

The 71-8590 harness will plug into your E36 radio. You will also need a 40-VW20 to adapt your Motorola end to "Euro". If you are polanning on adding a "Dice" or other aux input adapter, you will want to source a factory radio plug, as the aftermarket adapter lacks a necessary wire.

The part I don't get is why. Sure seems a whole buttload of hassle to not lose 1/4" of wire every few years, but its your car and if that is important to you, I will try and help....even if I think its silly!

Good luck and let me know if I can help.

Luke