Is there an ideal location to hide/install a Valentine-1 in the GS 430?

 

How about the trunk??

Ok, ok, I'm just kidding But my preference is the Passport 8500 so I couldn't pass on the opportunity.

Some have located detectors in the top center of the windshield next to the rear view mirror. There's a post on how to get to the power from the power going to the home link system. Search the site if you're interested.

I have my 8500 mounted low at the left corner of the windshield. It's direct wired into the fuse box and the wire is wedged between the dash and the A-pillar. Some believe it's not the best location for laser, but IMO it works fine for both laser and radar.

 

mdgold,

I have installed mine (I don't know if everyone would agree it is ideal) using the suction cup mount, just to the left of the rear view mirror. Make sure( for laser purposes) you don't mount it too high, the entire unit should rest below the tinted band across the top of the window. Next, you'll need to go to Radio Shack or some other store that sells the modular phone cable and get a 9-12" cord. Run the cord under the plastic clip behind the mirror, and through to the box where the homelink sits. You can pry off the homelink case be carful not to pry too hard or you'll scratch the casing. Locate either the constant power source (I did this one - I'll eventually change it to the mirror switched power supply) or the switched power supply for the electo dimming mirror) tap into it and place the power converter neatly into the homelink box and close it up.

If I get a chance I'll post some pics, but this week may be tough. Good luck!

 

What's so great about the Valentine-1 I saw an add for it and i'm in the market for a detector. I was for sure gonna go with the 8500 but what's up with the Valentine?

 

Does anyone like purchase the K40 brand any more..? I've enjoyed it(saved me dozens of times) over the years, but it's time for a more powerful unit w/laser... I love the stealth install of the K40.

However is the new K40s good enough to compete, especially for the $700 - $900 price tag?

How does the V1 and the Passport compare to an installed unit?(Are they offered in an installed unit..?)

 

Recent reviews say the K40 has not kept up with the the ka and laser technology.

In my opinion the 2 best are the V1 and the 8500. I lean towards the 8500. I've been using Escort and Passport products as long as I can remember.

Passport has an installed version, but I have no knowledge of it other than a general idea that the installed versions with their lower-mounted antennas don't have the best sensitivity.

Tests I've read recently show the 8500 to be more sensitive to both radar and laser than the V1. I also find the ergonomics of the 8500 better, automute, etc...and it's programming capabilities can't be beat.

One thing the V1 does have is arrows indicating the direction of the radar/laser signal, but I don't find that enough to make me go the V1 route.

Also, the V1 is $399. The 8500 lists for $299 and can be had for less.

Ya pays your money and ya takes your choice...

 

A couple of months ago I posted an informative thread about the the 8500 . It is without a doubt, "The Best Detector On The Market, PERIOD!" My partner has a V-1 and we put them to the test head-to-head and the 8500 came out on top. Oh by the way the testing took place on an isolated road with a cop buddy of ours with k, ka, & laser. And as far as real life experience, let's just say I average considerable speed :eek: So far so good!