Thanks for the reply, that is the way mine is working. When I bought the car it came with a Kenwood stereo with a Garmin GPS built in to it. The problem is that on a bright day or with the top down you can not read the screen for the glare. So now I have 2 GPS in my car so I should always get one to work.

 

I have a RV 770 LMT-S which is 6.95” do you think it would fit? Being that your unit is 6” and you added spacers.
I just got my ‘03 and the gps screen is barely visible and I would like to add a back up camera.
Thank you,
JD

 

Hi Roger, Your installation instructions are great! In fact, I have already purchased the Garmin 65 on Amazon so that I can install it in my SC430 2007. I had a question regarding the black plug, but after re-reading your original post, I understood it better. Thank you for sharing this information.
Mike

 

Great job dude. One question though. I was just on the Garmin website and came across a warning for the new Garmin 76 w 7" screen.
1.To avoid damage due to current surge, plug in the car charger after the automobile is started.
Did you see that warning for the 65 and did you do anything about it like wire it to a constant power source? Thanks.

Paul

 

Double post. Deleted. Thanks.

Paul

 

I connected the Garmin 65 GPS to the car 12v power by just plugging it into the car cigarette lighter socket. Then I turned on the key and the GPS screen came to life. When I turned off the key, I got a message showing a countdown for 15 seconds and then the GPS turned off. So, in regard to a concern about whether or not you have to start the car and then plug in the GPS, I believe the answer is no.

 

The thing I love most about this mod is it keeps the original function, door and tilt mechanism. So, I found a new in box Garmin 76 on OfferUp for $100.00. 7" screen.

That's a too good to be true deal in my opinion but hey. Sometimes we do get lucky and find a deal.

Checked OEM spec and original screen is like 7.05".

I was hoping to get a bezel from ebay or somewhere. But to my surprise, that NAV assembly is considered to be just short of solid gold. I can buy a complete Stereo w the door assembly for $200.00. That NAV assy on ebay is going for wayyy more. I was just surprised considering. Anyway. I dont have a specific time line on completion. Just going to make the plunge. It would be nice to have a replacement assy to modify and eliminate down time with the dash and console opened up again. But, wish in one hand...😁

Paul

 

if possible can i buy a copy of those files you purchased?

my email is ezurita9@gmail.com

i myself removed my gps in my 2002 lexus sc430. I purchased a cheap boss with back up camera just to use gps and bluetooth really trying to figure out how to fit it and the wiring i would need to connect to the new in dash to get it to do those simple tasks.

 

I installed the Garmin 65 GPS (as a replacement to the old Lexus one) about 6 months ago, and I am so happy with this solution. It works great, has lifetime updates via WIFI, and has very accurate maps. I want to thank Roger480 for his detailed instructions and additional help to me via private emails. If anyone is considering this project, I highly recommend it as a great upgrade to your SC430.

 

Hi Roger,
Many thanks for all these information, it's great help. I plan to install a Garmin 76 in my 2003 SC430, but my concern is the satellite signal reception. These automotive GPS are intended for use on the dashboard in direct view of the sky and not under the dashboard which is a shielding to the satellite signals. Does someone try to install an external antenna? Is it possible on these GPS?
If the battery runs down in 6/7 days, does it mean the Garmin never stops and continuously consumes its battery?
Thanks
Olivier

 

Olivier31, my experience with the Garmin installed in my SC430 is that it finds the satellites and is ready to go within 15 seconds. In regards to your worry about the battery, I got my 12v power from the cigar lighter socket inside the center console. That socket is useless inside the console, so I removed the wires from the socket and spliced some new wires to feed the 12v to the Garmin. This power is only turned on when the ignition switch is on, so the Garmin unit shuts itself down when it detects no input power.
Good luck with your install. I love mine.
Mike

 

Hi Mike,
Thanks for your reply even if you contradict what Roger and JCanuck wrote
I have checked and crosschecked, there is no possibility to add an external antenna to this type of GPS.
So I will do this mod as for me this is the best solution, I don't need CarPlay and don't watch video in the SC430
I will come back when done or if I need some help ... I'm sure you will be there to help me
Olivier

 

Hi Mike,
I did change the Multi-Display by a Garmin 76. It works perfectly and as you said it finds the satellite in few seconds and reception level is very good.
I also connected the 12V on the cigar lighter socket from the center console.
Many thanks Mike and Roger for your recommendations and installation instructions that convinced me to make this change and I have no regrets.
Next step is to remove the Navigation ECU and Amplifier from the luggage compartment (even if it works with) and add the wireless back up camera BC50 ordered with the Garmin 76.
Olivier

 

Just so I am clear. The Garmin 76 does fit in the frame or you're hoping it fits in the frame?

 

Yes, the Garmin 76 does fit. Follow Roger480 instructions and you should be able to do it. One thing that I did that I liked better than using strips of foam rubber is I bought a tub of moldable foam on Amazon. It comes out like putty and when it cures, it is just like foam rubber. You can form it around the Garmin more easily and it won't fall out or move around, but you can dig it out if needed with a knife.

Order on Amazon