Our Community is 940,000 Strong. Join Us.


Overhead console


Pages : [1] 2

jaccod
04-11-2005, 07:27 PM
I'm probably in over my head but I purchased an overhead console for my 2003 Venture which was not equiped with one from the factory. I was hoping someone knew the wiring of it. There are 8 wires going to the unit.

Tan
Orange
Gray/Black
Gray
Green/Black
Green
Black
Yellow

I know it needs 12 volts and ground and I believe the temp probe uses 2 wires but which wires and what else i have no clue. I was hoping someone in the forum could clue me in. Thanks alot I appreciate any help.

gls02
04-12-2005, 09:35 AM
This is from my factory service manual for my 2002 Silhouette. I will give you the colors of the wires just like the manual has them.

ORN - Battery Positive Voltage

BRN - Ignition 3 Voltage

GRY - Instrument Panel Lamp Supply Voltage - 1

YEL - DLC (Data Link Communications)

LT GRN/BLK - Ambient Air Temperature Sensor

BLK - Ground

BLK - Ground

The manual only shows 7 wires, not the eight that you have.

Hopes this helps.

jaccod
04-12-2005, 08:45 PM
Thanks this is the only info I have received in two months of searching. I greatly appreciate it. Thank you.

redly1
04-15-2005, 02:27 PM
I was thinking of doing this with my 03 Montana.

Tell me, does the wiring harness exist in the vehicle, or are the 8 wires part of the console assembly?

Keep us posted on how this turns out for you

cdru
04-15-2005, 04:29 PM
A shop manual would be really invaluable for this as it will have exact locations for connections and pinouts.

jaccod
04-16-2005, 09:05 AM
I was thinking of doing this with my 03 Montana.

Tell me, does the wiring harness exist in the vehicle, or are the 8 wires part of the console assembly?

Keep us posted on how this turns out for you

With all the research I have done on this indicates that GM does not put in the extra copper if the specs do not call for them. Boo Hoo....

kdm004
04-22-2005, 07:34 AM
With all the research I have done on this indicates that GM does not put in the extra copper if the specs do not call for them. Boo Hoo....
Hi I mjust did it to my 01 montana and the wires are up in the head liner they are taped down over the drivers head connector and all . now from what i can find out there is an ambiant air senser right behind the front grill its a 8-9 dollar part from Gm and as for the directional part im not sure how to set that the dealer might be a good guy and help you out . But the wires are there just pull the electrical tape back a bit and count the wires and colours and you will find them and they are taped down kinda good might need small hands to pull the tape free good luck Kirk

gls02
04-22-2005, 09:48 AM
Compass Calibration.

Depress and hold down both the MODE and E/M buttons while the DIC is in the Compass/Temperature mode. Ignore the variation zone which shows up after 5 seconds and continue holding the buttons. After ten seconds the DIC will acknowledge that calibration is requested by illuminating the C indicator on the compass display if it's not already lit. To calibrate the compass, drive the vehicle through two circles less than 5 mph in a magnetically clean area. The C indicator will disappear and the DIC will display the proper vehicle display.

Setting the Compass Variation.

Compass variation is the difference between magnetic north and geographic north. In some areas of the country the difference is great enough to cause the compass to give a false reading. If this occures, the compass variance must be set. The zones are numbered 1 through 15. Depress and hold both the MODE and the E/M buttons simultaneously while the DIC is in the Compass/Temperature mode. After 5 seconds, the DIC will display the current variation setting. Release the buttons and adjust to the correct variation number using the E/M button. When the desired variation is reached press the MODE button to accept

If tell me what city and state you are from I will tell you the zone number you need to set. This zone map might be in your owners manual.

redly1
04-22-2005, 01:44 PM
kdm004....
thanks! I noticed the connector up in front of the radiator for the temperature sensor, so I was hoping the rest of the harness was there inside the vehicle.

It makes sense that the wires would be there, as it would probably cost more to manage a variety of vehicle wiring harnesses than it would to just add it to each vehicle

time to hit ebay or car-part.com looking for an overhead console.

jaccod
04-28-2005, 09:35 PM
@ kdm004

What was it like taking the head liner out? Did you mount the mounting bracket and then cut the liner to the bracket? Please as much detail as possible. I can't believe contact with people who have answers. I think I can see light at the end of the tunnel. Thanks.

jaccod :lol2:

ypelchat
05-08-2005, 08:44 PM
Hello guys!

I have a 2001 Venture, and I could buy one coming from a 1998 venture. Does anyone know if it'll work in the 2001?

Thanks!

Yves.

ypelchat
05-10-2005, 09:08 PM
Finally, I have been able to locate an extended overhead console, that was pulled out of a wrecked 2001 Venture.

Does anyone know exactly where to look for the outside air temperature connector on the 2001 Venture?

Some say the connector its located near the radiator. :1zhelp:

Some say the connector is located near the windshield washer tank. :1zhelp:

Thanks in advance for all the help you could provide on this matter.

The engine compartment in the Venture, is so full, that it's difficult to locate things. :confused:

Yves. :)

ypelchat
05-26-2005, 12:39 PM
:grinno:

Ok, so i finally managed to install an overhead console with DIC, in my 2001 Venture that was not equipped with one when it left the factory. :iceslolan

Actually, electrically speaking, it was pretty easy to do. The main wiring is already there, and I found the DIC connector and wiring taped and attached to the headliner, over the passenger's side. To gain access to the connector, you will have to remove the two retaining clips that secures the sunshades in place. Thoses clips keep the sunshades from rotating freely. You do not need to remove or loosen the 3 main sunshades screws at all. Just the two small clips. Thoses clips are attached to the roof, with only one screw.

Then you will have to reach over the headliner with your hand, to locate the wiring harness, then peel the tape, then pull on the wiring harness, to find the connector. When you have the connector in your hands, it's just a matter of "plug and play", to have the DIC operating. :biggrin:

Next:

If you look carefully, you will find that there is an unused connector (a 3 pin connector, but with only 2 wires), near the windshield washer tank. This connector is used for the outside temperature sensor. However, in my 2001 Venture, there's an extra wiring harness extension that needs to be purchased (about two feet long). You will need this wiring extension to be able to mount the outside temperature sensor in the right place, which is in front of the radiator, on the left side. So you will have to purchase the sensor itself (about $10.00) and the wiring extension harness (about $12.00). Maybe this extra wiring harness is already there on the Pontiac Montana, but in my 2001 Venture, it's not there, so I had to purchase it.

So far, so good, however, there's a catch..... :banghead:

The new overhead console, with the DIC, is slightly narrower than the old console... which means that the headliner cutout hole, near the windshield, is about 1/8 inch larger, on both sides of the front part of the console (near the windshield), than the original overhead console. This gap is only visible for about an inch long, and the rest of the length of the console is OK, with no visible gap. To plug this gap, i've cut the "U" part of the old console, and managed to make the plastic part thinner, using a sander. I then inserted the thinned part over the new console, to plug the visible hole. It looks like it was done at the factory. :lol2:

You will have to trim part of the headliner too, so the extended portion of the console can be attached to the central top bracket.

You may not feel too comfortable, doing this headliner trimming to your vehicle, so you may chose to have the console professionnally installed instead.


:iceslolan
Yves.

GregA
05-26-2005, 05:57 PM
Yves,

Did you see the wiring in there for the POWER REAR WINDOWS (to the Switches)? I am thinking about getting some from the junkyard and trying to put them in.

ypelchat
05-26-2005, 07:34 PM
Yves,

Did you see the wiring in there for the POWER REAR WINDOWS (to the Switches)? I am thinking about getting some from the junkyard and trying to put them in.

There's also a large blue connector over the headliner. I assume it was meant for the power sliding doors and power rear windows (which my vehicle does not have), i'm not sure though. The blue connector has 6 wires. You'd want to check with someone who owns a factory service manual to be sure.

Yves.

redly1
06-08-2005, 10:29 PM
I installed an overhead console with DIC from an 00 Montana today in my 03 Montana today. damn that was easy...thanks for the idea

GregA
06-09-2005, 01:06 AM
I installed an overhead console with DIC from an 00 Montana today in my 03 Montana today. damn that was easy...thanks for the idea
Got an extra switch you want to unload? (The one that controls the rear windows?)

redly1
06-09-2005, 09:45 AM
I have the remaining small console with power sliding door, sliding door disable, power window, and lights switches. It looks like the switch panel can be accessed by removing some clips on the back.

e-mail me if you are interested (email link in profile)

ypelchat
06-09-2005, 10:46 AM
I installed an overhead console with DIC from an 00 Montana today in my 03 Montana today. damn that was easy...thanks for the idea

Plus, they're quite easy to find on e-bay, for $20.00 - $30.00. :grinyes:

Yves.

redly1
06-09-2005, 05:05 PM
Plus, they're quite easy to find on e-bay, for $20.00 - $30.00. :grinyes:

Yves.

yep, that's where I got mine

Where's the cheapest place to get the thermistor (temp sensor)?

ypelchat
06-09-2005, 08:42 PM
yep, that's where I got mine

Where's the cheapest place to get the thermistor (temp sensor)?

You may check with your local GM dealer. The outside air temperature sensor sells for less that $10.00.

Yves.

cdru
06-09-2005, 11:25 PM
I've checked at several aftermarket autoshops (Advanced, Autozone, etc) and none carry the outside temp sensor (at least that they can find). At $10 at the dealer, it's not exactly breaking the bank.

GregA
06-25-2005, 07:15 PM
:grinno:
...Next:
If you look carefully, you will find that there is an unused connector, near the windshield washer tank. This connector will be used for the outside temperature sensor. However, in my 2001 Venture, there's an extra wiring harness extension that needs to be purchased (about two feet long). You will need this wiring extension to be able to install the outside temperature sensor to the right place. So you will have to purchase the sensor itself (about $10.00) and the wiring extension harness (about $12.00). Maybe this extra wiring harness is already there on the Pontiac Montana, but in my 2001 Venture, it's not there, so I had to purchase it....
Yves.
I got an overhead console with the options I need (OnStar, Switch for rear windows) from eBay, plus it came with the "HomeLink" and the Driver Information Center too. Took a couple hours to get swapped because of my large hands and small space to work between the roof and headliner.

Now for the question:
Does anyone have the part number (GM or AC/Delco) of that "Wiring Extension Harness"?

I found the connector near the windshield washer tank, but of course there is no extension cable.

Oh yeah, I put a thermister from Radio Shack in the connector near the washer tank and I get a reading on the display (instead of OC). I don't think the reading is accurate (seems a bit high), but at least I know I have the right connector. I will get the GM Temperature Sensor from a dealer on Monday and would like to get the right cable to connect it.

I also noticed that the connector near the washer tank is a 3-pin connector (with only 2 pins used) and the diagram for the Temp Sensor connector shows only 2 pins! Is this right?

Thanks is advance,

ypelchat
06-26-2005, 11:59 PM
I got an overhead console with the options I need (OnStar, Switch for rear windows) from eBay, plus it came with the "HomeLink" and the Driver Information Center too. Took a couple hours to get swapped because of my large hands and small space to work between the roof and headliner.

Now for the question:
Does anyone have the part number (GM or AC/Delco) of that "Wiring Extension Harness"?

I found the connector near the windshield washer tank, but of course there is no extension cable.

Oh yeah, I put a thermister from Radio Shack in the connector near the washer tank and I get a reading on the display (instead of OC). I don't think the reading is accurate (seems a bit high), but at least I know I have the right connector. I will get the GM Temperature Sensor from a dealer on Monday and would like to get the right cable to connect it.

I also noticed that the connector near the washer tank is a 3-pin connector (with only 2 pins used) and the diagram for the Temp Sensor connector shows only 2 pins! Is this right?

Thanks is advance,



Follow-up:

While i was in the process of installing my overhead console, I went to my dealership to order the harness extension cable i needed, for the outside air temperature sensor, and was told by the parts guy that the part number I needed was: 15354054 WRONG :disappoin When the cable arrived, i found out that it had the right length, but both connectors were wrong. Obviously, the parts guy ordered the wrong harness extension cable, or ordered one not for a 2001 Venture.

So, since i was not willing to wait another week to get the right harness cable extension (sorry, i forgot to ask for the right part #) I said to myself: to hell with the connectors... I ended up cutting the connectors at both ends of the harness extension cable and also removed the connector near the windshield washer tank, and soldered everything directly. I also soldered the sensor itself to the harness extension (and packed the thing with silicone caulking to prevent water from entering the sensor).

It took me about 10 minutes to solder the cables and the sensor itself. It works perfectly. :lol2: (with the cables soldered, i won't have to worry about the cable connectors oxydizing in the future, which is a known cause of false readings by the sensor)

If you choose to do this, don't forget to put heat shrink tubing strips over each wires on the windshield washer tank side.

So.... if the GM parts guy tells you that you need 15354054, just tell him it's not the right harness extension. It doesn't have the right connectors. Maybe 15354054 is used in another year vehicle, but certainly not for the 2001 Venture.


You're right Greg, thats the right connector. It's a 3 pin connector, but with only two wire attached to it.

Yves.

GregA
06-28-2005, 01:16 AM
Follow-up:
... I ended up cutting the connectors at both ends of the harness extension cable ....
It took me about 10 minutes to solder the cables and the sensor itself. It works perfectly. :lol2: (with the cables soldered, i won't have to worry about the cable connectors oxydizing in the future, which is a known cause of false readings by the sensor)

If you choose to do this, don't forget to put heat shrink tubing strips over each wires on the washer bowl side.

So.... if the parts guy tells you that you need 15354054, just tell him it's not the right harness extension. It wont fit. Maybe it's used for another year, but certainly not for the 2001 Venture.

You're right Greg, thats the right connector. It's a 3 pin connector, but with only two wire attached to it.

Yves.
Yves,
Thanks for the input. Once I saw that 3-pin connector and the sensor with a 2-pin connector, I knew there was going to be trouble.

I took your advice and removed the old connector and soldered into the line. And thanks for the tip about the shrink tubing - taping those wires would have been a real pain.

If you want to see the whole story, including pictures & Part Numbers, you can visit the links below.

Thanks again!

Install Outside Temperature Sensor (http://www.my-chevy-venture.com/install-outside-temperature-sensor.html)

Replace Overhead Console (http://www.my-chevy-venture.com/replace-overhead-console.html)

Take Care,

98venture100
07-28-2005, 09:05 PM
If you want to see the whole story, including pictures & Part Numbers, you can visit the links below.

Thanks again!

Install Outside Temperature Sensor (http://www.links-to-golf.com/van/install-outside-temperature-sensor.html)

Replace Overhead Console (http://www.links-to-golf.com/van/replace-overhead-console.html)

Take Care,[/QUOTE]



Hello everyone, I've been going these threads and it's very informative. I had bought a overhead console from the junkyard from a 98 Pontiac Montana, I tried to put it into my '98 Venture. I couldn't find the harness for the DIC display anywhere, I looked all over the top of the headliner. I see the connector for the temperature sensor in front of the radiator, so I'm thinking if that's there then the harness has to be somewhere. Because I didn't see the wires for the temp. sensor in the console area. If anyone has a diagram or know if the harness is there, that would be great.

Thanks,

ypelchat
07-29-2005, 08:00 AM
I dunno about the 98 Venture, but I do know the wires are there in the 2001 Venture.

I think i have seen, somewhere, that the DIC wiring harness could be missing in the case of the "Value" model without the anti-lock brake option and without the side airbag option. I'm not sure about this, though.

Have you tried to look over the headliner very carefully, using a small mirror, and with a friend holding a small flash light over the headliner, so that you can see clearly? Sometimes, the DIC connector is entirely covered (like mine was) with tape so you dont see it. Try to reach over the headliner with your hands, and look over the passenger's side, as well as over the driver's side. My DIC connector was taped over the passenger's side, and others had theirs taped over the driver's side.

Good luck.

Yves.

ypelchat
07-29-2005, 08:17 AM
Doing a search on E-bay, today (07-29-2005), and I found that at least 10 overhead console are actually available. So if you were looking into adding this commodity to your vehicle, now is the time. Hurry-up. :lol2: They're cheap, like $24.95 + shipping. :grinyes:

Yves.

98venture100
07-29-2005, 05:43 PM
[QUOTE=ypelchat]I dunno about the 98 Venture, but I do know the wires are there in the 2001 Venture.

Thanks for the info, I'll go look again. My Venture is the LS short wheel base, and it has those options, it doesn't have rear AC though. My guess is the harness has to be there, because the temp. sensor connector is in front of the radiator. The next thing I was going to do was follow those wires and see where it ends up.

Thanks,

GregA
07-29-2005, 08:02 PM
My guess is the harness has to be there, because the temp. sensor connector is in front of the radiator. The next thing I was going to do was follow those wires and see where it ends up.

Thanks,
I guess I didn't take a wide enough picture of where the "extension connector" was (the violet colored one on this page (http://www.my-chevy-venture.com/install-outside-temperature-sensor.html)).

I believe if you trace the wires from in front of the radiator, you will find that connector between the battery and the front of the windshield washer fluid tank - right at the bottom. It was kind of a pain to find it the first time.

If you have both halves of that connector (to the radiator and toward the inside), I would assume the wiring is there (up in the headliner). Keep looking and feeling around.

Also, when I did mine, I said the DIC connector was taped down to the headliner. What I didn't say is that it was REALLY TAPED DOWN. I had my hand in there for a good 2 or 3 minutes trying to get it loose from the headliner. I finally had to use a long screwdriver to "gently" pry the tape loose.

Let us know how it goes,

ypelchat
08-09-2005, 10:34 PM
I recently installed an overhead console with DIC. It was an easy mod to do, and the console works perfectly. :lol2: The overhead console was purchased on E-bay, from a U.S seller, and I assume it was pulled off a U.S wrecked vehicle.

The DIC has a "L/100Km, and MPG setting. The MPG setting of this console, probably use 3.78L (1 U.S gallon) as the basis for calculation, because it's a U.S console.

I was wondering if the Canadian version of the overhead console, uses the 4.54L (1 Imperial gallon or Canadian gallon) to perform the calculation, of if they all use 3.78L, regardless of the country in which they'll be used? :dunno:

Yves.

redly1
08-11-2005, 04:18 PM
Yves...good question. Makes me wonder...My van was originally sold in Quebec, and imported to the states at about 17K miles. I've got a DIC I bought off ebay from Oklahoma.

98venture100
09-04-2005, 12:34 AM
I guess I didn't take a wide enough picture of where the "extension connector" was (the violet colored one on this page (http://www.links-to-golf.com/van/install-outside-temperature-sensor.html)).

I believe if you trace the wires from in front of the radiator, you will find that connector between the battery and the front of the windshield washer fluid tank - right at the bottom. It was kind of a pain to find it the first time.

If you have both halves of that connector (to the radiator and toward the inside), I would assume the wiring is there (up in the headliner). Keep looking and feeling around.

Also, when I did mine, I said the DIC connector was taped down to the headliner. What I didn't say is that it was REALLY TAPED DOWN. I had my hand in there for a good 2 or 3 minutes trying to get it loose from the headliner. I finally had to use a long screwdriver to "gently" pry the tape loose.

Let us know how it goes,


Sorry for the late response, I checked for both connectors and only found one near the windshield tank, which is probably to the radiator.
Oh well, leave it to GM for being cheap and not putting the harness there. I guess because it was a newer model at that time, they didn't think of putting the harness there, so later on someone can add a DIC, like me. http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/images/icons/icon9.gif
http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/images/icons/icon9.gifThe next thing I was going to try was to run wires to the connector for the DIC. I still have the harness from the van it came out of. I just need to find a wiring diagram for a 98 venture.

GregA
09-04-2005, 01:10 AM
Sorry for the late response, I checked for both connectors and only found one near the windshield tank, which is probably to the radiator.
Oh well, leave it to GM for being cheap and not putting the harness there. I guess because it was a newer model at that time, they didn't think of putting the harness there, so later on someone can add a DIC, like me. The next thing I was going to try was to run wires to the connector for the DIC. I still have the harness from the van it came out of. I just need to find a wiring diagram for a 98 venture.
What was the color of the connector AND was it the one with the MALE or FEMALE contacts? Mine had the FEMALE contacts.

I will see if I can get a diagram from the '98 Venture, but I thought the '97 through 2004 were pretty much the same. I'll let you know if I find the diagram.

Take Care,

GregA
09-04-2005, 01:44 AM
98venture100,

I sent you a PM.

98venture100
09-04-2005, 01:57 AM
What was the color of the connector AND was it the one with the MALE or FEMALE contacts? Mine had the FEMALE contacts.

I will see if I can get a diagram from the '98 Venture, but I thought the '97 through 2004 were pretty much the same. I'll let you know if I find the diagram.

Take Care,


It's a black female connector with a red clip in the back,probably to hold down the wires. It came out of a 97 Transport. It has 9 wires coming out of it. yellow, black, green, light green/black, gray, gray/black, yellow, orange and light brown. There were some other unused connectors in the console area of my van, I followed a diagram I had,( I think it was from this thread), and was able to get the DIC to power up. I believe it was the orange and yellow. Some of the wiring colors were different from the diagram I had.
I also connected the temp. sensor directly to the connector using alligator clips. The temp came on the display, but only temporarily and it then it would go blank with the dashes.. The compass didn't work either, it had the E displayed. I tried to calibrate it, I did the turning in circles bit and also set the region, but that didn't work. I figured maybe because all the wires weren't connected is why it's not working, either that or the DIC is not working. I tried searching the web for a different diagram, maybe the Pontiac's wiring is different from Chevy's, it shouldn't be though, they're the same van, different name.

Thanks for your help.

98venture100
09-04-2005, 02:09 AM
GregA, thanks I got the diagram.
Some of the wires, like the orange and yellow were already on some other small connectors, I cut those out and used those wires and powered up the DIC.

Thanks,

03 Montana
09-29-2005, 02:59 PM
I have the same problem as 98 Venture I can't get my DIC to work properly. The compass will not calibrate and the temp and fuel does not work. The temp works for about 30 seconds when the vehice is first started. Any help would be greatly appreciated. The vehicle is a 2003 pontiac Montana. The connector for the DIC was taped in the headliner.

ypelchat
09-30-2005, 07:59 AM
I have the same problem as 98 Venture I can't get my DIC to work properly. The compass will not calibrate and the temp and fuel does not work. The temp works for about 30 seconds when the vehice is first started. Any help would be greatly appreciated. The vehicle is a 2003 pontiac Montana. The connector for the DIC was taped in the headliner.

Your DIC is probably defective. Unless there's a defect somewhere in the main wiring harness of the DIC.

However, before you trash the console, I would try unplugging/plugging the DIC connector several times, to make sure there's no oxydation on the DIC contacts. There's good chance it will be OK after that. Make sure there's no remnants of glue left by the headliner tape on the contacts.

Usually, installing a overhead console it a matter of plug'n play. It should work immediately. As for the compass calibration, make sure to select the proper location code, as it is very important. Sometimes, the compass go out of sync and displays a C. When it happens, i do 2 or 3 360 slow turns, then the compass readjust itself.

Let me know if it works.

Yves.

cdru
09-30-2005, 10:25 AM
Sometimes, the compass go out of sync and displays a C. When it happens, i do 2 or 3 360 slow turns, then the compass readjust itself.Be sure not to be around overhead high voltage power lines or large metal structures. Both of which can throw off the calibration.

catesja
09-30-2005, 07:41 PM
I looked into the headliner area of my 00 Montana and found a connector that has the following wires:
Yellow
Orange
Gray w/Black
Gray
Black
Brown
I think that was the order they were in on the connector. The connector has a red sleeve on it also if that matters.
Is this the connector that goes to the DIC? I found it taped to the headliner over the passenger seat. There was also a shorter set of wires (2) that I could only touch and not pull out far enough to see. Not sure what those are for.

I would like to mod and add the DIC console to my van if I can.
The van came standard with the Dome light override, and the power rear vent windows. So those are the only switches in it right now. I also noticed that my Montana has the console clipped into the hole and not screwed in. It has lock washers on the top side that have to be clipped, it looks like, to pull it out of the van.

Any help would be great!

Jeff

ypelchat
09-30-2005, 10:01 PM
I looked into the headliner area of my 00 Montana and found a connector that has the following wires:
Yellow
Orange
Gray w/Black
Gray
Black
Brown
I think that was the order they were in on the connector. The connector has a red sleeve on it also if that matters.
Is this the connector that goes to the DIC? I found it taped to the headliner over the passenger seat. There was also a shorter set of wires (2) that I could only touch and not pull out far enough to see. Not sure what those are for.

I would like to mod and add the DIC console to my van if I can.
The van came standard with the Dome light override, and the power rear vent windows. So those are the only switches in it right now. I also noticed that my Montana has the console clipped into the hole and not screwed in. It has lock washers on the top side that have to be clipped, it looks like, to pull it out of the van.

Any help would be great!

Jeff

Hello;


Yup! that's the connector you need. Just plug this connector into the DIC socket, and you'll be in business! :lol2:

The mod itself will depend on the type of console you'll be able to find on E-bay, or somewhere else. The overhead console components are attached to the console with torx screws(the DIC and the reading lights. The switch assembly is attached to the console by means of plastic tabs). You may choose to retain the switches you already have in your vehicle, and put them into the new console, or you may choose to keep the new console switch assembly, even if it has features you dont have in your vehicle. The switch assembly will fit, since each of the blue and black connector wires have the same position, regardless of the equipment present in the vehicle. If you choose to retain your own switch assembly, you'll need a small flat screwdriver to pry out the old switch assembly out of the console (look for the corner plastic tabs), and then, you put back yours by pressing it into place.

After that, you'll have to look into the temperature sensor mod, if you want the temperature to be displayed. If you dont do the temperature sensor mod, the temperature displayed by the DIC will be 0c.

I suggest you to read every post in this thread, plus click on the links provided by GregA. He took a lot of pictures of the mod, so you'll have a good idea on how to do the mod. The mod is easy to do.

Good luck.

Yves.

catesja
10-01-2005, 01:58 PM
Thanks, I have read all the posts in this thread and have bookmarked the website with the mod and temp sensor addition. I think I will try both. So far I haven't found a console on ebay, must be a lot of people doing this!, but I keep an eye open. I am also going to check my local wrecking yards.

Thanks for the heads up!

Jeff

GregA
10-01-2005, 08:13 PM
Thanks, I have read all the posts in this thread and have bookmarked the website with the mod and temp sensor addition. I think I will try both. So far I haven't found a console on ebay, must be a lot of people doing this!, but I keep an eye open. I am also going to check my local wrecking yards.

Thanks for the heads up!

Jeff
Jeff,

I just saw a few consoles on eBay. Just put 'venture console' into the search box and you will find them. Pretty good deals too.

Take Care,

cdru
10-01-2005, 09:40 PM
I just saw a few consoles on eBay. Just put 'venture console' into the search box and you will find them. Pretty good deals too.I thought the same thing too, but then I checked his profile. He has a 2000 Montana. The Montanas have the darker tan interior as compared to the lighter tan that the Ventures and Silhouettes have.

catesja
10-01-2005, 10:39 PM
Yep I saw some Venture and Silhouette consoles today when I looked, but I have the grey interior and not tan. I am probably going to check some wrecking yards here and see what I can find. Thanks guys!

03 Montana
10-02-2005, 01:44 PM
Does any one have the pin out diagrams for the connection to the DIC for a 1998 Pontiac Montana and also a 2003 Pontiac Montana. The DIC I have is from a 1998 Pontiac Montana and i currently have a 2003 Montana. I just want to verify the wiring is in the same pins


Thanks

Jason

GregA
10-02-2005, 07:15 PM
Does any one have the pin out diagrams for the connection to the DIC for a 1998 Pontiac Montana and also a 2003 Pontiac Montana. The DIC I have is from a 1998 Pontiac Montana and i currently have a 2003 Montana. I just want to verify the wiring is in the same pins


Thanks

Jason
I did a little research, and there seems to be some minor difference between the pinouts. It appears to be that 1999 and below have certain signals that the 2000 and above do not.

Anyway, what I found is on the page shown below.

Driver Information Connector (http://www.my-chevy-venture.com/driver-information-connector.html)

Take Care,

03 Montana
10-03-2005, 07:56 PM
Thanks for your help. That explains why it doesn't work properly

Jason

03 Montana
10-14-2005, 09:12 PM
Got a DIC from a 2003 chev venture and it works perfectly thanks for all the help

Jason

denyp
10-19-2005, 08:57 PM
Ok Guys,

I have an '97 Venture LE with an overhead console. It has a bank of switches Only one is used to turn on/off the door interior light (big deal) Asside from this it has a cubby hole for sun glasses. I have read your posts with great interest - what else are you getting here? Please advise! What would the other switch locations be used for in my rig (at least 4 more)

Deny

GregA
10-20-2005, 12:43 AM
Ok Guys,

I have an '97 Venture LE with an overhead console. It has a bank of switches Only one is used to turn on/off the door interior light (big deal) Asside from this it has a cubby hole for sun glasses. I have read your posts with great interest - what else are you getting here? Please advise! What would the other switch locations be used for in my rig (at least 4 more)

Deny
From my Owners Manual (from Left to Right as you sit in the driver's seat)

- Interior Lamp Override (the one you have)
- Left Power Sliding Door Switch (with override)
- Right Power Sliding Door Switch (with override)
- Power Rear Quarter Window Switch (open & close)
- Rear Parking Aid Override Switch

Obviously not all vans have each switch installed (I have no power sliding doors, power rear quarter windows, or rear parking aid). It sounds like you have the same setup that I start with.

My next "project" is to install the rear quarter window motors (acquired via eBay), so when I got the replacement console I made sure that the switch was already there.

Take Care,

catesja
11-16-2005, 08:13 PM
Hey there guys, I got my new console today and am getting ready to mount it. The question I have is how to mount the overhead mount. I got an extra mounting bracket that is the same size as the console. This console was from a Sillhouette (2001) and I am assuming that my 2000 Montana doesn't have the mounting braket in the roof already, not exactly sure however. I also noticed that since this has onstar and the van doesn;t, that the wired pigtail on it looks different than what I have in the van. Is the DIC connector the same if I were to unplug it and plug my wire into it? The DIC wire is also connected to the On-star or homelink part. Also, if anyone has just the blank for the on-star section, since my van doesn't have on-star, I thought I would take that out, but without a blank or cover I have a hole in the roof. I am willing to trade straight across if someone needs the on-star part. Also, if the wiring is there for homelink? Not that I will use it now, but if the wiring is there I might as well hook it up in case I use it in the future!

Thanks Guys.

GregA
11-16-2005, 10:06 PM
Hey there guys, I got my new console today and am getting ready to mount it. The question I have is how to mount the overhead mount. I got an extra mounting bracket that is the same size as the console. This console was from a Sillhouette (2001) and I am assuming that my 2000 Montana doesn't have the mounting braket in the roof already, not exactly sure however.
I assume you have checked out my page here (http://www.my-chevy-venture.com/replace-overhead-console.html). If not, take a look.

From what I remember, the plastic mounting bracket seems to "float" between the metal roof and the headliner. I believe the pressure of screwing the console to the mount, with the headliner in between, holds it in place.

I say "seems to" because I did NOT have to remove my old mounting piece to install the replacement console (they were the same style & size), but it did seem to move around some. If you have (had) the smaller console (w/only lights & a few switches), the headliner will have to be cut to fit the new console. Take your time on this.

If you have to put the larger console in place, I would guess that the mounting piece would have to be slipped between the headliner & roof. You may be able to do this by removing the clips that hold the sun visors in place and gently pulling the headliner down just enough to get the mount in there.

I also noticed that since this has onstar and the van doesn;t, that the wired pigtail on it looks different than what I have in the van. Is the DIC connector the same if I were to unplug it and plug my wire into it? The DIC wire is also connected to the On-star or homelink part. Also, if anyone has just the blank for the on-star section, since my van doesn't have on-star, I thought I would take that out, but without a blank or cover I have a hole in the roof. I am willing to trade straight across if someone needs the on-star part. Also, if the wiring is there for homelink? Not that I will use it now, but if the wiring is there I might as well hook it up in case I use it in the future!

Thanks Guys.
I believe the DIC connectors are all the same, from year 2000 and above. It should work.

Is there what looks like a small set of "jumper" wires between the DIC and the Homelink on your new console? I believe this is the "pigtail" you mentioned above. I seem to remember something like that on my replacement console. I think it is used to supply power (and ONLY power) to the Homelink & you will probably have to keep it in place. I believe Homelink only needs power to operate.

As for the OnStar buttons, I would just leave them there.

I hope this helps. If you want, I could take some more pictures and put them on my web page for you to look at.

Take Care,

catesja
11-16-2005, 11:31 PM
Yes I found your website intriguing and this prompted me to look further into this mod for my van! It is very helpful and appreciative. This is what DIY info should be like!

These are the wires that are connected and the pigtail info:

On the pigtail that I am talking about are the wires to the DIC: yellow, orange, 0, 0, light grey, green/black, 0, black, dark grey (or brown)
This goes to another pigtail that also has the Homelink wires which are orange, black and light grey. It looks like the wires are spliced together on the homelink and the DIC before they go into the other pigtail.

It does look like the red tailed DIC connector will plug into the other pigtail, so I guess I will just plug it in.

On the extra pigtail the wires are like this: yellow, orange, 0, 0, light grey, green/black, black, black, dark grey (or brown)

Also what is required to make homelink work? Is there a programming guide somewhere?

I also pulled the On-Star cable into the pocket it is in and therefore eliminating the wires from the connection area.

I will also probably be using my original buttons on it as I have no use for them. I thought about maybe adding the sliding door modules and mechanisms, but it looks to complicated!

Thanks everyone!

Jeff

GregA
11-17-2005, 01:58 AM
Yes I found your website intriguing and this prompted me to look further into this mod for my van! It is very helpful and appreciative. This is what DIY info should be like!
Thanks for the kind words :smokin:

On the pigtail that I am talking about are the wires to the DIC: ...

Oops - Forgot to put the link to the DIC connector info. It is below:
Driver Information Center Connector (http://www.my-chevy-venture.com/driver-information-connector.html)

Also what is required to make homelink work? Is there a programming guide somewhere?
I either found the instructions online or in the Owner's Manual, which I downloaded once I registered the van at mygmlink.com . It is also in my printed manual, but I find the downloaded PDF file more usable. I have NOT used the homelink yet 'cause my garage door opener is VERY old.

I will also probably be using my original buttons on it as I have no use for them. I thought about maybe adding the sliding door modules and mechanisms, but it looks to complicated!

Thanks everyone!

Jeff
Yeah - the power sliding doors are also noted (in these forums) for failing to work properly and need to be "reset" every now and then. Too much work for me.

Did you see the section of the site where I installed the Power Rear Quarter Vent Motors (http://www.my-chevy-venture.com/power-rear-quarter-vent-window-motors.html) (upgrade from "manual" latches)? I still have more work to do on those pages, but I have the motors installed and they work great (just in time for winter! :lol: ).

Take Care,

traker1001
11-18-2005, 12:56 PM
Ok folks for us 97/98 owners its not as easy but it is possible, I just finished doing this to my 98 venture and heres the answer... There is no DIC connector in our vans, heres how I did it.


I purchased a 99 Silohuette OH console, and lucky for me they just clipped the wiring harness unstead of leaving out the connectors.

in the 97/98 venture the DIC wires end on the pillar between the right sliding door and the front right door. If you pull the seatbelt off and the covers off you will see a black junction box right below the seat belt pully. If you look one side of this box has all the DIC wires you need, This is where they end. GM in there ifinite wisdom decided not to put an extension.

So what I did was get some extra wire and directly splice into these wires, ran the new wire up to the overhead console and connected the connector they sent with the console. Plugged it in and voila it worked. Fortunatly the temp sensor connector was indeed where it neded to be. And I checked and the rear power window conectors are there, They also get power when I push the button. So rear power windows here i come.

Hope this helps out.

PS. The yellow wire that has voltage while the key is on (But not started.)is the Fused Accessory Feed, The other one doesnt seem to have any current on it while the key is on.

catesja
11-19-2005, 03:20 PM
I was wondering if someone had figured out a way to mount the overhead console in the spot where a standard shorty was installed originally? I have mine in, but in the front it sticks down about 1 inch or so. It blocks the top portion of the rearview mirror. I was wondering if anyone found a way to cut or shave the mounting plate so that it fits more flush?

Also, does someone have a step by step on matching the old front half to the new to cover the headliner? It looks good until you get to the front where the new console is not as wide as the old.

Thanks

Jeff Cates


BTW...everything works except the temp probe of course, I need to get those parts and install them. Oh and my compass was off so I have to calibrate it. It said West was East! Go figure. I haven't tried the homelink yet either, I need a garage door or something to try it on!

catesja
11-19-2005, 05:16 PM
Hey there again. I custom cut the front of the old console to fit and hide under the new one, I also trimmed the new console mounting bracket so that I could get it as far forward as I could so that there was a small gap. I did however notice that the mounting bracket has (no had) some bolt holes towards the outer edge on the front, and in the headliner area I found matching holes in the van body. But this would place the console about 4 inches further back and leave a huge gap in the front. However it did seem that at that position, the console wouldn't obstruct any of the rearview mirror, but rather than get a new headliner to match the console, I cut and make it work my way!

Also, I noticed the violet plug in the engine compartment around the washer bottle. It was plugged into another harness, so I looked to the front of the van and the matching colored wires plugged into the violet were in front of the radiator on the passenger side with a blue 2-wire plug. So it looks like my van is ready for the sensor and all I will need is a sensor!

My van already had the rear power quarter windows, so I didn't have to mess with any of that.

This is so cool. My mother-in-law has a 2000 Dodge Intrepid with the DIC ssystem, and since she got it in 2000 I wanted that in my car. But the van we bought (used about 2 years ago) didn't have it and I figured it wouldn't be possible to do.

Low and behold......done (almost). I also noticed that I couldn't get the Homelink to work even in programming mode. I am wondering if that has to do with a black wire not present in the van side harness! Do you guys think that the black wires could be spliced together?

Thanks
Jeff Cates

traker1001
11-19-2005, 05:55 PM
Black wires are just ground, You dont have to splice them just find a piece of the body metal to screw them into.

Add your comment to this topic!