Mounting detector in Headliner ?

[denaliman]

I am thinking of mounting my STi up in the headliner just to the right of my rearview mirror and console. I pulled the console and there is a cavity that I think I can fit the unit in. I am not sure what the headliner is made from, but it is very rigid and is molded, kind of looks like fibreglass. The fit will be tight. Will there be any compromise on range or interference from the windshield's metal structure along the top of the headliner? I know that I will not get Laser alerts, but I think they will be useless anyway. My main concern is interference or the signal being blocked by the metal beam that runs along the top of the roof and windshield. Also, because the fit will be tight is it alright to mount the unit slightly on its side to accomodate the install location? The vehicle is an '07 BMW X5. I plan on using the Cheetah GPS mirror to integrate. Here in Ontario I need to hide the STi as stealth as I can.

[specialchicken]

would STRONGLY recommend you DONT install it in there, the STI doesn't react to heat very well and up there it will be copping direct heat from the metal roof and I assure you the detector will fail and show service required real quick.

The hotter the STi the less sensitive it gets...havnt you noticed it is quieter on hot days

I suggest something like a cd wallet or something on the visor

[bkrell]

I've noticed the same thing in my car. There is a layer of foam or rubber between the headliner and roof. I can slide the visor mount between these two layers. In my car, it's much more effective than visor mounting b/c my visor is recessed from the windshield so much. This gives the effect of a windshield mount without actually using the cups.

[specialchicken]

i still dont recommend mounting near the roof in a concealed place...it gets very very hot in summer

[denaliman]

Thanks for advise. It was an idea that I thought may work. Do you think I would have the same problem/issues if I mounted the unit behind the grill in a waterproof box?

[vliou2173]

Easier said than done. If you truly find a truly waterproof box, let us know 8)

[specialchicken]

Thanks for advise. It was an idea that I thought may work. Do you think I would have the same problem/issues if I mounted the unit behind the grill in a waterproof box?

wont be as bad but I have seen a few members do this and wind up with paper weights due to water leakage!

[Orbital75]

It was an idea that I thought may work. Do you think I would have the same problem/issues if I mounted the unit behind the grill in a waterproof box?

There's no reason to break it.
If you don't want your detector, I'll take it.

[Braveheart]

I have a uniden mounted in one of my cars in the headliner. Its been there for about 4 years and it picked up an IO Ka perfectly. I dont drive the car much but its still holding up.

[specialchicken]

I have a uniden mounted in one of my cars in the headliner. Its been there for about 4 years and it picked up an IO Ka perfectly. I dont drive the car much but its still holding up.

my condolences re the cobra..lol

But the cobra doesn't have a magnesium case, this is where the problem lies...plastic doesn't get anywhere near as hot as metal