I’m looking to upgrade the head unit in my 1999 Toyota Solara SLE with the factory JBL sound system and have chosen the Pioneer AVIC 5100NEX. I’ve been researching the parts needed for installation, and I want to confirm I’m on the right track, especially with the JBL system complicating things. Here’s what I’ve gathered so far:
- Metra 70-1761 harness: For the connectors behind the OEM head unit.
- Metra 70-8113 harness: Also for connecting to the OEM head unit.
- Pioneer NEX harness: Included with the AVIC 5100NEX.
My plan is to match the wires by function, splice them together, and bypass the smaller jack near the antenna. I’m aiming to retain the factory JBL amplifier and sound system. However, I have a few points of confusion regarding these harnesses and the RCA connections.
Firstly, is the Metra 70-1761 harness necessary if I’m already using the 70-8113? Should I be considering the 70-8112 instead since my Solara is a pre-2000 model? The 70-8113 harness comes with four male RCA jacks, but my Pioneer 5100nex has two female RCA inputs (SWL and SWR) and four female RCA outputs (two front, two rear). Which RCA jacks should I be connecting, and are the Metra RCA jacks inputs or outputs in this context? I’m assuming the jacks on the Metra side are inputs, implying I should use the outputs on the NEX, but clarification would be appreciated.
Secondly, if both the 70-1761 and 8113 harnesses are required and have wires with similar functions, do I need to splice both into the corresponding wire on the Pioneer NEX harness? Or does one harness take precedence over the other?
The JBL sound system is proving to be a hurdle. Most online guides and readily available parts seem geared towards non-JBL systems. My searches in forums regarding Solaras with JBL systems often lead to confused discussions without clear answers. Many threads mention the Metra 70-8113 harness, suggesting it’s crucial, but lack specifics on dealing with the “mystery jack” and the RCA connections when integrating with an aftermarket unit like the Pioneer 5100NEX.
Am I overlooking anything critical before I proceed? Is this a situation where trial and error is the only way forward, hoping I don’t damage anything in the process? Any guidance from someone with experience installing a Pioneer 5100NEX or similar aftermarket radio in a 1999-2003 Toyota Solara with a JBL system would be immensely helpful.
