Alpine ILX-F259 install in 2nd gen

My trusty Kenwood stereo died after many years of service, and I ran across a good deal on an Apline ILX-F259 (with a 9" LCD screen permanently fixed) so I decided to jump and buy/install. Apple Carplay is exciting, (and Android Auto works too) so it was a pretty big jump from the old 40pin ipod connector Kenwood.

Note that Crutchfield shows this stereo will not work with a 2nd gen Tacoma because it does not include an ISO sleeve and instead mounts directly to a frame inside the console. Since the Toyota doesn't ship with a compatible frame from the factory, its listed as incompatible. However, I ordered a Scorche TA2052B (also listed as not compatible...) and everything snaps together great. The only difficult part was the upper clips on the trim piece are very tight, which I appreciate since it'll rattle less once installed. Even though the Scorche was silver, it matches close enough to the trim that it looks nice and professional.


I also took the time to install a USB jack in place of the factory installed analog aux in in the lower panel. This particular USB jack had low scores on Amazon, but so far it works. Sorry for the fuzzy pic.

My speakers were already replaced and driven by a separate power amp, so I can't say how it sounds with factory speakers.


And yes, I know dynamat fixes rattles but doesn't reduce road noise. The doors were pre-matted by the previous owner.

If I can answer any questions about this setup, feel free to ping me. So far I'm very happy.

 

Hey, I know it’s been a while since you posted this but I had a couple questions. 1.) Was it pretty compatible out of box with wiring, any luck with the steering wheel controls?
2.) is there a USB and an AUX port in the back of the head unit for easy auxiliary port USB/AUX hook up?
3.) Does the screen itself easily come off for storage? Never know when you’re in a sketchy area and don’t want a large screen visible to people.
I’ve been thinking of doing this same thing and I’m glad to see it can be done!