Headrest Monitor Installation
By Manny Thompson
The Snake Pit

There are a multitude of options for video monitors used in rear seat entertainment. However, LCD monitors installed in the vehicle’s headrests are most common. There are many choices for replacement headrests with pre-installed monitors and factory-matched fabrics. Additionally, there are plenty of opportunities for an installation technician to install a universal headrest screen in the customer’s OEM headrest and still get excellent finished quality results in just a few hours.

Now, rear seat entertainment can be installed today without having to worry about special ordering products. With headrest screens that have installation trim kits, installation is easier than ever and only requires a few basic tools. The real importance is to plan the mounting and wiring before you get started so that the installation time is spent efficiently.

Getting Started :

Step 1: Checking your headrest

Before you get started, check to make sure there is enough room inside the headrest as far as depth and overall surface area for the footprint of the monitor and any mounting trim. Then, look at the angle of the head rest posts and make sure that the monitor will mount properly without flaws.

Some materials can be harder to work with than others. For example, cloth will not stretch as much as vinyl and can possibly unravel. Vinyl or leather will tear much easier than cloth when under stress. Being careful when preparing and executing your cuts is perhaps the most important part of the installation process. It is very easy to slip when rushing your cuts and there is no correcting the mistake other than making an unwanted visit to your local upholstery shop. This is why it is so important to plan out and clearly mark all of your cuts and the places where wiring will run. After you do a few of these installations, it does get easier. Don't forget to treat each car with the planning that it deserves to ensure a great finished result!

Check out Manny’s full article, Headrest Monitor Installation, on MECP.com. Along with some time-saving tips, you’ll find the finishing process for a couple different types of headrests so that you have a good idea of what’s involved in various vehicle applications.

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