PAC RP5-GM32 Radio Replacement Interface User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of the PAC RP5-GM32 Radio Replacement Interface. The RP5-GM32 is designed to facilitate the integration of an aftermarket radio into select GM LAN vehicles while retaining essential factory features.

Please read this manual thoroughly before beginning installation to ensure proper functionality and to avoid potential damage to your vehicle or the interface.

2. Product Overview

The PAC RP5-GM32 is a radio replacement interface engineered to maintain key factory functionalities when upgrading your vehicle's audio system. It ensures a seamless transition to an aftermarket head unit.

Key Features:

• Retains OnStar functionality after factory radio replacement.
• Maintains factory Bluetooth (for 2009+ model vehicles).
• Preserves rear seat audio controls.
• Retains all warning chimes (chime module included).
• Provides pre-programmed steering wheel control retention.
• Offers navigation output for aftermarket head units.

What's in the Box:

• RP5-GM32 Interface Module
• Wiring Harnesses
• Chime Module (CMX)
• Steering Wheel Control (SWC) Cable
• Antenna Adapter
• RCA Cables (for audio/video outputs)

Figure 1: Components included with the PAC RP5-GM32 interface. This image displays the main interface module, multiple wiring harnesses with various connectors (including RCA and a 3.5mm jack for steering wheel control), a small chime module, and an antenna adapter.

3. Vehicle Compatibility

The RP5-GM32 is specifically designed for use in the following GM LAN vehicles:

• All 2012-2013 GM trucks and SUVs equipped with factory navigation radios.
• 2012+ 2500 & 3500 trucks equipped with factory navigation radios.

Important Compatibility Notes:

• For 2012-2013 GM trucks & SUVs equipped with factory non-navigation radios, the RP5-GM31 interface must be used instead.
• For 2014+ Silverado & Sierra 1500 series trucks, the RP5-GM51 interface must be used instead.

4. Setup and Installation

Installation of the RP5-GM32 requires technical knowledge of automotive electrical systems. If you are not comfortable with these procedures, it is recommended to seek professional installation.

Before You Begin:

• Disconnect the vehicle's negative battery terminal to prevent electrical shorts.
• Ensure all components listed in Section 2 are present.
• Refer to the detailed wiring diagram provided with your specific product packaging for precise connections. This manual provides general guidance.

General Installation Steps:

1. Remove Factory Radio: Carefully remove the factory radio from the dashboard, following your vehicle's specific disassembly instructions.
2. Connect Interface Harness: Connect the vehicle-specific harness from the RP5-GM32 to the factory wiring harness in the vehicle.
3. Connect Aftermarket Radio: Connect the aftermarket radio's wiring harness to the corresponding wires on the RP5-GM32 harness. Pay close attention to power, ground, speaker, and accessory wires.
4. Steering Wheel Control (SWC): Connect the 3.5mm SWC jack from the RP5-GM32 harness to the SWC input on your aftermarket radio. If your radio uses a wired SWC input, connect the appropriate wires as per the detailed wiring diagram.
5. Chime Module (CMX): Connect the CMX module to the RP5-GM32 interface. Ensure it is securely mounted in a location where chimes can be heard clearly.
6. Navigation Outputs: If your aftermarket radio utilizes navigation features, connect the navigation output wires (e.g., parking brake, reverse, vehicle speed sense) from the RP5-GM32 to the corresponding inputs on your aftermarket radio.
7. Antenna Connection: Use the provided antenna adapter to connect the vehicle's factory antenna to the aftermarket radio.
8. Test System: Before fully reassembling the dashboard, reconnect the vehicle's battery and test all functions of the aftermarket radio, OnStar, steering wheel controls, and warning chimes.
9. Reassemble: Once all functions are verified, carefully reassemble the dashboard.

Note on Sony Bluetooth SWC: Sony Bluetooth Steering Wheel Control commands are only supported with revision 1.6.6.14 or higher of the RP5-GM32 firmware. Check your unit's firmware version if experiencing issues.

5. Operating Instructions

Once installed, the PAC RP5-GM32 operates automatically to retain the specified factory features. No direct user interaction with the interface module is typically required during normal operation.

• OnStar: OnStar functionality will be retained. Refer to your vehicle's owner's manual for specific OnStar operation.
• Steering Wheel Controls: Your factory steering wheel audio controls will function with your aftermarket radio. The specific commands (volume, track, mode) will be pre-programmed.
• Rear Seat Audio Controls: If your vehicle is equipped, rear seat audio controls will remain functional.
• Warning Chimes: All factory warning chimes will be reproduced through the CMX module.

6. Maintenance

The PAC RP5-GM32 is designed for maintenance-free operation. However, the following general guidelines can help ensure its longevity:

• Ensure all connections remain secure. Loose connections can lead to intermittent functionality.
• Keep the area around the interface module free from excessive dust or moisture.
• Avoid exposing the module to extreme temperatures beyond typical automotive operating conditions.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues after installing the RP5-GM32, review the following common problems and solutions:

• No Power to Aftermarket Radio:
  • Check all power and ground connections from the RP5-GM32 harness to the aftermarket radio and the vehicle.
  • Verify the vehicle's fuse for the radio circuit.
• Steering Wheel Controls Not Functioning:
  • Ensure the 3.5mm SWC jack is fully inserted into the aftermarket radio's SWC input.
  • Confirm your aftermarket radio is configured to accept external steering wheel controls.
  • For Sony radios, verify firmware version is 1.6.6.14 or higher for Bluetooth SWC commands.
• No Chimes or Incorrect Chime Volume:
  • Check the connection to the CMX chime module.
  • Ensure the CMX module is not obstructed.
• No Fading Capability with Premium Amplified Systems:
  • This is a known limitation. In premium amplified systems, the aftermarket stereo will not have fading capability.
• Factory Satellite Radio / XM Tuner Not Retained:
  • The RP5-GM32 does not retain factory satellite radio or XM tuner functionality. These are typically built into the factory radio and are removed when the factory radio is replaced.
• OnStar Volume Adjustment from Steering Wheel Controls Not Working:
  • The RP5-GM32 does not retain OnStar volume adjustment from steering wheel controls.
• No Reverse Camera Power / Reverse Camera Not Displaying:
  • The RP5-GM32 may not provide a dedicated reverse camera power output or trigger for all aftermarket head units. You may need to locate and tap into a vehicle's reverse light wire for the camera trigger.
• No Sound from Bose Amplifier:
  • Ensure the blue wire (typically for amplifier turn-on) is correctly connected. Some instructions may incorrectly state it is not used, but it is necessary for triggering factory Bose amplifiers.

If issues persist, consult the detailed installation guide provided with the product or contact PAC technical support.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty Information

The PAC RP5-GM32 comes with a 1 Year Limited Warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. For specific terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty documentation included with your product or contact PAC customer service.

10. Support

For technical assistance, detailed wiring diagrams, or further inquiries regarding the PAC RP5-GM32, please visit the official PAC website or contact their customer support directly. Always have your product model number (RP5-GM32) and vehicle information ready when seeking support.

Manufacturer: AAMP of America

11. Legal Disclaimer

WARNING: This product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.