PAC RP3-GM11 Radio Replacement Interface User Manual

1. Introduction

The PAC RP3-GM11 Radio Replacement Interface is designed to facilitate the installation of an aftermarket radio in select General Motors (GM) vehicles without OnStar. This interface retains essential factory features and provides necessary outputs for proper aftermarket radio functionality.

It ensures the vehicle's data-bus remains intact for service and offers a high-current 10A accessory output. Additionally, it provides data-controlled outputs for navigation radios, including speed, reverse, and E-brake status wires. The interface also supports the retention of factory-installed amplifiers and offers a data-controlled Retained Accessory Power (R.A.P.) output.

A plug-in connection is available for optional steering wheel control modules (SWI-RC or SWI-X), and the chime volume is adjustable through four levels, including an off setting.

Package Contents:

• PAC RP3-GM11 RadioPro3 Module
• Vehicle Connection Harness (Plug & Play)
• Instruction Manual (this document)

2. Safety Information

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

Always disconnect the vehicle's battery before beginning any electrical installation to prevent short circuits and potential damage. Ensure all connections are secure and properly insulated to avoid electrical hazards. If you are unsure about any part of the installation process, consult a qualified automotive technician.

3. Setup and Installation

The PAC RP3-GM11 is designed for plug-and-play installation in compatible GM vehicles with a Class II data-bus and a 24-pin harness. Follow these general steps for installation:

3.1 Component Overview

Image 1: PAC RP3-GM11 Radio Replacement Interface module and wiring harness. This image displays the PAC RP3-GM11 Radio Replacement Interface module, a blue rectangular device, alongside its associated wiring harness. The harness includes various color-coded wires, connectors, and RCA plugs, designed for integration into select GM vehicles.

3.2 Pre-Installation Steps

1. Disconnect Battery: Always disconnect the negative terminal of the vehicle's battery before starting any electrical work.
2. Remove Factory Radio: Carefully remove the factory radio from the dashboard, following your vehicle's specific disassembly instructions.
3. Identify Vehicle Harness: Locate the factory wiring harness that was connected to your original radio.

3.3 Wiring Connections

Connect the PAC RP3-GM11 harness to your aftermarket radio's wiring harness. While the system is largely plug-and-play, some minimal wiring may be required depending on your aftermarket radio and vehicle configuration. Refer to the wiring diagrams provided with your aftermarket radio and the PAC RP3-GM11 for specific connections.

• Power/Ground: Connect the main power and ground wires.
• Accessory Output: The RP3-GM11 provides a high-current 10A accessory output.
• Navigation Outputs: Connect the speed, reverse, and E-brake status output wires from the RP3-GM11 to your navigation radio, if applicable.
• Factory Amplifier: The interface retains the factory-installed amplifier, if equipped. Ensure proper connections.
• Steering Wheel Controls (Optional): If using an optional PAC SWI-RC or SWI-X module for steering wheel controls, connect it to the dedicated plug-in connection on the RP3-GM11.
• Illumination Wire: In some rare cases (e.g., certain 2003 Impala models), the illumination wire may need to be re-pinned on the vehicle harness for correct functionality. Consult a vehicle-specific wiring diagram if issues arise.

3.4 Post-Installation Syncing

After connecting the interface and aftermarket radio, perform the following syncing procedure:

1. Ensure the vehicle's ignition is OFF and the driver's door is OPEN.
2. Connect the RP3-GM11 module and harness to both the aftermarket stereo and the vehicle's factory harness.
3. Close the driver's door.
4. Turn the ignition to the ACC (Accessory) position.
5. Wait approximately 30 seconds for the system to synchronize.
6. Turn off the ignition and open the driver's door.
7. The system should now be synchronized and ready for operation.

Note: This syncing process is crucial for proper operation and to prevent issues like the radio not turning off with the ignition.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1 Chime Volume Adjustment

The RP3-GM11 allows adjustment of the vehicle's chime volume. The interface offers four distinct volume levels, as well as an option to turn the chime off completely. Refer to the specific instructions included with your RP3-GM11 module for the exact procedure to adjust the chime volume, as this typically involves a sequence of button presses on the aftermarket radio or a switch on the module itself.

4.2 Retained Accessory Power (R.A.P.)

The interface maintains the factory R.A.P. feature, which keeps the radio powered for a short period after the ignition is turned off, typically until a door is opened. Ensure the post-installation syncing procedure is followed to guarantee correct R.A.P. functionality.

4.3 Steering Wheel Controls (with optional module)

If you have installed an optional PAC SWI-RC or SWI-X steering wheel control interface, refer to the manual provided with that specific module for programming and operation instructions. The RP3-GM11 provides the necessary data connection for these modules to function.

5. Maintenance

5.1 Firmware Updates

The RP3-GM11 interface can be updated with the latest firmware if needed. Updates are typically available on the official PAC website. To perform an update, you will require a PAC-UP USB adapter (sold separately). Follow the instructions provided on the PAC website for downloading and installing firmware updates.

Regularly checking for firmware updates can ensure optimal performance and compatibility with new vehicle models or aftermarket radios.

6. Troubleshooting

• Radio Does Not Turn On:
  • Verify all wiring connections are secure.
  • Ensure the post-installation syncing procedure (Section 3.4) has been correctly performed.
  • Check the vehicle's fuses and the aftermarket radio's fuse.
• Radio Stays On After Ignition Off / Battery Drain:
  • This indicates an issue with the Retained Accessory Power (R.A.P.) output. Re-perform the post-installation syncing procedure (Section 3.4).
  • Ensure the driver's door is opened after turning off the ignition to trigger the R.A.P. shutdown.
• No Chime Sound or Incorrect Chime Volume:
  • Check the chime volume settings as described in Section 4.1.
  • Verify the chime speaker connection on the RP3-GM11 module.
• Steering Wheel Controls Not Functioning:
  • Ensure the optional PAC SWI-RC or SWI-X module is correctly connected and programmed according to its specific manual.
  • Verify the connection between the SWI module and the RP3-GM11.
• No Illumination on Aftermarket Radio:
  • Check the illumination wire connection. In some GM vehicles, re-pinning the illumination wire on the vehicle harness may be necessary.
  • Consult your vehicle's wiring diagram for the correct illumination wire location.

For further assistance, visit the official PAC website or contact their technical support.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

For information regarding the product warranty, please refer to the official PAC website or the documentation included with your purchase. PAC provides technical support for their products to assist with installation or troubleshooting queries.

Online Support: Visit the official PAC website for product information, firmware updates, and support resources.

Contact Support: Refer to the PAC website for current contact information for technical assistance.