RPK4-CH4101: Complete Radio Replacement with Integrated Climate Control Retention
For Select 2013-2019 RAM Trucks
Introduction and Features
The RPK4-CH4101 is a comprehensive radio replacement kit designed to integrate with the climate control system of 2013-2019 RAM trucks equipped with an 8" screen. This kit includes all necessary modules and cables to retain crucial factory features such as steering wheel mounted radio controls, the factory reverse camera, and AM/FM reception.
A secondary 5.2" LCD screen is incorporated to provide enhanced vehicle control. This includes a user interface for climate controls, vehicle settings, factory amplifier control, settings for the RPK4.2-CH4101 interface, forced camera activation, and the ability to add additional cameras, tire pressure, and vehicle gauges. The specific features accessible via the LCD screen may vary depending on the vehicle's original equipment. Refer to the 'Important Notes' section for further details.
Four physical buttons are located on the radio dash bezel, below the 5.2" LCD screen. These buttons allow users to set presets for functions like specific climate controls, forced camera activation, and LCD screen controls. The functionality of these hard buttons can vary based on vehicle features and installed cameras.
Please note that some advanced features may require additional accessories, which are sold separately.
Important Notes
We strongly recommend thoroughly reading this manual to familiarize yourself with the entire installation process before beginning.
- Compatibility is limited to vehicles equipped with the 8" screen.
- For 2019 RAM Trucks, compatibility is restricted to the Classic body style.
- The following factory features are NOT retained:
- Cluster Display Features
- Compass
- Clock
- Phone pop-ups
- Navigation pop-ups
- uConnect Features
- WiFi-Hotspot
- SOS / Assist
- Factory Amplifier Features
- Speed Controlled Volume
- If your truck is equipped with parking sensors, the included external speaker must be used to ensure parking sensor chimes are audible. If the truck has a factory amplified system and parking sensors, this speaker is not necessary unless the factory amplifier is no longer in use.
- If you are adding additional cameras, or if the truck has factory cameras beyond the reverse camera, PAC part number RPA-16P5V (sold separately) is required to connect up to a total of 5 cameras.
Components
Tools needed for installation:
- Phillips head screwdriver
- 7mm socket, ratchet
- T20 torx screwdriver
- Plastic panel removal tool (e.g., PAC part number TL-PRY2)
- Airsaw or hacksaw with a metal cutting blade (unless installing a shallow mount radio; see page 6 for details)
Included Components:
# | Component Name |
---|---|
1 | Climate Control Button Inserts |
2 | Radio Dash Bezel with 5.2" LCD Display |
3 | External Chime Speaker |
4 | RP4.2-CH4101 Interface Harness |
5 | RP4.2-CH4101 Aftermarket Radio Connection Harness |
6 | Radio Mounting Shroud |
7 | AM/FM Antenna Adapter (BAA22) |
8 | Radio Mounting Brackets |
9 | OEM USB Replacement Hub* |
10 | Reverse Camera Retention Harness (RPA-16P1V) |
11 | Single DIN Mounting Pocket |
12 | Radio Mounting Screws |
13 | RP4.2-CH4101 Radio Replacement Interface |
*Some kits include a USBDMA6 and instructions for obtaining a USB Hub Replacement.
Installation
Part One: Disassembly of Factory Dash
Trucks With a Center Console
If your truck has a center console, begin here. If not, skip to page 4.
- Step 1: Remove the circled rubber inserts to access the screws securing the dash and console.
- Step 2: Remove the two T-20 torx screws from the top of the dash.
- Step 3: Remove the T-20 torx screw from the back of the small pocket on the right side of the dash.
- Step 4: Remove the two Phillips head screws in the tray at the bottom of the dash panel.
- Step 5a (2013-2015 models): Remove the chrome trim ring around the center console storage compartment.
- Step 5b (2016-2019 models): Remove the rubber insert in the bottom of the center console storage compartment. Remove the 7mm screw from the bottom of the storage compartment.
- Step 6: Remove the center console by pulling straight up from the back, then pulling the console outward toward the back of the truck.
- Step 7: Remove the dash panel by gripping firmly and pulling straight out on the top portion of the panel.
- Step 8: Disconnect all harnesses from the back of the dash panel. Once disconnected, remove the dash panel from the truck.
Trucks Without a Center Console
If your truck does not have a center console, begin here.
- Step 1: Remove the circled rubber insert to access the screws securing the dash in place.
- Step 2: Remove the two T-20 torx screws from the top of the dash.
- Step 3: Remove the T-20 torx screw from the back of the small pocket on the right side of the dash (this screw may not always be present).
- Step 4: Remove the dash panel by gripping firmly and pulling straight out on the top portion of the panel.
- Step 5: Disconnect all harnesses from the back of the dash panel. Once disconnected, remove the dash panel from the truck.
This concludes Part One. Please proceed to Part Two.
Part Two: Radio Removal / Dash Preparation
Removing the Radio
- Step 1: Remove the four 7mm screws securing the factory radio in place.
- Step 2: Disconnect the 52-pin dock and lock connector, along with all antenna connections, from the radio. The number of antenna connections may vary based on vehicle features.
- Step 3: Remove the factory radio from the dash. (Dash appearance may vary by model year.)
Relocating the Factory Security Module
(If present; not necessary if installing a shallow mount radio)
- Step 1: If your truck is equipped with the factory security module, it must be relocated to allow removal of the lower portion of the metal support bracket.
- Step 2: Remove the three 7mm screws circled in the image and set them aside.
- Step 3: Relocate the security module to just below the plastic support beam shown in the image.
Cutting the Sub-Dash
(Not necessary if installing a shallow mount radio)
- Step 1: For 2013-2017 model years, cut here.
- Step 2: For 2018-2019 model years, cut here. More metal may need to be removed for these models.
- Step 3: After cutting, the sub-dash should appear similar to the provided image.
This concludes Part Two. Please proceed to Part Three.
Part Three: Installing the New Dash Panel
- Step 1: Remove the portion of the dash outlined in red and prepare to replace it with the new PAC dash bezel.
- Step 2: Remove the 13 Phillips head screws holding the factory dash bezel onto the dash panel. Retain these screws for securing the new dash bezel.
- Step 3: To remove the factory dash bezel, flip the panel over and pull straight out from the bottom of the bezel, then down.
- Step 4: Your dash panel should now look like the image. Ensure you have retained the 13 Phillips head screws from Step 2.
- Step 5: Install the appropriate insert (Auto or Blank) into the center of the fan speed knob on the new dash panel. Choose the correct insert carefully, as changing it after installation can be challenging.
- Step 6a: If your vehicle has Automatic Climate Controls, install the insert labeled "Auto". Align the light pipe with the hole in the kit. Note: Installing this button will not add automatic climate control functionality if the truck did not originally have it.
- Step 6b: The "Auto" insert should look like this when properly installed.
- Step 6c: If your vehicle does not have automatic AC, install the blank insert. It should look like this when properly installed.
- Step 7: Insert the new dash bezel by placing the top edge in first, then sliding it up into place.
- Step 8: Secure the new dash bezel by reinstalling the 13 Phillips head screws removed in Step 2.
- Step 9: Your dash should now look like the image.
This concludes Part Three. Please proceed to Part Four.
Part Four: Configuring and Wiring the RadioPRO Interface
Mounting the Aftermarket Radio
Instructions are provided for both Double-DIN and Single-DIN radio installations.
RP4.2-CH4101 Module Layout
The RP4.2-CH4101 module features the following ports and controls:
- Rotary Dial: Not Used
- Radio Select DIP switches: Used to configure the interface for specific radio brands.
- Reset Button: Used to restore factory settings.
- USB Port: For firmware updates or connection of accessories.
- Interface Connector 1: Connects to vehicle harness (e.g., 12V+, Accessory, Ground).
- Interface Connector 4: Connects to vehicle harness (e.g., SWC, Camera Input).
- LCD Display Connector Port: Connects to the 5.2" LCD screen.
- Interface Connector 2: Connects to vehicle CAN bus signals.
- Interface Connector 3 (Non-Amplified Audio Output): For non-amplified audio connections.
- Interface Connector 3 (Amplified Audio Output): For amplified audio connections.
- LED 1 & LED 2: Status indicator lights.
Connectors
Detailed pinout information for each interface connector:
Interface Connector 1 | Color | Function |
---|---|---|
Accessory Output (10A) | Red | |
12V+ | Yellow | |
Ground | Black |
Interface Connector 2 | Color | Function |
---|---|---|
HS-CAN + Input | White / Red | |
HS-CAN - Input | White / Black | |
MS-CAN + Input | Pink | |
MS-CAN - Input | Pink / Black | |
Not Used | Blue / White |
Interface Connector 3 | Color | Function |
---|---|---|
Front L + output | White | |
Front L - output | White / Black | |
Front R + output | Gray | |
Front R - output | Gray / Black | |
Rear L + output | Green | |
Rear L - output | Green / Black | |
Rear R + output | Purple | |
Rear R - output | Purple / Black | |
Ext Speaker Out | Connect to supplied external speaker for parking sensor chimes. |
Interface Connector 4 | Color | Function |
---|---|---|
Rear R + input | Purple | |
Rear R - input | Purple / Black | |
Rear L + input | Green | |
Rear L - input | Green / Black | |
Front R + input | Gray | |
Front R - input | Gray / Black | |
Front L + input | White | |
Front L - input | White / Black | |
SWC Output / Key 1 | Blue / Yellow | |
SWC Output / Key 2 | Brown | |
SWC Output | 3.5 mm Jack | |
Vehicle Speed Sense Output | Pink | |
Parking Brake Output | Light Green | |
Reverse Signal Output | Violet / White | |
Illumination Output | Orange / White | |
Amp Turn On Input | Blue / White | |
Not Used | Blue |
Vehicle Connector 1 | Color | Function |
---|---|---|
Battery +12v | Yellow | |
Ground | Black | |
MS-CAN + | Pink | |
MS-CAN - | Pink / Black | |
HS-CAN + Input | White / Red | |
HS-CAN - Input | White / Black | |
Front L + input | White | |
Front L - input | White / Black | |
Front R + input | Gray | |
Front R - input | Gray / Black | |
Rear L + input | Green | |
Rear L - input | Green / Black | |
Rear R + input | Purple | |
Rear R - input | Purple / Black | |
Reverse Camera | Video from factory reverse camera | |
Cargo Camera / RSE Video | Video from factory cargo camera | |
RSE Audio | Not Used | |
OEM AUX Audio | Audio from factory Auxiliary Input Jack |
Reverse Camera Retention Harness | Color | Function |
---|---|---|
Aftermarket Camera Acc 12v+ Output (800 mA) | Red | |
Aftermarket Camera Ground Output | Black | |
Camera Out To Aftermarket Radio | Yellow Composite Male | |
Camera In From Vehicle Connector | Yellow Composite Female |
DIP Switches
Set the DIP switches on the interface according to your aftermarket radio brand. Set the corresponding switches to the ON (DOWN) position and all others to OFF (UP).
DIP Switch | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Radio Brand | |||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ON = DOWN | Alpine | JVC | Kenwood / Lightning Audio | Clarion / Nakamichi / Stinger | 2-Wire Resistive | Pioneer / Other* | Sony | Fusion |
1 | 2 | 1 & 2 | 3 | 2 & 3 | 1, 2, & 3 | 4 | 1 & 4 |
*Other brands include Dual / Axxera, Jensen, Rockford Fosgate.
Important: Adjust the radio select DIP switches before connecting the interface to the vehicle.
Wiring Connections
- Set the DIP Switches on the interface according to the chart on page 10.
- Wire the aftermarket radio harness according to the wiring connection charts for Interface Connector 1 and Interface Connector 4 on page 10.
- Connect Interface Connectors 1, 2, and 4 to the RP4.2-CH4101 module.
- Connect Interface Connector 3 to either the amplified or non-amplified audio output connector, depending on your setup.
- Connect one end of the supplied LCD Display connector into the Expansion Port on the RP4.2-CH4101. Route the other end to be accessible after the factory dash panel is re-installed.
- If installing in a truck with factory parking sensors and no factory amplifier (or if bypassing the factory amp), connect the supplied external chime speaker to the external speaker output on Interface Connector 3. Mount it where parking sensor chimes can be heard clearly.
- Connect the SWC output wire to the aftermarket radio's wired remote input.
- Once all connections are made, plug the vehicle connectors into the vehicle harness.
- Reverse Camera Connection (See Fig. 2):
- a. Connect the included RPA-16P1V harness to the 16-pin connector (Connector 3) on the back of the radio dash bezel (See Fig. 1).
- b. Connect the Male Yellow RCA (Video Output) from the RPA-16P1V harness to the aftermarket radio's reverse camera input.
- c. Connect the Female Yellow RCA (Video Input) from the RPA-16P1V harness to the Male Yellow RCA from the vehicle connector 1 (factory reverse camera), or to the aftermarket reverse camera's RCA video output.
- d. Connect the red and black power wires from the RPA-16P1V to the aftermarket reverse camera's power wires. If using a factory camera, insulate these wires.
- e. To Add Additional Cameras (Front, Blind Spot, Cargo, etc.): Use the RPA-16P5V (sold separately) instead of the RPA-16P1V harness. See the next page for details.
- Re-install the factory dash panel. Connect the factory plugs from the vehicle into the appropriate connectors on the back of the dash panel.
- Connect the free end of the LCD Display connector into the outermost 10-pin connector (Connector 1) on the back of the radio dash bezel (See Fig. 1).
- If retaining or installing cameras, connect the RPA-16Pxx harness into Connector 3 on the back of the radio dash bezel (See Fig. 1).
- Optional: For easy firmware updates without accessing the Climate Control display, connect a USB extension cable (PAC part USBDMA3, sold separately) to the USB port (Connector 4) on the back of the radio dash bezel and route it to an accessible location (e.g., glove box).
- Once the dash bezel is connected, the LEDs for the hard buttons will illuminate momentarily, then flash, indicating initialization. They will then turn off, and the RadioPRO splash screen will appear on the LCD. Initialization can take up to 2 minutes. Once the LCD is active, proceed to the setup and testing section.
Using Multiple Cameras
With the optional RPA-16P5V harness, the RPK4-CH4101 supports up to 5 cameras. This harness replaces the RPA-16P1V. Camera 1 is reserved for the reverse camera; inputs 2, 3, 4, and 5 can be configured for other cameras. Camera input and control are managed via the LCD display's settings menu. Power and ground connections are active when the vehicle is on, supporting up to 800mA total for aftermarket cameras. For higher power needs, use an external relay. See page 13 for setup.
Setup and Testing
Verify that all screens and functions operate correctly through the 5.2" display.
Display Screens
- Options Screen: Includes Vehicle Settings, Display, Buttons, and About.
- Climate Control Screen: Displays temperature, fan speed, and other climate functions. (Dual Zone Climate shown; exact appearance may vary.)
- Camera Control Screen: Allows selection of Reverse, Front, Left, Right, and Bed cameras.
- Information Screen: Displays vehicle status like gear selection (P, R, N, D) and tire pressure.
- Vehicle Gauges 1 & 2: Displays performance metrics like RPM, speed, and acceleration/braking times (if available).
Entering Installation Settings
Press and hold the Vehicle Settings icon on the Options screen to enter the Installation Settings menu.
- Available menu options include: Cameras, Factory Amplifier, SWI, Update, Installer.
Camera Setup
The camera settings menu allows configuration of installed cameras. With the RPA-16P5V harness, you can switch between up to 5 camera images via the aftermarket radio. Camera 1 is fixed as the Rear Camera. Camera inputs 2, 3, 4, and 5 can be set to "None" or specific camera types (Front, Left, Right, Bed, Nanny, Trailer variations, Other).
- From the Installer Settings menu, open Camera Settings.
- Touch the desired camera input (2, 3, 4, or 5) to activate it. The radio will display the image from that input.
- Select the icon that matches the desired camera type from the options shown. Repeat for each camera.
- Verify that the camera inputs are set up correctly. Exit by pressing the back button until you reach the Options screen.
To activate cameras on the screen: Swipe left to the Camera Control screen. Verify new camera icons appear and activate when touched.
Setting Automatic Camera Triggers (Front, Left, and Right Cameras Only)
- Open Camera Settings.
- Select the desired camera (e.g., Camera 2 - Front).
- Select the camera trigger. Options include:
- Front Camera Triggers: Auto Turn On Into Drive (stays on for 30s or until speed threshold), Steering Wheel Angle Mode, Speed Threshold, Steering Wheel Angle Threshold, Auto Turn On Into Drive Max Time.
- Left and Right Camera Triggers: Operation modes (Off, On, Double Tap, Moving Over X MPH) and Speed Triggers (Above 10, 20, 30, 40 MPH).
Steering Wheel Controls (SWC)
The interface is pre-programmed with factory SWC functions. Programming is only required to re-assign functions or use short press/long press commands.
- Pre-programmed Functions: A table lists default SWC functions for various radio brands (Alpine, JVC, Kenwood, Clarion, Pioneer, Sony, Fusion).
- Note for 2-Wire Resistive Radios: These radios do not have default programming and cannot be custom programmed via the RPK4-CH4101. Refer to the radio's manual.
- Custom SWC Programming Example: To set the "Track Up" button for a quick press (Track Up) and a long press (Preset Up):
- Open SWI Settings.
- Touch the "Track Up Long Press" function labeled "Not Assigned".
- Scroll to find and select "Preset Up".
- Custom SWC Programming Tips: Each SWC function can only be used once. Reassigning a function may change the original button's function to "Not Assigned".
Audio Adjustments
If your truck has a factory amplifier or parking sensors, the 5.2" display allows adjustment of amplifier settings or parking sensor chime volume.
- Amplifier Audio Settings: Access via "Open Factory Amplifier Settings". Adjust Gain, Mid, Treble, Fade, and Real Time Fade.
- Chime Volume Adjustment: Access via "Open Advanced Settings" (Factory Amplified or Non-Amplified). Adjust Chime Volume.
Testing
To test functionality, start with the ignition off and driver's door open:
- Turn the ignition ON. The interface LED and +12v accessory wire should activate.
- Turn on the radio and check volume, balance, and fade.
- Low/High Volume: Verify Interface Connector 3 is connected to the correct output (amplified or non-amplified). For factory amplified systems, use the RPK4-CH4101 settings menu for amp gain adjustment.
- Verify all SWC functions operate correctly (see pages 15-16).
- Verify all vehicle functions are present on the 5.2" LCD display:
- Climate Controls
- Sound Settings (if applicable)
- SWI Settings (if DIP switches are set correctly)
- Vehicle Settings
- Information Screen
- Vehicle Gauges
- Camera Control
- If a function is missing: Reset the RP4.2-CH4101 (see page 19). If still missing, disconnect and reconnect the 5.2" LCD Display Connector while the vehicle is running.
Troubleshooting
- Dual Zone Climate Displaying Single Zone: Disconnect and reconnect the RP4.2-CH4101 Display Connector while the vehicle is running.
- Climate Control Fan Speed Low/Unresponsive: Perform a "sleep cycle": turn off the truck, close all doors, lock with keyfob, and wait 5 minutes before restarting.
- Vehicle Function Not Present: Reset the RP4.2-CH4101 (page 19). If still absent, disconnect/reconnect the LCD Display Connector while the vehicle is running.
- Steering Wheel Controls Inoperable: Verify DIP switch settings on page 10.
- Reverse Camera Inoperable: Review reverse camera wiring steps on pages 11 and 12.
LED Status Indicators:
LED Pattern | State | Action |
---|---|---|
LED 2 solid red | Vehicle RAP / ACC output is on | N/A |
LED 2 flashing green | SWC Activity | N/A |
LED 2 flashing red | Module Resetting / Initializing | N/A |
LED 1 solid green | Module Powered and Operating | N/A |
LED 1 flashing amber | USB connected | N/A |
Off | No Activity | Verify ignition is ON. Check for 12V on Yellow wire and Ground on Black wires. |
Product Updates (Firmware)
Firmware for the RP4.2-CH4101 interface and the 5.2" LCD screen can be updated. Visit www.PAC-audio.com/firmware for available updates.
To update firmware:
- Open the Radio PRO PC app.
- Connect the interface to your PC.
- Select "Firmware" then "Update Firmware".
- Select "Select File" and browse to the downloaded firmware file.
- Select the file to begin the update process.
- Once complete, disconnect the interface from the PC and test operation.
Reset / Restoring Interface Factory Settings
To restore factory default settings, press and hold the programming button on the module until the status LED blinks red. Release the button while it is blinking red. This action will reset all settings.
Technical Support
- Email: support@PAC-audio.com
- Phone: 866-931-8021
- International: 727-592-5991