Transform Your transPod

Here's how the iPod/transPod combo looks in my car.

I've been very happy with its placement and usability. However, the FM transmitter doesn't work effectively in my car, as my FM antenna is on the back fender.

I found that I preferred the sound of a Cassette Adaptor (forgive me...) but that I wanted the convenience of the transPod mounting system.

Time for a visit to Radio Shack...

I found the perfect jack for my purpose. Radio Shack #274-0246 lets a stereo plug inserted in the jack override the signals that would be present if the plug wasn't inserted. My goal was to let the transPod function as an FM transmitter if nothing was plugged into the jack, but to route the audio from the iPod through the jack when a device was plugged in.

This is how to void your warranty!!!

When you break the seal over the upper-right screw, you have voided your warranty! Don't complain to me... this is a home-brew modification for those who are technically inclined.

Remove the four screws from the back of transPod. The front and back covers will separate easily.

When you separate the top and bottom, you'll see a circuit board with two power connectors and a three-wire lead from the iPod audio plug to the circuit board.

Cut the wires from the iPod audio plug near the plug. Using heat-shrink insulation, extend the wires so they can reach to the Radio Shack jack assembly.

Next, solder the wires from the 3-pin white nylon plug to the Radio Shack jack as shown at the right, and above. Then solder the wires from the iPod plug to the appropriate pins on the Radio Shack jack, again referring to the two images and the Radio Shack documentation.

When connected properly, if no plug is in the Radio Shack jack, the transPod will work as normal. When you plug a device into the Radio Shack jack, the iPod audio will be routed to the device instead of the transmitter. You can plug in a cassette adaptor, a Line-Out / Line-In cable, or even a cable to another transmitter located close to your antenna.

This has been a clean, fault-free installation for me. I get the improved audio of the cassette adaptor or Line-In connectors, but have the positioning and power supply provided by the transPod.

...this is much better than returning the transPod!!!