www.iFourWinns.com

Can I replace the head unit on my boat and still use the remote at the helm to control the new unit? The head unit on the boat we just purchased does not have an aux input on it. It looks like the original stereo from 2001 so this would be before the days of MP3 players and iPods. I want to put a more modern head unit in but also want to keep the ability to control the stereo from the helm. Any ideas?

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'01 Vista 298

Your helm remote is made by ???????

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One of 4 Previous (Sold) Boats:
2000 Four Winns 268 Vista

Current Boat: 2004 Chaparral 235 ssi cuddy

The head unit is Sony and I'm pretty sure the helm remote also is Sony. I probably won't get down there until next weekend to verify.

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'01 Vista 298

Head units and remotes are often paired and vary from year to year even with the same manufacturer. You might have to replace both. When you're at your boat, try and get the specific model number of the remote along with the brand, then do a web search to find compatibility.

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2007 Horizon 200
4.3L GXi/ SX 225 HP

Our helm remote on our 268 was made by Access Technologies, and was not compatible with
the new Sony HU I installed last summer. It came with a hand held remote, and could just use that from
the helm, and it did the same functions as the in dash remote. I re-installed the old Sony HU in the 268
when we sold it, so the helm remote would work for the new owner.
Your Sony dash remote (if you have it) will have to be compatible with SONY RM-X2C and RM-X4S remote control radios .

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One of 4 Previous (Sold) Boats:
2000 Four Winns 268 Vista

Current Boat: 2004 Chaparral 235 ssi cuddy

I checked today....it's Access Technologies.

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'01 Vista 298

So look for a Sony HU that has SONY RM-X2C and RM-X4S capability, and your Access Technologies helm remote will run the new HU. I believe it works with some Pioneer HU's also. Some info here.

http://www.access-tech.net/

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One of 4 Previous (Sold) Boats:
2000 Four Winns 268 Vista

Current Boat: 2004 Chaparral 235 ssi cuddy