Calpod AC remote switch mod

[Calpod]

This is a modification I made to my first Insight on July 2009 and it has worked flawlessly for almost 3 years, I only did it because I was tired of pressing the on/off switch so many times and by mounting a remote switch it allows you to shift and operate the switch at the same time.

Before I go into the modifications I'd like to point out the benefits, you can have cool air on demand because this is set up as a momentary switch, this means that you have to hold the switch in order for the AC to work, the advantage is that you can do it while you're slowing down, which is free energy, instead of using the brakes you only use the AC to slow you down and you have a choice, either charge your batteries or AC OR both. you have full control

In order to do this modification you will have to remove the radio, most of us have at one time or another done this so I won't go into the details.

Once the radio has been removed you can reach and unplug the connector for the AC unit, it is behind the AC unit control, between the rotary temperature switch and the Auto button, you can feel it, just be careful when you pull it off.

after you remove the connector look for pin #17, this is a red and white wire (see pictures) you will have to tap on this wire, on my first Insight I soldered it, it's very tight and there is hardly any room, on my second Insight I used a wire tap, it was much easier and it seems to be working fine. this wire you will run it thru a normally open push button switch (which you can install any place is convenient to you), the other end should go to ground.... That's it!!!

I installed mine on the shifter so I can press it even while I'm downshifting, you shouldn't see any significant mileage drop and even reduce brake wear as you will find that you'll be using it a lot more instead of using the brakes.

I did not take any pictures during the install, but when I pick up my next Insight in a few weeks I'll take pictures and post it.

Note that if you decide to make this modification it will be at your own risk, it has worked for me so I don't see any reason why it should not work for you, there may be a better way to get this done, but this was the easiest and it's working fine.

Have a try and enjoy your AC without the mileage penalty.

[jeff652]

Nice. I might try this one.

Thanks

[madmanmostafa]

That's a clever trick. I just press the button, but I like the idea of just using a quick temp switch where your hand is going to be anyway when you're shifting. But I've been using the AC when decelerating or going down a hill where it's not going to rob me of considerable power or mileage

[Calpod]

Originally Posted by madmanmostafa

That's a clever trick. I just press the button, but I like the idea of just using a quick temp switch where your hand is going to be anyway when you're shifting. But I've been using the AC when decelerating or going down a hill where it's not going to rob me of considerable power or mileage

Before I installed the button I always used the AC button, but the disadvantage is that you have to click twice, and sometimes I would forget to turn it off while at a light, but you notice it right away when the engine feels gutless.

You can also add more than 1 button to suit your needs (or your passenger's)

[TopFuelTim]

I like the idea. I am preparing to do the Calpod mod anyway to my "new" Insight in a couple of weeks. When I get ready to exchange the stereo, that will be a prime time to do the A/C mod. But wait a minute. Where would I find any hills in North Georgia? : )

Thank you!

Tim

[Calpod]

Go to Gainesville LOL..... The advantage of the button is that you only need to press it for a few seconds and that's enough to give you cold air "On demand" or when your instant MPG is higher than 100. The most benefit I find is when you get stopped by a light, you press it all the way until it goes to autostop, and while you're at the light you still have cold air, depending on the length of the light the air may still be coming cold when you take off.

[Calpod]

I'm planning to do this mod on another Insight in a couple of weeks, I should be able to post pics then....

[Willie Williford]

Calpod:
Here is one I did last month. It works like a charm.
The ability to do a RECAL while in motion, (clear the IMA light/CEL) without having to leave the drivers seat. As long as I can coast for 15 seconds.
I'm getting to old (71) to crawl under the dash, or open the hood and disconnect either the 30A/#16 fuse or take off the negative cable to the battery. (I've just about worn out the battery clamp/bolt.)

HTH
Willie

[Rush]

Willie, did you splice a switch into the fuse leads under the dash?

[azaviator]

Originally Posted by Willie Williford

Calpod:
Here is one I did last month. It works like a charm.
The ability to do a RECAL while in motion, (clear the IMA light/CEL) without having to leave the drivers seat. As long as I can coast for 15 seconds.
I'm getting to old (71) to crawl under the dash, or open the hood and disconnect either the 30A/#16 fuse or take off the negative cable to the battery. (I've just about worn out the battery clamp/bolt.)

HTH
Willie

Originally Posted by Rush

Willie, did you splice a switch into the fuse leads under the dash?

Please Willie, give more detail. I'm having the exact same problem and have been looking for a solution so I don't have to get out and pop the hood every week or so. A way to reset the IMA light from in the cabin would be ideal.