Gentex GEN-K31 rearview mirror installed! - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

bmartin9122 · 02-18-2007, 02:15 PM

My OEM mirror was crapping out, so I picked up this Gentex auto-dimming mirror with temp, compass, and map lights from AutoAnything. My 79 K15 was not listed but an 80 model was, so I took a calculated risk. As it turned out, I only had to replace the supplied set-screw to match the style of OEM mirror. (no screw head - just an allen wrench hole) VOILA - It fits perfectly! I used aluminum tape to hold the wiring until the headliner and trim can be installed to cover it:

Here is a side perspective, which shows the "optional" wire cover. In my opinion, this is not optional:

Here is a bottom perspective, which shows one of the map lights turned on. As you can see, the light is a mixture of 2 colors:

Here are a couple more pics showing the temp sensor placement. The kit comes with wire ties and flex loom:

**N2TRUX** · 02-18-2007, 04:12 PM

Cool mirror. I love the versions that I have become used to in my late model GM trucks...

bmartin9122 · 02-18-2007, 04:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by N2TRUX

Cool mirror. I love the versions that I have become used to in my late model GM trucks...

Thanks! Gentex seems to have a lock on the market with their patented auto-dimming mirrors. My 06 Dodge Magnum has a similar mirror sans the map lights, but it has bluetooth (button and microphone) integrated into the car's computer.

84 400 · 02-18-2007, 04:31 PM

neat. we have a similar mirror on our 2000 tahoe. realy nice to have the temp sensor does yours have a compass function too?

bmartin9122 · 02-18-2007, 04:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 84 400

neat. we have a similar mirror on our 2000 tahoe. realy nice to have the temp sensor does yours have a compass function too?

Sure does. Visit the Gentex website link above.... You will be shocked (I know I was) to see all of the different combinations of features available.

Restrorob · 02-18-2007, 05:25 PM

The mirror looks good, But what's your plans for covering the unsightly wires and silver tape ?

boxrodz · 02-18-2007, 05:50 PM

Cool 'modern' mod.

bigblock73 · 02-18-2007, 05:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Restrorob

The mirror looks good, But what's your plans for covering the unsightly wires and silver tape ?

Headliner and trim will cover it...as stated in the first post.

Sweet mirror and mod, I like it!

bmartin9122 · 02-18-2007, 07:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Restrorob

The mirror looks good, But what's your plans for covering the unsightly wires and silver tape ?

It is tempting to look at the pics only and comment. I had already pulled the headliner and trim, so I could run the Sirius antenna wire. You can see it routed down the passenger A-pillar. The headliner is being replaced, as well. The cargo light has already been replaced.

I am taking a top-down approach to restoring the interior - more or less.

Restrorob · 02-18-2007, 08:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bmartin9122

It is tempting to look at the pics only and comment.

Sorry bmartin, I did read it but guess that part didn't soak in....

Old age !!!

bmartin9122 · 02-18-2007, 08:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Restrorob

Sorry bmartin, I did read it but guess that part didn't soak in....

Old age !!!

No worries!

boatpuller · 02-18-2007, 08:48 PM

that is a sweet mod........where's my list?

Hoods69BadBowTie · 02-19-2007, 12:58 AM

Thats cool, looks good.

boxrodz · 02-19-2007, 02:09 AM

Hey, bmartin -
Did you take any pics from the front of the truck? If not, how does it look from the outside?

Russell · 02-19-2007, 02:13 AM

That thing is way cool! How much did it set you back?

I've gotta replace the windsheild in my GMC, and there definitely isn't any point in putting the loose stocker back in when I can put in something with a temp gauge, compass, and auto-dimming...

bmartin9122 · 02-19-2007, 11:22 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by boxrodz

Hey, bmartin -
Did you take any pics from the front of the truck? If not, how does it look from the outside?

Quite honestly... I didn't take any pics from the front because you cannot hardly tell it is there. It is far enough up into the tinted band that the bulk of it is masked. However, if you are really concerned about this, then I can take another couple of pics to demonstrate this.

bmartin9122 · 02-19-2007, 11:31 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Russell

That thing is way cool! How much did it set you back?

I've gotta replace the windsheild in my GMC, and there definitely isn't any point in putting the loose stocker back in when I can put in something with a temp gauge, compass, and auto-dimming...

I ended up making my purchase through AutoAnything (see link in original post). They often have discounts, coupon codes, free shipping, et cetera, to bring some of the cost down. However, I still paid a little over $200 with the optional wire cover. It was shipped directly from the Mito Corporation.

Keep in mind this auto-dimming mirror is not motorized. It is actually electro-chromatic meaning it works kinda like Transitions eyeglass lenses. The compass and temp actually appear to hover on the mirror at night - they also auto-dim.

bmartin9122 · 02-19-2007, 10:01 PM

I am hoping to get the headliner replaced early next week, so I'll post more pics then.

boxrodz · 02-20-2007, 02:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bmartin9122

Quite honestly... I didn't take any pics from the front because you cannot hardly tell it is there. It is far enough up into the tinted band that the bulk of it is masked. However, if you are really concerned about this, then I can take another couple of pics to demonstrate this.

Thanks for the feedback, bmartin.

No need to snap any pics, unless you get a shot or two from the outside in your next go around.

bmartin9122 · 03-24-2007, 08:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Restrorob

The mirror looks good, But what's your plans for covering the unsightly wires and silver tape ?

Okay, I finally remembered to take some pics of the finished headliner showing the covered wiring. The wires are still visible right at the top of the windshield, but hopefully it isn't too ugly.

bmartin9122 · 03-24-2007, 08:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by boxrodz

Thanks for the feedback, bmartin.

No need to snap any pics, unless you get a shot or two from the outside in your next go around.

As requested, here are a couple of pics:

boxrodz · 03-25-2007, 01:40 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bmartin9122

Okay, I finally remembered to take some pics of the finished headliner showing the covered wiring. The wires are still visible right at the top of the windshield, but hopefully it isn't too ugly.

bmartin -
The headliner looks really good.

Your interior is looking nice.
The exposed wiring don't look unsightly. (But, if you wanted to mask them a bit, maybe you could use something like black heat shrink. But, you would have tear into it again.)

Quote:

Originally Posted by bmartin9122

As requested, here are a couple of pics:

Thanks for the exterior angle shots. You're right. The tint band does cover the wiring/conduit.

77-383 Step · 03-25-2007, 01:52 AM

very cool. nice job

bmartin9122 · 03-25-2007, 02:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by boxrodz

bmartin -
The headliner looks really good.

Your interior is looking nice.
The exposed wiring don't look unsightly. (But, if you wanted to mask them a bit, maybe you could use something like black heat shrink. But, you would have tear into it again.)

I am thinking maybe a very short section of small diameter flex loom might work there.

The interior is definitely a work in progress. I am working on the rear window next. The old slider is a security problem and leaks water when sprayed with a hose or heavy rainfall. Then, I'll move on to each door - vent window delete, power window/lock retrofit, trim panels, tint, weatherstrip replacement, etc.

bmartin9122 · 03-25-2007, 02:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 77-383 Step

very cool. nice job

Thanks. I hope others see my little project and try it on their own trucks.

02-18-2007, 02:15 PM	#1
bmartin9122 Registered User Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Texas Coastal Bend Posts: 169	Gentex GEN-K31 rearview mirror installed! My OEM mirror was crapping out, so I picked up this Gentex auto-dimming mirror with temp, compass, and map lights from AutoAnything. My 79 K15 was not listed but an 80 model was, so I took a calculated risk. As it turned out, I only had to replace the supplied set-screw to match the style of OEM mirror. (no screw head - just an allen wrench hole) VOILA - It fits perfectly! I used aluminum tape to hold the wiring until the headliner and trim can be installed to cover it: Here is a side perspective, which shows the "optional" wire cover. In my opinion, this is not optional: Here is a bottom perspective, which shows one of the map lights turned on. As you can see, the light is a mixture of 2 colors: Here are a couple more pics showing the temp sensor placement. The kit comes with wire ties and flex loom: __________________ 79 GMC Sierra Grande K15 --PPG paint code 62608 Sunburst Orange Metallic (WA802K) --Gentex auto-dimming rearview mirror model K31 --Carriage Works billet grille model 40071 --Go Industries 2.5" tubular stainless headache rack --Sylvania Silverstar sealed headlights model H6024ST --Texas Saddlebags center console model 101 --Brown's Welding class IV V-5 pipe bumper --Ramsey RE8000 winch --33" tires Last edited by bmartin9122; 02-18-2007 at 08:01 PM.

02-18-2007, 04:12 PM	#2
N2TRUX Happy to be here Join Date: Mar 2000 Location: Cypress, TX Posts: 39,021	Re: Gentex GEN-K31 rearview mirror installed! Cool mirror. I love the versions that I have become used to in my late model GM trucks... __________________ Follow me on Facebook and Instagram @N2trux.com Articles- "Jake" the 84 to 74 crewcab "Elwood" the77_Remix 85 GMC Sierra "Scarlett" "Refining Sierra"

02-18-2007, 04:31 PM	#4
84 400 Sb 400 club Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: NH / MA Posts: 2,746	Re: Gentex GEN-K31 rearview mirror installed! neat. we have a similar mirror on our 2000 tahoe. realy nice to have the temp sensor does yours have a compass function too? __________________ 1984 chevy c10, built 400sb,.(SOLD) 77 K10 Project / daily driver "The Grinch" http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=318363 1956 Willys Wagon (327 chevy) Project (Now Buick 225) 1980 Corvette L-48 4 speed 1992 Mustang GT built 5.0 5 speed 1985 C10 LWB Sold 1982 K10 SWB plow truck Parted out 1986 D30 M1028 fire brush truck Parted out

02-18-2007, 05:25 PM	#6
Restrorob The One And Only !!! Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Hole in the woods Florida Posts: 4,567	Re: Gentex GEN-K31 rearview mirror installed! The mirror looks good, But what's your plans for covering the unsightly wires and silver tape ? __________________ 93 Jeep XJ 88 Buick La Sabra Toys; 88 TA-GTA in the works.... 97 GMC Ext. Cab 502 Crate 5 Spd......Sucks Gas But Haulz Azz ! The primary function of an Engineer is to make it difficult for the Fabricator and impossible for the Mechanic. *"Why go out preserved when you can go out beat up, worn out, sliding in sideways screaming, Holy Sh!t What A Ride" !!!*

02-18-2007, 05:50 PM	#7
boxrodz Until Seventy Times Seven Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: Rocky Mountain Front Range Posts: 1,301	Re: Gentex GEN-K31 rearview mirror installed! Cool 'modern' mod. __________________ boxRODz 1983 C10 SWB Fleetside When two halves is gone, there's nuthin left. Two nothings is nuthin. That's mathematics son. You can argue with me but you can't argue with figures. Two half nothings is a whole nuthin...

02-18-2007, 08:48 PM	#12
boatpuller Registered User Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Sun City West, Az Posts: 3,822	Re: Gentex GEN-K31 rearview mirror installed! that is a sweet mod........where's my list?

02-19-2007, 12:58 AM	#13
Hoods69BadBowTie Chevys Kick A$$ Join Date: Jan 2005 Location: Zootown, MT Posts: 12,699	Re: Gentex GEN-K31 rearview mirror installed! Thats cool, looks good. __________________ HOODS is what I answer too -'79, '77, '88 Pickup Sold, '85 Camaro, '83 T/A, '81,'83,'90 K5 Blazer All Sold -'79 3/4 ton "Big Yellow Bananna" Lifted 4spd. 39.5 TSL Swampers, The money Pit -'86 K5 Blazer Silverado 6.2 4" lift 35"s -'95 Ext. Cab Shorty 4" Tuff Country rolling 35" M/T's -'83 Monte Carlo T-Tops. 126,500 Original Miles -LATER I would rather push a Chevy then drive a ford!!

02-19-2007, 02:09 AM	#14
boxrodz Until Seventy Times Seven Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: Rocky Mountain Front Range Posts: 1,301	Re: Gentex GEN-K31 rearview mirror installed! Hey, bmartin - Did you take any pics from the front of the truck? If not, how does it look from the outside? __________________ boxRODz 1983 C10 SWB Fleetside When two halves is gone, there's nuthin left. Two nothings is nuthin. That's mathematics son. You can argue with me but you can't argue with figures. Two half nothings is a whole nuthin...

02-19-2007, 02:13 AM	#15
Russell Professional Grade Join Date: May 2003 Location: Fort McMurray, Alberta Posts: 7,915	Re: Gentex GEN-K31 rearview mirror installed! That thing is way cool! How much did it set you back? I've gotta replace the windsheild in my GMC, and there definitely isn't any point in putting the loose stocker back in when I can put in something with a temp gauge, compass, and auto-dimming... __________________ 1995 Chevrolet 2 Door Tahoe (6.6L LBZ Duramax / ZF6 / NP241 with 1 ton solid axle swap)

02-19-2007, 10:01 PM	#18
bmartin9122 Registered User Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Texas Coastal Bend Posts: 169	Re: Gentex GEN-K31 rearview mirror installed! I am hoping to get the headliner replaced early next week, so I'll post more pics then. __________________ 79 GMC Sierra Grande K15 --PPG paint code 62608 Sunburst Orange Metallic (WA802K) --Gentex auto-dimming rearview mirror model K31 --Carriage Works billet grille model 40071 --Go Industries 2.5" tubular stainless headache rack --Sylvania Silverstar sealed headlights model H6024ST --Texas Saddlebags center console model 101 --Brown's Welding class IV V-5 pipe bumper --Ramsey RE8000 winch --33" tires

03-25-2007, 01:52 AM	#23
77-383 Step Registered User Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Plano, Texas Posts: 78	Re: Gentex GEN-K31 rearview mirror installed! very cool. nice job



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