Where does one go to buy electronic accessories such as navigation systems, dvd, etc. for their rig? Preferably national chains, wholesalers, or distributors...

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Many truck dealers will install that type of stuff and some big truck specialty shops will do that as well. I don't know if everyone does it, but I know a guy who used to work for CarToys and several other large chain stores and he installed systems in all sorts of stuff from trucks to wheel loaders.

I would say it really depends on what you are doing/wanting. Many of the same gadgets for normal auto work in trucks as well. The main exception to that would be NAV I guess. Where most car gps isn't going to be truck specific, not much you can do about that other than get one of the newer truck gps's, but it won't be an in-dash deal. As far as just radio, I put an in-dash dvd/gps/touch screen player in mine instead of the factory stuff. It's real simple most of the time. I don't use the gps (I have a laptop for that) so I just like the features, and one day I'm going to get around to running cables to the back for a tv to play movies without a standalone dvd player.

I would think you need to be more specific about what you want to do. Then we can make suggestions. I'm sure there are some car audio/video installers that'll do trucks too if you don't want to DIY. I don't think the dealers will get into much custom type stuff.

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2001 FLT Columbia, 500hp C-15 CAT, 13-spd Eaton, 24.5LP w/3.73 rears

I'm working on a new electronic device for semi trucks. Unfortunately, I can't be more specific at this point because I'm bound by an NDA. I'm doing some preliminary market research to determine the best channels for distribution and I want to hear it straight from a trucker.

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How about radios? Where do you usually go to buy a CB for your rig? A consumer electronics store like Radio Shack or a specialized b2b retailer?

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Yeah, walcott is one I'd consider if I were in the market for a high-end model. I bought my cobra off ebay if I recall. Lots of guys get them at the truck stops I'm sure, or maybe cb shops. I would imagine it varies. Then there's the online places like iowa80's or others.

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2001 FLT Columbia, 500hp C-15 CAT, 13-spd Eaton, 24.5LP w/3.73 rears

Hi NauticalStar: Your electronic device sounds interesting! Keep us informed, or at least throw us alittle info once in awhile, just to tease us...
Look forward to hearing more... david

Have a individually owned shop that i buy my radio stuff from. He has done outstanding work on radios for me. I imagine he is a few bucks more than the big chains, but money well spent, IMO. Awhile back he moved about 300 miles away, but i still havent found anyone better, so still use him for my radio equip. needs.

I'm thinking if it's a mom & pop operation he is using a distributor or wholesaler instead of getting the items straight from the manufacturer. I could be wrong though... what is the name of the place?

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