Opinions Needed Re: Valentine 1 Hidden Installation

[RoNSX]

I see that a lot of people who don't want to have their V1 stuck to their windshields have come up with a number of creative ways to "hide" their radar detectors. The most frequently discussed method is to mount the V1 on a bracket between the seats.

I am contemplating moving outside the passenger compartment and on top of the engine cover.

In looking at the layout, the height appears to be perfect so that I could receive clear line-of-sight radar/laser signals from both front and back. The unit could possibly be secured in placement by velcro on to the targa holder. The unit is small enough so that it doesn't obstruct my view through the rearview mirror. Placing the V1 there is no way limits my range of motion of the engine/targa cover. My primary concern is heat. The max operating temperature for the V1 is 158 degrees F. I know my targa gets hot back there, but I don't think it gets that hot.

Anyone try this, or know someone who did?

Any thoughts, suggestions, opinions?

 

[LJSB]

I have it in the cabin at the rear window between the headrests with a remote volume control to the left of my seat and the display on my dash behind the registration sticker.
I have no problems with the rear reception.
By the way, when the laser alarm goes off it's probaly too late regardless of where you mount it.

 

[myf16]

Under-glass BBQ, anyone?

Before choosing to mount the V1 between the seats, I measured the temp there with a meat thermometer. With the car moving, the temp was fine (120 or so max), but parked in direct sun I saw the temp go as high as 170. Not good.

 

[LJSB]

Are these the readings taken between the headrests in the passenger's compartment? You must mean over the engine aimed toward the front through the glass between the headrests.

Duh- after looking at your subject line it becomes quite obvious what you meant.
Nevermind..............

 

[myf16]

Yes, the temps were over the engine cover under the rear glass.

 

[PorknBeanz]

If the 170 degrees is air temperature, then inside the box will be even hotter. Usually if a manufacturer specifies a max air temperature, it will not account for an additional radiant source (the sun) raising the box's surface temperature above the ambient air. It may work, but it will probably have a short life. You also might get a lot more false warnings beacause of all those heat-excited electrons bouncing around inside the box.

 

[myf16]

I used a meat thermometer, so it was the temp of a metal object (though not black) absorbing sunlight.