can this be done? - installing the front separate to the radio unit

Due the a lack of space where I want to put the radio I have had a
"bright" idea.

I want to install the front from a "face off" stereo remotely from the
actual unit itself.

Looking at the back of most units they seem to have 8 gold connectors
and this appears to be all that links the face to the unit. If I make
up a cable to connect each of these contacts on the unit to the
corresponding contact on the face will it all still work?

Has anyone heard of this being done?

I am aware that unless I can do some fairly fancy work I will probably
not be able to still use the CD section of the unit and will have to
use an auto changer but it will still be worth it (unless of course
anyone has any suggestions as to how I will still be able to use the
in "dash" CD slot.

Thanks in advance

Miles