What is needed to install new radio headset?

Spawn22 · 07-09-2005, 10:37 PM

DO I need to run all new wires from the stock Bose system to an aftermarket brand head set and speakers?

Bakersfield · 07-10-2005, 01:26 AM

The door speakers have amps built into them. You will probably damage them if you wire them up to the output of the new head unit. If I were you, and this is what I did, spend an extra 100 bucks and replace the door speakers and run new wiring. The stock wires are like 22 gauge and if you are pumping out 30 or more watts to a speaker, you should have 16 gauge minimum. I like to use lamp cord because it combines both leads and the gauge is large enough to handle the power and it is cheap and can be found at a hardware store, and it is sold by the foot. Good luck....

GrayC5 · 07-10-2005, 01:29 AM

The folks over in the Audio/Electronics section of the Forum may be in a better position to help you on this one. Good luck.

RPOZ4Z · 07-10-2005, 10:30 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bakersfield

The door speakers have amps built into them. You will probably damage them if you wire them up to the output of the new head unit.

only the door subs have an amp, the 3 1/2" door speakers do not.

Spawn22 · 07-10-2005, 01:26 PM

So I will have to only replace the door wires with the subs? The rear speakers should be fine with the factory wires for the new speakers?

Bakersfield · 07-10-2005, 09:25 PM

The problem you are going to run into is that the factory speaker wires go into a connector that plugs into the stock stereo. If you go with an after market head unit, you will have to identify the speaker wires that go to this connector and cut them off to connect them to the new head unit. There may be an adapter available, but that will be a little costly. If you are running 45 watts or so to each speaker, the small gauge factory wires are not really big enough to handle the power. That is why stereo shops routinely install new wiring to the speakers. It is not hard to run new wiring, there are several write ups over in the audio section of this forum that explain how to remove door panels, seats, and carpet to allow you to hide the wiring. If you cut corners on your installation, it will cause you many problems down the road. Do it right the first time. Good luck….Dwayne