Continuing from the last post, we’ll wrap up the basics of installing an amplifier into your car.
- When you decide on where to set you amplifier, you will want to try to find a screw or piece of metal you can use as a ground. Ideally this piece of metal will be linked to the car frame and close to the amp. In either case, use a little sandpaper to grind off any dirt and paint. You want your ground connection to be a clean metal contact.
- Remove your stereo head unit from the dashboard and connect the signal and remote wires. Run the corresponding connections back to the amplifier unit.
- Next you need to run the 16 gauge wires from each of your speakers and connect them to the amplifier. Be mindful of which wires go to which speaker. Label them to help you keep track. You may have to change the connection ends on the wires by installing crimp on connectors.
- When working with the wires, only cut off as much as is needed. And when crimping on new connectors, don’t leave any exposed wire. It is sloppy work and can cause a short.
- When you have all of your wires connected, you can test out your system. Reconnect the negative battery cable to the negative terminal. Test that each connected speaker is outputting sound.
- If your amplifier needs to be secured, strap it or bolt it to its resting place.
- If everything is working fine, you can begin to put your car back together. Reinstall the speakers into their areas. Restore the stereo head unit and other dashboard pieces. And whatever else you had to remove to get the job done.
Again this is just a very general overview, check with your local stereo installers and car manufacturers to see the proper methods for installing an amplifier into your car.