New C5 Vette System Install

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Mar 9, 2005 | 04:44 PM

PhoenixCIS

Thread Starter

Instructor

Joined: Jul 2002

Posts: 217

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From: Dallas Texas

New C5 Vette System Install

So I have ordered the following:

Alpine CDA-9833
CDT CL61a
JL Audio 10W6V2
Phoenix Gold Xenon 100.2
Phoenix Gold Xenon 400.1
Rockford Fosgate 4 Guage Multi-Amp Wiring Kit

So, what else do I need (outside of wiring harness and h/u mounting bracket)? Any suggestions on where to mount the amps? Any general knowledge anyone would like to share before I start the install? I will be building my own speaker box (which is better, MDF or Plywood?). I will also be building my own speaker mounts. I have searched this forum for as much info as I can, but I figured I would ask now that I have everything here (or on its way)

Thanks in advance!

-Brian

Mar 9, 2005 | 04:58 PM

scott_fx

Le Mans Master

Joined: Jun 2004

Posts: 5,572

Likes: 4

From: Los Angeles Ca

i'd say mdf but if you want to save some weight go with birch plywood.

I'd also pick up the panel removal tool for $5 so that you dont break anything.

multimeter is a must since you'll have to tap into another mire harness to get an acc. lead.

Mar 9, 2005 | 10:19 PM

Vate

Racer

Joined: Feb 2004

Posts: 316

Likes: 140

From: Metro Atlanta GA

Drop an email to crxguyQQQ@mindspring.com and I'll send you speaker box plans for the rear storage area if you are interested. (take out the Q's).

Mar 10, 2005 | 08:21 AM

Ebein

Instructor

Joined: Mar 2004

Posts: 134

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From: Raleigh NC

Quote:

Originally Posted by PhoenixCIS

Im not familiar with those amp specs but if your running around 500w+
your going to need a cap or your lights are going to be flickering.

As for amp mounting if they will fit side by side between the rear
speakers is where ive seen most multi-amp set ups. If they wont
( like mine ) you can mount one between the rear speakers and
one against the rear center cargo wall over the larger storage compartment.

It seems everyone uses MDF, its a very strong material. Plywood
tends to split if you are put screws in the edges, where MDF usually
wont.

Last edited by Ebein; Mar 10, 2005 at 08:23 AM.

Mar 10, 2005 | 09:41 AM

knewblewkorvette

Race Director

Joined: May 2003

Posts: 14,137

Likes: 2,984

From: Iowa

St. Jude Donor '03 thru '26

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ebein

Im not familiar with those amp specs but if your running around 500w+
your going to need a cap or your lights are going to be flickering.

I would have to disagree just on this point. The C5 has a good stock altenator compared to most cars. As long as you used 4-guage (or larger) wire you should be fine.

Mar 11, 2005 | 12:57 AM

dan_ltdbrands

Heel & Toe

Joined: Dec 2004

Posts: 20

Likes: 0

From: Folsom Ca

Quote:

Originally Posted by knewblewkorvette

I would have to disagree just on this point. The C5 has a good stock altenator compared to most cars. As long as you used 4-guage (or larger) wire you should be fine.

I have two amps, Audiobahn-65x4 and a JL 500x1 with two sets of tweeters, a compenent set, and a 12 JLW6V2. My lights do dimm a little when the sub hits but you don't really notice unless you are looking for that. If you are going to do anything I would suggest upgrading the stock ground from the battery to at least a two gauge. And if you want to go all out, you could even upgrade the alternator too! That, however is a little costly. At the least though, definately upgrade the grounds.

Mar 11, 2005 | 08:29 AM

EatRice

Melting Slicks

Joined: Sep 2003

Posts: 3,306

Likes: 2

From: Wesley Chapel Fl

You should upgrade the grounds and the positive from the alternator to the battery before anything else. Also having a solid fresh battery will help...something like an Optima red top.

As mentioned about MDF and plywood. Birch plywood is lighter and stronger but costs twice as much and is harder to shape. MDF does an excellent job but is heavy. BOTH will split without the proper fastening technique. That would predrill and then screw or use a staple gun. With either material make sure to use wood glue on all the seams.

Mar 11, 2005 | 01:47 PM

leolufse

Melting Slicks

Joined: Jan 2002

Posts: 2,682

Likes: 0

From: Atlanta GA

Quote:

Originally Posted by EatRice

You should upgrade the grounds and the positive from the alternator to the battery before anything else. Also having a solid fresh battery will help...something like an Optima red top.

Check out the "big 3" upgrade in the tech tips section of this forum.