C5 stereo install completed (thank to 99HT)
 

After about 13 hours straight, I finished this big project.

I did what most did not do, and that was to retain the original Bose headunit(HU), because a forum member 99HT and the shop manual indicated there are 'hidden' low level outputs, that we figured would work with an aftermarket amp. I decided to undertake this and just finished the project.

Part used:
2 JBL 5.5" 2 ways (~$100)
1 12" Pyle Sub 600W peak ($75)
1 Pyramid 4ch amp 250w RMS (1000W peak) ($220)
Wires,RCA's,fuses,speaker wire etc... ($120)
Total ~$530 spent

The original sound was ok, but the rear speakers were so bad, that the fader would reduce the fronts and or make them rattle. Bose rear speakers are a joke. I replaced those with the JBL's. It was 2 hours work to make those fit.

12" sub went into the rear hatch cover with cd changer still in place. No reinforcement of sub was required, as I decided I would experiment. It fits
great!

Amp was mounted against rear hatch wall. Wires run inside carpet.

After the install was finshed, I turned on the car and tried the FM first. Tried some Rock station and man of man the BASS hit so hard my hair moved around. Tried HIP HOP/DANCE and everything loose in the car jumped around. I could really hear the highs and the mid range much more clearly than before. In fact with the stock fronts I had to adjust with the fader so I could hear the front speakers now! I went for a test drive and found out there's no noise whatsoever!!! In fact I could not hear the engine anymore and it ended up a whole new experience for me!

So, I think I'm the first to test this out, and although HT99 mentioned it's doable, I think no one actually tried it. Well it works, and man it rocks!!

I submitted photos of the install, but the photos of the final finished product will have to wait till morning light.

https://www.corvetteforum.net/c5/spe...r/Im000445.jpg
https://www.corvetteforum.net/c5/spe...r/Im000443.jpg

http://www.corvetteforum.net/c5/speedracer/diagram.gif
http://www.corvetteforum.net/c5/speedracer/Im000437.jpg
http://www.corvetteforum.net/c5/speedracer/Im000436.jpg
http://www.corvetteforum.net/c5/speedracer/Im000439.jpg
http://www.corvetteforum.net/c5/speedracer/Im000444.jpg
http://www.corvetteforum.net/c5/speedracer/Im000446.jpg
http://www.corvetteforum.net/c5/speedracer/Im000442.jpg
http://www.corvetteforum.net/c5/speedracer/Im000440.jpg

Speed-Racer
:bigears :bigears

Re: C5 stereo install completed (Speed-Racer)
 

Thanks for all your support! - I'm adding this addendum to my install due to the overwhelming requests...

(I've had sooo many emails, my box got flooded!)

Well here are your requests on how to modify the existing stereo for a sub and amp.

BTW - when you solder, splice into existing C4 connector wires by exposing them with a sharp knife and soldering in. Cover with tape WELL.

Because the RCA leads are so thin, I found it easier to attach a normal piece of wire to the RCA wires and attach that wire to the harness. The normal piece of wire is thicker than the RCA wires so it makes it easier to work without breaking it.

(Btw - the blue wire is common/ground in the last diagram)

enjoy
Speed-Racer

https://www.corvetteforum.net/c5/spe..._connector.gif
https://www.corvetteforum.net/c5/spe...r/Im000455.jpg
https://www.corvetteforum.net/c5/spe...r/Im000451.jpg

Re: C5 stereo install completed (Speed-Racer)
 

I am now adding the amp cover and the sub cover this weekend. The map cover is made of wood and will be covered with similar material to the stock carpet so it will look real clean!

George