Thinking of installing own system. Any tips?

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AaronLG

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The guy wants to charge $300 for a box and install of an amp and sub. I have the sub and amp but not sure I want to tackle it on my own. I've done tons of home audio stuff just not in cars. Should I do it or just let the guy do it and he said I can help and then I'll be ready to do it on my own next time.
 

Canadian Expy

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read up on some forums it's not hard, there probaly even people here that could help. Make sure you read up first !!! and you feel comfortable
 

Knautical2001

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It is pretty simple, but there are a lot of things you need to know about. Especially fuses, DON'T forget fuses. LOL (Otherwise your truck will go up in smoke like mine did). LOL I agree with Canadian, read up. :D
 

GAINMOB

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$300...normally $100 just for install...is he building the box or is it prefab? what size sub?
 

walnuts4x4

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get a box from ebay along with a complete wiring kit.... very simple to install... hell my wife has helped install mine... she could probably do 90% without any help so it is very easy to do.... and save you some cash
 
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AaronLG

AaronLG

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It's a custom made box and one Digital Design 3500 series 12in and a 1000 watt crossfire amp. $300 includes custom box and all the wires.
 
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TexasAngel34

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i would say read up and do it on your own, should not cost that much. its easy to do, i help my roommate alot with stereo installs... main thing is knowing what to do... just my 2 cents...
 
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$300 bucks for a custom box, wiring, and install isn't all that bad. But I guarantee that you will find much enjoyment on building up and installing your own system. It can be a headache at some points, but overall pretty easy. Just make sure you do it the right way. Get on Amazon and get the Car Audio for Dummies book for like $20. You won't be disappointed with that at all. It helps with lots of things for inexperienced installers and has some pretty cool tricks to make an awesome system for little. Just be confident.
 
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AaronLG

AaronLG

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Thanks for the tips. I'm going to let him do it and he offered to let me help. Hopefully he may charge a little less. But then again he may charge more if I'm just in the way. lol.
 

GAINMOB

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they normally take off a lot or charge half of quoted price...i dont have the tools but i'd love to design/build my own box...getting 2 boxes drawn up with plexi right now...whoever is cheaper and best work will get my business
 

FormerStangFan

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Please don't take this the wrong way because I mean it as positive input. As far as building a custom box, if it is your first attempt or don't have a clear understanding as to what your particular woofer requires out of the box have it build or have somebody help. It is relatively easy once you see it done. That said, as far as the install into the actual truck it is very straight forward and there are a few different configurations you could come up with as far as running wire. IMO the difficult part here is just simply being careful not to destroy your interior panels/carpet/seats. Basically be gentle. I think you have a great opportunity if your installer is willing to let you help as these professionals usually have a lot of tips and tricks to teach if they are willing to let there secrets out. One thing I can't stress enough, PAY ATTENTION TO AMP TUNING. Pick your installers brain as much as possible on this. It really isn't as simple as turn it up until it sounds ok. GAIN is NOT VOLUME. Anyhow, I've rambled enough. Good luck with the install and can't wait to see some pics.

PS. 300 for custom box and install is a great deal
 

bnegaard

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All: if you want to learn more about speaker building go to www.partsexpress.com. They have great advice and books on building real speakers. You can wing it and come out ok but speaker design is a science. Box size and ports are not a guess. They are calculated based on the speakers being used. There are quite a few sound professionals that ost on the site and will calculate your speaker requirements if you ask.

Crutchfield.com is another good place to get advice. If you buy a car stereo from them they will throw in installation instructions and install kit including wiring adapter. Thats worth 20+ by itself. They know what they are talking about and can help you design a system or figure out which components you need. Both sites have great prices.
 
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AaronLG

AaronLG

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Turned out great!! Very basic but it works awesome. Working on a few other things and will post all the stuff at the same time.
 

911jason

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Glad to hear it... I love the way your Expy looks with those dark rims and tint. Doesn't look almost 15 years old!

So did he let you help? Did you learn anything? Going to do it yourself next time?
 
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AaronLG

AaronLG

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I had to drop it off but got back in time to help him finish it up. Already had box made so I didn't get to do anything with that. Think I am probably going to add the other sub I have and I might do that on my own.
 

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