Amplifier power lead extension question due to relocation.

[Number4]

I have a non third row Explorer. I've since added a third row. This change has forced me to relocate my AMP.
Two part question:
A) If you have a third row and an amp, where is the amp located? (not the oe amp)
B) I thought about utilizing the storage compartment as shown in the picture. However, the power cord is not long enough to sufficiently reach. Can I extend the power cord (safely and efficiently) or must I run a new one?

 

[ama4ace]

I replaced the factory subwoofer with a Pioneer subwoofer and also upgraded from the factory subwoofer amp to a pioneer subwoofer amp and installed it under the middle seat of the middle row of seats. Never had a problem.

 

[ama4ace]

BTW I ran a new power cord for the amp from the battery. More Bass will need an upgrade in power cord and ground wires.

 

[Number4]

Thanks ama4ace.

I should clarify that I already have an aftermarket sub and amp. The previous owner had them installed.

My main question is about extending the power cable vs running a new one.

 

[DjDom]

The cable you have can be extended, but I wouldn't recommend it.
Invest the $20 in a new wiring kit and sell off the other one. It's not the safest idea to crimp two low gauge wires together.

 

[toypaseo]

I would be always questioning the quality of the install from a previous owner.

Some things I would be thinking...

• Is the power wire good quality, or junk?
• How old is the wiring?
• Are there areas of damage to the power wire jacket that I cannot see?
• Is this wire labeled 4 gauge (for example), actually not 4 gauge? (I have some 4 gauge power wire that is not 4 gauge, but the thick jacket, and labeling, makes someone think it is)
• How much would new wiring be?

Some things I would be considering...

• Should I just put in new larger gauge wire for future upgrades?
• Coupler? http://www.amazon.com/Stinger-Shoc-Krome-Series-Ground-Coupler/dp/B001H52A9Q

 

[1996BLKBauer]

Don't be cheap, just buy a new length of power wire, it will be safer, and will put you mind at ease. If you join 2 pieces of large gauge wire all you are doing is raising the risk of a short, and possibly adding more resistance, so new wire is always the better option.

 

[Rckslick333]

A couple things,

Depending how how big the gauge is, it is possible that you could extend it, although I dont recommend it because of all the voltage spikes going through that wire.

Also, relocating the amp there may be a bad idea. Depending on the size, amps can get really hot and need room to breath. You may just overheat it in that little nook.

All this is IMO so if someone answers or disagrees with me, make your own judgement

 

[Number4]

Thanks for the input all, I'll run new wire.
Peace of mind is worth a lot.

 

[Number4]

Yeah, I've decided to run new wire, just to be safe. I'm just at a loss on where to put the amp. I now have dual second row seats with a console and a third row. I could install a fan to help vent the compartment.

 

[wbrudi28]

what are the specs on the amp?

I have a monoblock 500w amp, i installed under my passenger seat. it allows for the shortest runs of wire, meaning a lower voltage drop due to lower impedance. it also allows me to simply undo the speaker wires going to the sub box and remove it when i want to flip my third row up (12" ported box, does not fit with third row flipped up)

hope this helps. i also grounded the amp to the seat bolt, very good location. only 4 bolts to remove the seat.

 

[Rckslick333]

what are the specs on the amp?

I have a monoblock 500w amp, i installed under my passenger seat. it allows for the shortest runs of wire, meaning a lower voltage drop due to lower impedance. it also allows me to simply undo the speaker wires going to the sub box and remove it when i want to flip my third row up (12" ported box, does not fit with third row flipped up)

hope this helps. i also grounded the amp to the seat bolt, very good location. only 4 bolts to remove the seat.

I mounted mine to the 2nd row bolt. I mounted mine under my 3rd row seat. Should have my 2 15's tomorrow! Right now im only running a 12.

Good point on the short wire if the amp is small enough to get under the seat!

 

[BrooklynBay]

Both of your threads were merged together. Please keep everything in the same thread in the same section.