How to do an install

[iugoodfella]

Ok so as most of yopu prob know, Im contemplating ideas for my system for my 2002. Now, I realize I want to spend around 1500-2000 (or around there) total for a dvd player, lcd, amps and subs. Im prob gonna go for an alpine or pioneer dvd and lcd and really dont know which amps or subs I should get, I probably want 2 12s or 10s. Obviously I am willing to spend some bucks to make sure Ill be able to get what I want but also I wont overpay.

So, keeping that in mind, I do not feel like spending even more for labor because I would love to be able to say I installed my own audio equipment and system. I want my install to be clean and look perfect. So what past posts or websites or even plain advice from those of you who have done your own system installs should I check out. I HAVE NO CLUE where to start and Im not really familiar on a lot of the lingo or specs that I should know for most car audio equipment. I also want to build my own box and dont know how to do that either, lol. Yah, I know this is a lot to ask for and my post is kinda vague, but at this point anything will help. Thanks!

-Kyle

 

[Explorer94GV]

Well......2k is not leaving much slack since you have NO clue on what to do for installing. Now if you knew how to somewhat tear apart stuff thats not far fetched. Labor will kick your ass. Do you have a friend or somebody that will do it for free for you? Now you said youd like to stay between 1500-2000 well that alpine or pioneer will set you back about 1k. so that leaves 500-1000 left for wires,subs,amps,speakers,and box. IMO thats not enough but could be. Check out cardomain and peoples installs here to get ideas. Not alot of people have 02's that have systems however. Doing it by yourself and having no clue will not get you a perfect install hell even audio places cant always do that. Ask Rscotts1 he should be able to help you some since his is 02. As far as wiring amps and hooking up speakers there are plenty of people that know this. Building a box well if you know how to measure and use cutting tools anybody can do this. But as I said dont execpt a Crazy ass perfect install if you are going to do it for your first time. When i think of PERFECT install i just always think of show quality **** your idea may be different. All in All you will have to work up some cofidence to rip and tear into your Xplorer yourself and once you do you will see how easy it real is.

 

[Rscotts1]

System install

Hey goodfella...I concur with Explorer94GV, $1,500 to $2,000 may be cutting it a little short from the description of the system you wish to install. My original intentions were to stay under $1,500.00 as well but ended up spending close to $2,700.00! Hell, wiring alone can run you up to $300.00 and more!! And that does not include DVD! As mentioned above, cardomain.com has some nice installs, not too many of the 2002 X, but a few are there. Log on and look up Explorer's..then look for 2002 model's. One in particular looks really sharp! It is a black XLT I believe. He was able to save alot of his cargo space. As far as removing any panels, I can help you out there, as I have had nearly every panel off! Another plus in installing your own system in your X is the cleanliness.........working on a new car or SUV is great because every thing is still new/clean....no grime/french fries/gum/etc...lol. If your good with tools and have some mechanical ability, your system should turn out okay. Plus you will be the one who knows where everything went if any troubleshooting should arise. I still planning on doing some changes to my system. I intend to get rid of the (grey) carpet and recover everything (on panels) in matching tan vynle. If you need any help....don't hesitate to contact me. Good luck!!

 

[Mbrooks420]

I recommend getting a good book before you try and build the box. A good all around book is "The Car Stereo Cookbook". "Loudspeaker Design" is another. A pefect install is way hard to do.

 

[iugoodfella]

Yah Ill probably buy that cookbook and try to learn stuff even if I dont do my own install in the end. I was thinkin maybe Id get some square kickers and have someone custom install them into the side panels in the back. I think hiding as much of my system as possible is the best way to go. I went to a car audio shop this past weekend and they had some sweet ideas. The kickers seem like they get good reviews from all you guys and I heard them this weekend and they sound sweet, pretty much what I want from subs. So wish me luck.
-Kyle

 

[bates]

i agree with everything thats been said.
heres 2 important links

www.shop4sound.com -->amazing prices

http://www.eatel.net/~amptech/elecdisc/caraudio.htm -->wanna learn about car audio, this place has all the answers

its also important to know what you want, is monstorous bass all thats important to you? or do you want good kick for sq? very important to know b4 you buy the subs and amp!

my .02

 

[WoodysX]

Just informing you on the cost because in one case the cost will most likely exceed $2000

DVD Player $200-250

LCD Screens $500-900
(depending on screen size and if you want an overhead one)
OR FOR A COMBO PACKAGE

SCREEN and DVD player packages $1500-2500 that are placed in your HU area (the flip out ones) nice!

SUBS $150-300
(for a good set of subs)

BOX $20-30
(for building you own custom box including wood 3/4's
MDF, liquid nails, nails, and caulk otherwise about $100-150 for a prefabed box)

AMPS $200-500
(depending on wattage and how much your subs can handle)

WIRING: about
$30 for up to 350Watts
$50 for up to 800
$100+ for even more!

TOTAL=
$1100 (for everthing except the combo reciever/dvd/screen setup, it will cheaper if your get the dvd player and screen seperate
AND ABOUT
$2780 for the combo HU, subs, amp, wiring, and box

Dont get pissed off because I have the cost wrong Im doing the best I can to tell the street value on all the items above. I did my best at what I have seen online and in the stores ( i.e sounddomain.com, bestbuy, circuit city, etc.

Later