Installaton Q's

[Slick Rick]

Hi all. I have bought replacement speakers for my 97 Explorer (5X7's). I was wondering if they will be easy to install or a bit tricky. Will I need any special tools? Anything in particular that I should look out for? Are the panels difficult to remove? Any splicing? I have a 2-door model, will this make the rear speakers more difficult to get to...as the panel is much bigger? Thanx!

 

[Alec]

The rear speakers are easier to get to in the 2 door, as all you have to remove is the grille. To help you get the front door panels off, you should invest in a "panel popper" tool, basically a screwdriver type handled tool with a forked "snake tongue" end.

 

[mmsdrummer]

Not too many tricks, make sure you unplug the power locks first off. Unplug the power mirror control after you get the panel off. You don't necessarily need a door panel removal tool, just a putty knife to get started. You'll have to pull the doors more than you think you should to get them off.

The back speakers are very easy to replace because the grill comes off. You need to push down on the grill and pull out.

For wireing you can do one of two things: cut the stock plug off and splice together. Or (what I do) buy an adapter that will plug into the stock connecter. This way you have an easier time soldering the new speakers to the adaptor.

hope this helps