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Keep or Bypass Factory Amp?

DjDom

Moderator Emeritus
Joined
September 11, 2011
Messages
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City, State
Toronto, Ontario
Year, Model & Trim Level
97 XL(imited)
As most of you know, many Explorers came with a factory amp in the rear quarter panel to power the door speakers. (All Ex's up to 97 I believe)

To keep this quick,
would you keep or bypass the factory amp when installing a new head unit.

I was thinking about bypassing it, however, I realized that a new head unit puts out around 16 Watts RMS per channel. The stock amp puts out 20 watts. Anyone can correct me if I'm wrong.

So, what would you do and why?

Also, what harness should I use? (97 Ford Explorer XL 4DR w/ Auto Set button)
 






I would bypass it, and not use a bypass harness. Just run speaker wires directly from the head unit to the speakers...
 






I would bypass it, and not use a bypass harness. Just run speaker wires directly from the head unit to the speakers...

That's a bit of a pain though, wouldn't you say?

Knowing the way Ford runs wires to the doors, and I can never get that stupid connection at the drivers door to unhook. That cylindrical black plastic thing in the door jam.
 






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