Installing a Car Amplifier

Installing a car amplifier

An amplifier takes the alternating current (AC) from the automobile and converts it into a direct current (DC). The amplifier then builds up this power (12volts) and pushes it out the speakers in watts. There are different types of amplifiers, and also variations in the type of wiring you have to do depending on the equipment you have in your car. An amplifier power kit can be purchased for around $40-$100 depending on the amount of power your amplifier is handling.

A major key to successfully install an amplifier is having the correct tools. The basic tools are wire strippers, exacto blade, flat head and phillips head screw drivers, extra fuses, electrical tape, and also crescent and socket wrenches. An amplifier project usually will take longer then expected. It is easy to run into many problems that create major headaches and are time costly. Having a voltmeter nearby can help save a ton of time if you run into a power problem by measuring the power.

First, unscrew the positive terminal located on the battery and take the power cord and place the female wire connector through the bolt, fastening it with the nut. This will be your positive feed for the amplifier. You will see a fuse block not far down the power cord, go ahead and remove the fuse to avoid blowing a fuse or creating a spark when wiring. Next, you have to find a hole that goes through the firewall. You may have to drill your own hole, in that case make sure you seal it with silicone after to avoid leaks into the car. Run this wire down the driver's side to where the amplifier is located, keeping it away from sharp edges and out of the way of the driver's feet. The less wires showing, the neater your car will look.

Now it is time to pull out the amplifier turn on lead (22 gauge wire) and RCA cables. First take off the faceplate on the head unit, then using the keys included with the receiver, use one to pull of the plastic border. After you have it off, slide the keys down the side of the head unit until you hear a "click" on each side. They are now locked in place and when you pull them out, the head unit will slide out with it. Using the RCA cables, just follow the colors and match them up, but make sure you have put them in the audio out plugs. Now take the amp turn on lead and look through the wiring harness on the back of the head unit for a wire labeled- "Amp Remote". You may have to check in your head unit's manual to find the correct color if it is not labeled. Using wire splitters get the plastic coating off and twist the two together, covering all exposed wire with electrical