Aftermarket amp locations
 

I just installed a Kenwood DDX-8019 dvd head unit with backup camera, and now its time to dump the old speakers and get some amps. For speakers I was thinking about the Alpine SPX-17REF 6.5 components with a JL 300/4 amp. Feel free to talk me out of them if you have another favorite. For the sub I have a JL Audio 12W6 with a JL 500/1 amp.

My question is, anyone figure out a good location to put amps? I want to have them hidden and out of the way so I can remove the sub easily if I need to haul stuff. My thought was to mount them in the side panel where the monsoon sub normally goes (I don't have one, I got the standard audio package). Seems to be room if I create a mounting bracket and cut out the storage bin. Definitely interested in any other ideas! Thanks.

RE: Aftermarket amp locations
 

I always put my amps were they could get some air. Could you mount it or them on the box?

RE: Aftermarket amp locations
 

I definitely could, but I was hoping not to so I could easily remove the sub box if I have to transport anything large. I figure just disconnecting the speaker wire would be a lot easier than the power, ground, and remote wire.

RE: Aftermarket amp locations
 

I am in the middle of the same project, But it has STALLED because of amp placement.

Any ideas?

RE: Aftermarket amp locations
 

I'm thinking that if I get the monsoon side cargo panel cover, it will provide some ventilation for the amps, and from this pic it seems like it gives a little more space too (bumps out more than the non-monsoon cover). Can anyone confirm this? A few more inches would be nice, as if I go this route its going to be a tight fit.

http://mobile.jlaudio.com/images/12324.jpg

RE: Aftermarket amp locations
 

I am also thinking behind the panels however I have 2 Amps 2 Caps and associated hardware to fit...Maybe a custom board is the answer to replace one side of the compartment?

RE: Aftermarket amp locations
 

A custom plastic panel would be nice, but making my own would probably end up looking like crap! I called the local dealership and they want $148.71 for the monsoon sub version of the rear cargo panel. I hate to say it but I actually thought it would be more! I'm still wondering if that buys me more room. If somone who has the monsoon sub panel can give me top and bottom widths between the left and right panels, I could compare against mine and fine out!

I mocked up my amp in the panel area, and it looks like it'll fit if I create a bracket to hold it at a 45' angle. The only bummer about that is I'll have to do the same inside the other panel since I have 2 amps. You may have to do the same, one amp and one cap per panel. I don't see all that fitting in one panel. How big are your amps?

RE: Aftermarket amp locations
 

it may be easier, but i'd recommend putting in adistribution strip so that the speaker wires don't short together - best way to blow up your amp, since it's not built to drive a short. whichever one you end up disconnecting, a distribution strip would be the safest way to make sure you don't have wires flopping around.

RE: Aftermarket amp locations
 

Good point, I'll do that. Thanks.

RE: Aftermarket amp locations
 

and don't use caps!!!! Ever see a tranformer blow on a telephone pole? A cap is the same damn thing!!! A good hit in a car accident or just a short in the iring and you have a pipe bomb in your truck.