DIY Network

Acrylic Subwoofer Enclosure: Completion From "Tricked Out" episode DTRK-113

	The new acrylic speaker-enclosure, installed in the 2001 Toyota Celica.

In this episode of Tricked Out, host Andrew Totolos installs an acrylic subwoofer-enclosure on a Toyota Celica. In this final segment, Andrew completes the acrylic speaker-box installation by wiring the subwoofer up for sound and securing it in the car.

Materials used in this episode:

10" subwoofers
3/4"-thick transparent acrylic, precut to fit your design
Speaker wires
Terminal plates
Wire connectors
Straight-edge
Measuring tape
Pencil
Jig saw
Several fine-tooth jig-saw blades
Drill and bits
Hole saw
Clamps
Masking tape
Methylene-chloride acrylic glue
Syringe applicator

Safety Alert: As a standard safety precaution, always disconnect the vehicle's negative battery cable before you begin work on any electrical or mechanical components.

Safety Alert: Always wear eye protection and ear protection, and follow proper safety precautions, when working with power tools or pneumatic tools. Also wear eye protection any time you are working underneath a vehicle.

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Wiring the Subwoofer

• Begin by making the speaker wires that will connect the connection terminals to the speakers themselves. For the Celica design, cut two 18-inch lengths of 16-gauge speaker wire. Split the wires back about four inches on each end, and then strip the ends and crimp female spade connectors to each wire (figure A).

• Attach one end of the speaker wire to the terminal block, feed the wire into the box, and install the terminals on the side of the box with the hardware provided (figure B). Be sure to buy terminals with foam backing for an airtight seal.

  Figure A

  Figure B

  
  

• For the speakers, take bolts and from the inside of the box push them through to the front(figure C). Attach the retaining nuts. Repeat this for all of the stud, and make sure they are snug.

• Attach the speaker wires from the terminal to the speaker.

• Slide the speaker onto the studs, making sure to align the speaker logo correctly (figure D).

  Figure C

  Figure D

  
  

  	Figure E
  	Figure F

• Finally, use acorn nuts to secure the speakers in place (figure E). The acrylic speaker box is complete.

• Now you can remove the protective paper from the acrylic.

• Have a friend help you set the speaker box in your car (figure F).

  Tip: This box should be heavy enough to stay put for daily driving but, if you prefer, you can prevent any sliding with a rug gripper or hook-and-loop tape.

• Run the speaker wires around the side of the box and attach them to the box terminals matching polarity from the amp. Your subwoofer project is now complete, and you're ready to turn it up loud.

$255 acrylic, including cutting
$25 Glue and applicator
$180 Speakers
$65 Electronics
$10 Hole saw
$10 Saw blades and misc.

Total = $545

Important: Included in this summary are the steps in this automotive procedure as shown in the episode. These steps are general guidelines that are applicable to most vehicles. With any particular vehicle, there may be procedures, specifications, settings, tolerances, components, etc. that are specific to that vehicle. There are also variations according to the type and brand of upgrade-kit you select. Always consult your vehicle's service manual when undertaking significant automotive repairs, and read and follow the manufacturer's directions and precautions that come with your kit or replacement parts.

RESOURCES :

Crutchfield Car Audio
Crutchfield is not only a catalog retailer specializing in a wide array of popular audio equipment, they excel at providing information and resources for audio-system installation by car owners. Their Crutchfield Guide: Car Stereo Installation offers valuable information on installation of components in most vehicles. Their free catalog offers advice on selecting the best type of system for your tastes and the most suitable equipment for your vehicle.
Crutchfield Corporation
Website: www.crutchfield.com

Auto Audio
Model: 0071346899
Author: Andrew Yoder
Publisher: Tab Books
Order this title from Amazon.com.

Special Resources for Tricked Out, episode 113

Stillwater Designs/Kicker
Website: www.kicker.com

Racing Innovations, Inc.
Website: www.racinginnovations.com

The12Volt.com
The 12Volt.com is a specialized website devoted to providing technical information for mobile electronics installers as well as professional tips and tricks. Included are a mobile electronics glossary, charts, diagrams, specs, calculators and general information on car-audio, security systems, cruise control and other automotive electronics systems.
Website: www.the12volt.com