boost up the stock stereo

stlmaj · July 16, 2003

I have done this mod to both my old 00’ ext cab and my new 03’ crew cab and it has drastically improved my sound while maintaining the stock stereo and the intergraded features that keeping the stock stereo provides. And it saved me the cost of a new stereo!

Here’s what I did:

I put two low level adapters to the stereo which then gave me RCA’s for both front and rear speakers. I then ran them back to two amps one powers the 4, 6 ½ Infinity 6002i’s and the other powers my 2 10” JL audio’s. I also stuck in 4 capacitors at 100uf to help keep the bass out of my infinity speakers. (This does the same thing as “bass savers” that sell for $10 a pair) This allows me to really crank up the sound.

The sound quality is awesome and I still maintain the extra functions out side of normal stereo that the stock stereo provides. I.E. delayed exit door locks and chime volume (03 crew cab features)

I also built my own subwoofer box for both trucks. I wanted to purchase a manufactured one for the 03’ crew cab but I couldn’t find one that would allow me to still use the back fold down seats for storage so I decided to build it. It was very tight but I managed to do it. My JL 10’s required .6 cubic feet for a sealed box per speaker and I managed about .58 each which I found sounds great. Here is a picture of the box.

If any one is more interested in exactly what I did I can give exact directions and provide more pictures.

Hope you like it!

dangerber · July 28, 2003

That looks great! Thanks for the info. Would you mind sending me some specifics on the box? I'd like to build one for my CC. [email protected]

Thanks!

-Dan

stlmaj · August 1, 2003

Yes, I can get some more pictures and instructions just need to wait for the weekend I have to much stuff going on this week but I will e-mail them to you. Will you be using the same speakers as I did or something else? 10's barely fit and it was very tight. Mostly just asking about brand and model to make sure you need the same size box as I did. Also just curious what year is your CC truck?

Thanks,

Matt

stlmaj · August 7, 2003

dangerber,

I sent you an e-mail with directions as to what I did. Sorry I toke so long just been real busy lately!! If you need any thing else or have any suggestions let me know I would be happy to help in any way I can! Good Luck!

Thanks,

Matt

dangerber · August 7, 2003

Thanks Matt! I got the info, this will really help out a lot. Just need to find time to build the box-sounds like we're both about as busy as the other!!

By the way, I was planning on using JL 10W3s. My CC is a 2002.

Thanks again!

-Dan

Lonewolf867 · August 8, 2003

stlmaj,

I would like to get that info from you. I have a 2003 Ext cab and think I could make that work! You are the first one I have seen that wanted to boost the stocker instead of buying all new. I am glad that I am not the only one!!

Floks always look at me like I am crazy when I say I like the stock stereo!! Just needs MORE SOUND!!

Thanks

Mike

stlmaj · August 9, 2003

I don't think this box would work in an extcab but you are welcome to the plans if you want. I also built one for my 00' extcab sierra that sounded awesome! I no longer have the exact dimensions but I can help you come up with them if you’re interested. I still have half the box somewhere if you’re interested!? The one in my extcab went under the back seat and the speakers fired down. Anyway if you’re still interested drop me your e-mail and I will send you what ever you want!!

Thanks,

Matt

kid6725 · August 10, 2003

stlmaj,

Could u email me with specifics on your box and how you wired the capacitors into your system. Ive got an O3 cc but just an LS and want to upgrade the radio but dont want to replace the headunit if I dont have too.

Lonewolf867 · August 10, 2003

I would love the directions!! Sounds like you have a first class system there!

stlmaj · August 13, 2003

I need your e-mails to send you the file. Mine is [email protected]

The capacitors I used was a 100µF 50V 20% Electrolytic Capacitor. I put one in line (series) with each door speaker. I tthink they were 50cents to a buck each. I bought several different sizes and played with the amount of bass it removed and found that this was perfect for what I wanted. You may want to try some different sizes just make sure you use the 50v ones the 35v can't handle the power!

MrQuadrasteer · September 11, 2003

stlmaj, beautiful job and excellent post- thanks. Answered my questions (amazing what you can find when you look !!!!)

So, think I can get a breakdown, too ?!? I'll shoot ya an email .

Thanks.

Smokey

stlmaj · September 12, 2003

stlmaj, beautiful job and excellent post- thanks. Answered my questions (amazing what you can find when you look !!!!)

So, think I can get a breakdown, too ?!? I'll shoot ya an email .

Thanks.

Smokey

Thanks for the compliments. check your email for the details of the install.

Matt

Lonewolf867 · September 12, 2003

Hey, Can I get a parts list? The low level outputs seems to blow everyones mind around here. I was wanting to start getting the parts together so I can do an install all at one time. Of course the local shops will only tell me that I need a new head unit.

are they something you can pick up at Radio shack or buy online?

I know a few of you are shaking your head right now and I don't blame you! But I refuse to have a shop do anywork on my truck that will not answer a question honestly.

I can wire it up ok I just don't know the correct parts to get.

Thanks in advance!

Mike

[email protected]

stlmaj · September 12, 2003

You can pick it up at Bestbuy and Circuit City for something like $15 each. I bought mine from a local shop I think they were $20 for both. I've never purchased from this company but here is a link to one I found online RCA line converter. And here are some on ebay Ebay Ebay Ebay Make sure you buy the adjustable ones. I bought the capacitors at Radio Shack.