New Head Unit and Sub install, help!!!

YellowV6 · 05-23-2005, 07:28 PM

I have a 99 Mustang with the Mach system and I'm trying to figure out the best way to install. Hopefully you can help me with a couple questions:
1. I have a Kenwood head unit. I've seen two different types of wiring harnesses: one is cheap ($15) and one is quite a bit pricier ($50). The latter one says that it will keep the stock amp working...is it worth it? Where should I buy?
2. What have you guys done with the lower CD player when adding an aftermarket HU? I'm sure you could put an equalizer or changer in, but is there something more simple that can be put down there? Maybe a sunglass holder? If any ideas, where to look/buy?
3. I have two JL 10s that I used in a different car. The box they were used in is a simple, cheap, sealed box. It's too tall and a little bit too wide. I don't have the ability to build a box and am looking for an affordable solution (custom probably too $$$). Any ideas of places to look?
4. I've seen some boxes that I could use if I faced the subs straight up at the deck. Any problems doing it this way?
5. Finally, what is the best repair manual out there for Mustangs? I'd like to have something to reference when tearing my car apart.

Thanks in advance.

sick95gt · 05-24-2005, 07:30 PM

I know some Mach systems need to be bypassed either by rewiring the whole unit and running new speaker wires to every speaker. This also means that your head unit will be supplying all the power, which is less than the factory amps. Some mustangs have bypass plugs built in it. If yours has them, they will be behind the dash to the right. They are 2 horizontal plugs, one gray and one black. They should be plugged into another harness already. If your car has them, you have to unplug them and then go buy the harness that plugs into that harness for your Kenwood. There are also some Mach systems that let you plug a harness into the one that comes straight out of the deck and all you have to do is make sure you run the remote lead from the deck(blue and white striped) to the blue wire on the harness that you buy. As far as where, you can get it a local Best Buy. They might be able to get you the right one, or at least get you the right advice. As far as the spot below, you can get a pocket that goes underneath there also from Best Buy for like $18. They have a sealed box that fits 2 tens that should fit in your trunk and allow to face the taillights. This would be the best way to face your subs without making a custom box. Facing your subs up will cause a lot of rattle, especially if you have a spoiler. Hope this helps...

4.6marine · 05-26-2005, 12:54 PM

First off have you not searched through these forums there is a ton of stuff on how to do this. Anyway i will explain again. If you want to add subs and other speakers/amps, just replace the whole damn system. The factory s**t is too self contained and will not play well with others. If you are going to replace the head unit check out crutchfield.com, goto what fits my car and type in your info. If they suggest the 50 harness then jump over to cardomain.com and pick up the scosche FAI-3, which does the same thing, but only 20 bucks. You will also have to pick up the harness, but in the long run it is cheaper. As for this over ride harness....I have never heard that so you might wanna get some more info.