Stealth Amp Install

[Redmist]

Has anyone managed to install an amp in a discrete location such as near the rear speakers? I'm wondering if something as large as a JBL MS-8 would fit behind there. I've heard that some people have installed amps there but I haven't found any pics to get an idea of what sort of amps.

[2forme]

I fit a 5 channel under the trunk floorboard. Check out my audio install thread.

[dlux]

link?

[Redmist]

http://www.ft86club.com/forums/showthread.php?t=17068

I'm going to attempt something similar with a JL XD700/5 on one side and a JBL MS-8 on the other side. It'll be tight but I think it's do-able.

[brianlo622]

there is always the rear deck

http://www.ft86club.com/forums/showthread.php?t=34335

[console_cowboy]

I'll try to take some pictures next time I get a chance, but I was able to hide a RF 500D-1 amp under the trunk by simply cutting out some of the rear foam. I mounted the LC2i line out convertor by the factory amplifier by removing a bit of additional foam. I was even able to create a harness to tap the factory amp's signal for my line out convertor. A stealth install is quite easy to do in this car without even removing the head unit!

[Redmist]

Are there any threaded mounting holes in the trunk floor? I saw some black stickers that seemed to be covering some holes. I'm not too keen on drilling and it's also pretty difficult to access the underside.

[console_cowboy]

Why not just use hook and loop cloth to fasten down the amplifier? I wouldn't bother to screw it into the trunk floor.

[Gir]

Here's how I did mine, used the mounting locations from the factory amp (which doesn't come on the Aus spec):

[Redmist]

Originally Posted by console_cowboy

Why not just use hook and loop cloth to fasten down the amplifier? I wouldn't bother to screw it into the trunk floor.

You mean Velcro? I may take that option but I might need some convincing that it's a sturdy solution.

EDIT: I don't think the floor is flat enough for that option - it's very curvy.

[console_cowboy]

Use thick velcro. It won't matter if the floor is curved or not. If you use three or four thick strips it should have plenty of support. I have four strips holding down a much heavier subwoofer box to the trunk carpet and it never moves even during hard cornering. I am intending on adding the velcro when I add in a second amp. I cut the foam in the trunk to size with my amplifier and it doesn't move much in the trunk even without the velcro. The foam secures it from the sides while the trunk cover keeps it from moving upwards.

Another thought I had was finding some sort of tabs that would snap into the amplifier mounting holes, then using double sided tape to attach that to the trunk floor. I haven't looked into this solution yet though.

[Redmist]

It's not just a few bumps - it's a majorly curvy, twisty surface that drops away to the corner of the rear seat. I've had a look and whilst Velcro works great on a flat carpet surface, I think it would be a very ghetto solution in this case.

[console_cowboy]

I haven't had any problems even without adding the velcro. If you cut the foam to fit, it actually stays put. I have considered making a carpeted amp rack to go where the factory foam goes, but would have to have some more time to do so. I think it would be quite easy and secure using just the factory amp mounting bolts. If you want something that is not "ghetto" as you put it, then I would try to mount a flat piece of carpeted mdf to the factory amp bolts and have it stretch across where the foam would be. Place risers strategically along it to provide support for the trunk floor as well. If you only had a small amp to hide, you wouldn't even have to remove all of the foam. If you're a skilled with metal, you could probably make something similar with steel. Although if you're willing to go to those lengths, why even bother posting the question here? Just do it or find someone else to. People have been hiding amps under trunk carpeting for years.

The other reason I am planning on using the velcro is due to not really being able to show off the setup. Right now I'm using a ported box and it is slightly large, so nobody ever sees the current setup without some work. I am planning on switching to a more efficient sub in a smaller sealed box, making it simple to remove the cover and show off my work. Then I will make some sort rack to hold the amplifiers with some class.

[rbizzle004]

Just installed my JL Audio XD500/3 in the trunk under the carpet like some of the previous people have talked about. It wasn't to hard cutting the foam pieces and getting the amp in there snug. I am going to get a couple of Velcro strips tho to make sure it stays in place.