An add-on CD changer increases the flexibility and variety of your listening experience. It utilizes a magazine that holds a number of discs and provides hours of music that can be accessed sequentially, selected manually according to your preference or (in some cases) set to access tracks from all discs in a randomized sequence. To expand your listening even further, consider purchasing extra disc-magazines to go with your changer (figure A) so that you can carry 20 or 30 discs in your vehicle -- already loaded and ready to play. Compatibility between various receivers and after-market CD changers can be an issue, so it's best to do some research before purchasing a changer. Many factory-installed receivers are incompatible with after-market changers, although adapters are available for some. CD changers purchased through car dealerships tend to be more expensive than those available from audio retailers. If you do replace your factory stereo with an upgrade system, that would be a good time to check on the availability of changers that are compatible with your selection. In this demonstration, we mount a Sony 10-disc changer in the trunk of a 2000-model Mustang and couple it with a compatible high-end receiver of the same brand. This changer, like many others, can be mounted in various locations or positions. It can be mounted vertically, depending on what works best for the location. Some people prefer to mount them inside the passenger compartment for easier access. It may be possible to mount the unit under a seat or even inside the center console. We opted to mount the changer horizontally in the trunk. - Important: Since this installation will require drilling, make certain that the location of the drilling won't damage fuel lines, gas tank, brake line, electrical lines, etc. Also, take caution that the unit is not mounted where it will be exposed to moisture or direct sunlight. Be certain that the mounting location is stable and able to bear the weight of the changer and that the unit won't interfere with the operation of the trunk lid or other moving parts.
Materials for installation: CD changer and mounting hardware
Pry tool
Electric drill
Screwdrivers, flat and Phillips - Once you've chosen a mounting location, use a pry tool (a flat screwdriver will do in a pinch) to remove the plastic pins that hold the carpet in place.
- Pull the carpet back to expose the metal surface where you will attach mounting brackets.
- The unit will attach to the trunk ceiling by means of side mounting brackets (figure B). Install the brackets onto the unit so that you can mark and predrill holes where the brackets will attach to the vehicle.
- Once the holes have been drilled, remove the brackets from the unit and attach them to the vehicle (figure C).
- With the brackets attached securely, install the CD changer and tighten it down.
- Once the mounting is complete, connect the wires (left and right RCA cables and power supply) to the unit. Feed the wires forward from the trunk into the passenger compartment. On most vehicles you'll be able to find a crevice or opening to feed them through. On some this step may require partially removing the rear seat.
- Feed the wires under the rear carpet. Remove the plastic door sill that covers the top of the rocker panel and feed the wires beneath that to conceal them (figure D). Make certain to tuck the wires in where they won't be pinched or crimped when you reinstall the scuff plate on top of the rocker panel. Finally, feed the wires under the front carpet and underneath the dash where they can be connected to the receiver according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Tip: If you connect the wires to the changer first (rather than the receiver) then run the wires forward, working from back to front, you won't need to disconnect the vehicle battery, since the wires you're working with aren't live until you connect them to the receiver.
- Important: Follow the wiring instructions that come with your changer exactly. There may be some variation between installations, depending on the unit that you're installing and the receiver to which you're connecting it.
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
Vehicles provided by McNelly-Whaley Ford Lincoln Mercury
750 Dolly Parton Parkway
Sevierville, TN 37862
Phone: 865-453-2833
Web site: www.ford4u.com
How to Design and Install High Performance Car Stereo: A Beginners Guide
Author: Joe Pettitt
Publisher: Car Tech, Inc. (1996)
ISBN: 1884089178
Order this title from Amazon.com.
Auto Audio
Model: 0071346899
Author: Andrew Yoder
Publisher: Tab Books
Order this title from Amazon.com.
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