FINALLY DONE!!! ...for now.

[bullaculla]

Been working on this for awhile, but didn't want to post until it was all complete. This is a total budget build. I built the box, and installed everything myself in my garage. I spent just around $1200. I am NOT trying to win any competitions here, I just wanted some better sound for a little bit of money and got quite carried away. But now I have a solid multimedia system in my Mazda5 :D

Orion 2 channel amp wired in mono and 10" Kicker CVT in my custom box. Box is sealed and has about .7 cubic feet with some polyfil. Less than kicker recommends, but I did not want to make the box too big.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0001.JPG
Fully functioning 3rd row seats. :cool:
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0002.JPG
The speaker "guards" are just some black chrome drawer pulls from my local hardware shop. I originally planned to mount one on each side to make installation/removal easier, but they ended up like this in case I need to put something on the box.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0003.JPG
Full access to spare tire and tools. Some visible sound deading material.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0004.JPG
It takes some work to get the jack past the little .5 farad cap, but it does come out. Cap is mounted to a plate I made, which is mounted to the side wall with some unused factory bolt holes.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0005.JPG
I made the amp enclosure a little bigger than necessary in case I wanted to go bigger later. I made it so the 600.2 will fit in there.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0006.JPG
There is a hole under the amp with a little computer fan under it to circulate the air. Plus its on blocks. Fan turns on with the amp.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0007.JPG
Grey stuff is just some textured fleck stone from a spray can.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0008.JPG
I didn't want to mount the amp upside down, but this way keeps the ground wires short.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0009.JPG
The most time consuming part is making this curve. Explanation at the end.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0010.JPG
Shot from inside. The flap on the back seat that used to attach to the storage cover, is attached to the box so that nothing will fall down between the seats and the box.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0011.JPG
Action shot. The cone will travel a lot more, but this was at home and a little late in the day to be vibe-ing out the neighbors... Folded down seats are flush with the box.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0012.JPG
HU pics.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0013.JPG
I love this stereo. It can even play Mpeg from the USB flash drive. It also has full IPod control, but I don’t have an IPod ...yet.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0014.JPG
JVC LCD.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0015.JPG
The LED lights replace the stock dome lights and work with just as the stock would with OFF-DOOR-ON function. There is a switch on the side of the unit.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0016.JPG
Sorry, not many DVDs in my car yet. It was either this or Barbie Fairytopia, Magic of the Rainbow (blarf)
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0017.JPG
There is an arm to swing the LCD down lower and locks in place. LCD can also twist a little to each side.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0018.JPG
And yes, it blocks the rear view mirror in this position.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0019.JPG
Luckily I installed a Panasonic back-up camera. You can’t even see it while standing up. It turns on when put into reverse. I plan on wiring up a switch to turn the camera on whenever I want. The rear camera will interrupt the LCD on the HU, but not the roof LCD.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0020.JPG
You can see the lines around my camera where the factory camera would be if we were in Japan. The most frustrating part of this whole build was fishing the camera cable through the back door. The door is plastic, and the inner part is actually fused to the outer skin, making it nearly impossible to fish the thick wires through without removing the back window. Amazingly, after 3 days of trying, I got it through and then ran the wires through the factory rubber boot, and into the headliner.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0021.JPG
DONT RUN OVER THE KIDS!!!
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0022.JPG
Mic for the Kenwood bluetooth unit.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0023.JPG
Now for the installation pics…
That’s where the bluetooth unit lives. You can even play/control mp3's from cell phone via bluetooth on the stereo. You don't even have to take the cell out of your pocket! (rockon)
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0024.JPG
I had to make a bracket/mount for the camera out of G10 garolite. The bolts have locktite and epoxy so it will never come apart or be stolen. From the outside anyway...
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0025.JPG
Sealed and mounted with silicone from the inside of the door. I used scrap sound deadening material as tape for my wires :D
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0026.JPG
That box is the controller for the Panasonic back up camera. You can also see the speaker baffles/cups I used, and some sound deadening material wherever I could reach. Speakers are running off the HU.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0027.JPG
Partially covered trunk floor. I used Second Skin Damplifier to deaden my 5. I did the floor up to the driver’s seats, most of the roof, 2 layers on the rear wheel wells, the front doors, license plates, back door interior cover, and wherever else I could shove my hand in.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0028.JPG
You can see some factory sound deadening material on the floor. Sorry, I didn't take any after installation shots. I was too sweaty :p
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0029.JPG
Roof was the easiest to mat, and made the biggest difference. LOOK AT ALL THOSE AIRBAGS!!! :eek: Kinda scary...
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0030.JPG
LCD bracket. This thing is heavy duty. I wanted it a little more forward, but it would have interfered with the sunroof. I still have full sunroof function in this position.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0031.JPG
Clamping curved face of speaker box. I let that curved piece sit in a bending jig for about 3 weeks before assembly, so that it would hold some of that bend on its own.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0032.jpg
It still took a lot of force to get it into position. There are temporary braces in the box to help it take shape while I screw the box together. I left the clamps on for a few days after assembly to make sure the glue was completely dried and sealed. If you try this, leave the piece longer than necessary to give you more leverage. Then cut off the excess after its built.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0033.jpg

If you search for my name, I did a similar speaker box install on my Mazda3 a long time ago. But that was really simple compared to this.
On this build, I really didn't want to cut or drill anything. Most of it can return back to stock except the roof LCD. The only holes I drilled/cut were: the hole I made for the backup camera, the hole I drilled in the plastic clutch hole plug in the firewall for the amp cable, the tiny holes holding the amp fuse, and the huge hole I made for the roof LCD in the headliner (which is a PITA to get out)

That’s it! Hope you like my build. If you have any questions, feel free to ask, but I am NOT an expert on car audio! So don’t ask too technical questions. This is actually my very first time replacing a head unit with an aftermarket stereo, and my first time working with a cap. I just have some basic electronic knowledge and have a full woodworking shop, so I know how to build/design a wooden box to fit a car. I don't know if it’s the most efficient design for acoustics, but it sounds great to me ;)

Equipment:
Head unit
-Kenwood DDX512 (from Crutchfield so I got the free dash kit and harness)
-Kenwood KCA-BT200 bluetooth interface (Ebay)
-Kenwood KNA-RCDV330 remote control (Ebay)
Speakers
-Kenwood KFC-C6882ie (also from Crutchfield so I got the free adaptors)
Amplifier
-Orion Cobalt CO300.2 (Ebay)
Subwoofer
-Kicker CVT10 4-Ohm (Ebay)
Capacitator
-Rockford Fosgate .5 farad cap (Ebay)
Amp wiring kit
-Rockford Fosgate FRK8I 8 gauge amp wiring kit (Ebay)
Roof LCD
-JVC KV-MR9010 9" Overhead LCD (Ebay)
Back up camera
-Panasonic CY-RC50KU (Ebay)
6x8 speaker baffles
-Boom Mat slim baffles (Ebay)
Sound dampener
-Second Skin Audio Damplifier (ordered direct)

Updates on page 3 and 4.

[StealthWyvern]

Wow that looks pretty damn good!

[Nutari]

That is a super clean install and I am very jealous. I would hire you to do my build if I lived near you. :D

and I just noticed that you DO live near me. Kind of.

Im down on the bottom island. :P

[L8R]

That is impressive. You can make a box for me too :D

VERY NICE. It looks so clean, I thought it was stock at first! GJ,

[CHICO2003]

Outstanding work! I think the sub needs a grille though. I'm guessing you're no longer going to be using that space to put stuff but... just in case something where ever to fall or something... it would be nice to know i'ts protected.

[bullaculla]

Thanks guys! :D
Its been a long road. Most of my interior was in my living room for about a month.


Outstanding work! I think the sub needs a grille though. I'm guessing you're no longer going to be using that space to put stuff but... just in case something where ever to fall or something... it would be nice to know i'ts protected.

I might end up with this kicker grille. It looks pretty good.
http://www.crutchfield.com/p_20608GR10/Kicker-08GR10.html?showAll=N&tp=2054
I actually made a little cover that fits over the drawer handles out of scrap MDF and wrapped it in extra carpet to cover the speaker in case I do need to haul anything. I just have to press a button on the HU to turn off the sub/amp.

[StealthWyvern]

Thanks guys! :D
Its been a long road. Most of my interior was in my living room for about a month.



I might end up with this kicker grille. It looks pretty good.
http://www.crutchfield.com/p_20608GR10/Kicker-08GR10.html?showAll=N&tp=2054
I actually made a little cover that fits over the drawer handles out of scrap MDF and wrapped it in extra carpet to cover the speaker in case I do need to haul anything. I just have to press a button on the HU to turn off the sub/amp.

I like that one and this one! Either grill will set it off!

http://www.crutchfield.com/p_107MM8G/Polk-Audio-MM8G.html?showAll=N&tp=2054

[bullaculla]

I like that one and this one! Either grill will set it off!

Some quick photoshoppage...
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/large/grille.jpg

hmm... maybe I should order it :D

[rweatherford]

All that for around $1200?

That's sweet. I obviously haven't looked at audio prices lately.

[coolmazda5]

(wow) impressive. Great job, looks very professional

[dima_rus]

dude, that is a crazy set up you got there. hmmmm, ideas ideas

[camryman]

Awesome install! Can't believe you got the entire headliner out! Wow!!

One note: You mention you wanted a switch to turn the backup camera on at any time. If you hold the NAV button down for 1 sec on the Kenwood, that will give you the reverse camera at any time (not just while in reverse). You need to activate this in the Kenwood setup screen.

Two questions:
1. After your 3 days of fishing that wire in the back door, any advice on how you did it? I gave up after 1/2 day and simply connected to the top of the rear glass (camera mounted on the inside). I'd love to get the camera down to the position you used.
2. Did the sound deadening knock out any road noise?

[bgibb68]

i wanna see the 3 install now and how you got the mdf to curve exactly....i wanna do a flat box style kinda like that for the back of my p5....that is awesome man. great job

[nehvada]

very well done, looks sweet!!

that gives me a nice idea where i can hide this baby here:

http://www.caraudio24.de/images/product_images/thumbnail_images/14290_0.jpg

looks like it got room enough behind the left side cover of the trunk (headbang)

[wheresthericego]

That is some awesome work!! You know what they say. If you want it done right, you gotta do it yourself.

[$chocker]

That's just astonishing!

The patience, attention to detail and expertise shown in your installation is really incredible. If you aren't doing this stuff professionally already, I think you should be!(10)

[bullaculla]

Again, thanks for all the kind words guys! :D


Awesome install! Can't believe you got the entire headliner out! Wow!!

One note: You mention you wanted a switch to turn the backup camera on at any time. If you hold the NAV button down for 1 sec on the Kenwood, that will give you the reverse camera at any time (not just while in reverse). You need to activate this in the Kenwood setup screen.

Thanks for that! I will give it a try.


Two questions:
1. After your 3 days of fishing that wire in the back door, any advice on how you did it? I gave up after 1/2 day and simply connected to the top of the rear glass (camera mounted on the inside). I'd love to get the camera down to the position you used.
2. Did the sound deadening knock out any road noise?

That was a headache. I actually got to a point where I called an auto glass shop to see how much it would cost to remove a window and then put it back on :D

Here is about where my wires are. I am assuming you are getting stuck in the red corner, right?
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/large/IMG_001.jpg
I fished a normal wire through from the center, and then out the side hole. I wrapped the thin wire around the camera plug twice and then tightly wrapped it with tape, including the plug to give it a more streamline profile hoping it would prevent it from getting caught.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/large/IMG_002.jpg
Keep the wire low. Push it down into the channel. I finally got it past the corner using a push/pull motion with both hands. Dont pull the wire too hard, you might break the tape and it will get caught on the corner.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/large/IMG_003.jpg
Keep it loose and push/pull with both hands. Also, try having someone hold the door half closed to keep it level. I used straps to hold mine down.
If you do get it through, then its easy to to fish it down to the rubber boot. The grommet comes out easy, and separates from the rubber boot. Getting the wires through the rubber tube is tough, but manageable.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/large/IMG_004.JPG
Sorry if my illustration looks obscene :p

About the Damplifier, This was a long install because I have to work everyday, so I was driving around without any interior panels. That is like driving around in an empty soda can! I it does make a difference. But it is not like nearly as quiet as my Jeep Commander.
The headliner removal/LCD/Damplifier install was actually done in one day, so I could tell a difference in the roof matting right away. I mostly did it because I wanted the cheap speakers to sound better. And they do.
If you really want to kill road noise, your best bet would be a layer or two of Damplifier or Damp Pro, and a layer of their Luxury Liner. It would be easier to notice a difference if I could hop out of my car, and into a stock one.
I know the Damplifier works because with all the windows and doors closed, you can barely hear the sounds at max from 20 feet away.
Hope this helps! :)

[bullaculla]

i wanna see the 3 install now and how you got the mdf to curve exactly....i wanna do a flat box style kinda like that for the back of my p5....that is awesome man. great job

After I figured out the dimensions of the box, I cut the vertical pieces (sides, center, front and back) all to the same width with my table saw. The front curved piece was left a little long as I said for leverage. I placed 2, 1 foot long 2x4s on my work bench. Centered the front piece to be curved over it, then sandwiched the 2x4s, front piece and table together with bar clamps.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/02.jpg
then gradually tighten the ends with clamps to start the curve. Let it sit for a few day, and tighten some more.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/01.jpg
Once it starts holding, you can add another block. I let mine sit for about 3 weeks and it was pretty close to the right shape. Use the storage cover/box to check your curve. The box is pretty much the same dimensions as the storage box it replaces.
Take your time, and dont rush it. Keep it dry also.

[bullaculla]

If you hold the NAV button down for 1 sec on the Kenwood, that will give you the reverse camera at any time (not just while in reverse). You need to activate this in the Kenwood setup screen.


I tried it, and it totally works. It switches right to the backup cam. The only problem is that the camera itself is powered by the reverse lights. So even though the HU is switched to the backup cam as a source, the camera itself is still off.
I need to figure out something else, or just be happy with it :D

[rweatherford]

There is a switched power source right in the left rear panel. However looking at your pics it looks like your camera box is in the right side?

[bullaculla]

There is a switched power source right in the left rear panel. However looking at your pics it looks like your camera box is in the right side?

Thats not a big deal, I can always run a wire under the door trim; its just that I don't want the camera to be powered on all the time. I need the camera to last as long as possible :D

[atito]

Great set up :) wish i could do that. :)

[dima_rus]

Since I already swapped my front speakers and tweeters, and received Metra Kit with wiring from crutchfield and pretty much ready to put it all in place, can you please give me a quick "how to" on replacing rear speakers? or just rear panels removal, that would help me a lot.

On that note, I did search for that info, but could not find anything worthy. You did a really good job so I'll take your word how to make it all work.

Thanks in advance.
Dima

[atito]

Question, seems like the camera image is the opposite? like the license plates should be on the other side, also, how well does this camera work at night, looking to get a camera soon too.

TIA

[laracroft]

I agree with everyone else - very nice & clean install!

[bullaculla]

Thanks again guys! :D


Since I already swapped my front speakers and tweeters, and received Metra Kit with wiring from crutchfield and pretty much ready to put it all in place, can you please give me a quick "how to" on replacing rear speakers? or just rear panels removal, that would help me a lot.

On that note, I did search for that info, but could not find anything worthy. You did a really good job so I'll take your word how to make it all work.


The rear is not that hard. You are better off downloading the service manual tho. There are a few screws that are tricky.
It was easy for me since I already took out all the seats and stuff.
-Take all the storage stuff out.
-The 3rd row is just 5 big bolts holding it down, and 3 little "christmas tree" type fasteners that hold the carpet to the rear underside of the 3rd row seats.
-Then I unbolted the bottom of the 3rd row seatbelts.
-Then remove the cover/trim in the bottom, center of the rear door opening.
-Remove bolts and fasteners. (see manual 9-17-19 and 9-17-20 in the 09 in the WM folder)
The irritating part is that the front of the panel has some hooks that go under the weatherstrip. Its a pain to get them back in, but you may not have to remove the entire panel just to swap speakers. Just pop off the rear and reach in.

Link to mazda 5 service manual:
http://www.badongo.com/file/2571666
:everyone should download this before it gets taken down!!!:


Question, seems like the camera image is the opposite? like the license plates should be on the other side, also, how well does this camera work at night, looking to get a camera soon too.

TIA

Works great at night. The reverse lights light up everything well. The image is reversed so that when you look into the screen, its like looking into a rear view mirror. Most back up cameras will be a reversed image, but some HUs have an option to reverse the image as well.

:edit:
shot these just for you buddy ;)
Reversing into my Jeep Hemi Commander :D
You can see where the reverse lights are hitting the ground because of the reflectors. I outlined it.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/large/IMG_7053.JPG
This is about 8 pm with just the lights of the mazda. There are the garage lights on, but they are not very bright and not shining behind the Jeep.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/large/IMG_7054.JPG
You can get quite close with a back up camera :D
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/large/IMG_7055.JPG

[dima_rus]

Thanks for the link, I'll let you know how it went on Wednesday

[bullaculla]

Thanks for the link, I'll let you know how it went on Wednesday

Good luck! (hi)
I'll be leaving for a snowboarding trip in Oregon on wednesday, so sorry if I dont reply. I will try to check back as often as I can.
(drinks)

[5phreak]

wicked impressive install. I could never do that. But I wouldn't mind having all that cool stuff. cheers to you

[07MZ5SA]

Excellent job bullaculla!

I wish my better half will allow me take on mods of this magnitude.

I see you have the headliner removed for insulation and bracket. Is it diffcult to do? I plan to add another dome light on top of 3rd row.

[bullaculla]

Excellent job bullaculla!

I wish my better half will allow me take on mods of this magnitude.

I see you have the headliner removed for insulation and bracket. Is it diffcult to do? I plan to add another dome light on top of 3rd row.

Its only hard since you need to remove the upper pillar trim on all sides, which means you have to remove all the lower trim, which means you have to remove almost everything else...
It isn't very flexible either, so you cannot just bend the back part down to put the light in.
I actually had the same idea of a3rd row light since I now have an extra dome light. Also the wires for the lights are actually running up from the rear, so that would make it easy to install.

[GWDavis281]

DUDE THAT IS AN AWESOME JOB!!!!!!!!!

I love the Nav/DVD/Radio man, that is awesome!!!!! I wish i had a garage to do that sort of thing.

Though it helps to have a Mazda 5, but I'm working on that. :D

Glenn |B)

[ejayr]

I am impressed man it looks good !!

[atito]

Thanks again guys! :D



The rear is not that hard. You are better off downloading the service manual tho. There are a few screws that are tricky.
It was easy for me since I already took out all the seats and stuff.
-Take all the storage stuff out.
-The 3rd row is just 5 big bolts holding it down, and 3 little "christmas tree" type fasteners that hold the carpet to the rear underside of the 3rd row seats.
-Then I unbolted the bottom of the 3rd row seatbelts.
-Then remove the cover/trim in the bottom, center of the rear door opening.
-Remove bolts and fasteners. (see manual 9-17-19 and 9-17-20 in the 09 in the WM folder)
The irritating part is that the front of the panel has some hooks that go under the weatherstrip. Its a pain to get them back in, but you may not have to remove the entire panel just to swap speakers. Just pop off the rear and reach in.

Link to mazda 5 service manual:
http://www.badongo.com/file/2571666
:everyone should download this before it gets taken down!!!:



Works great at night. The reverse lights light up everything well. The image is reversed so that when you look into the screen, its like looking into a rear view mirror. Most back up cameras will be a reversed image, but some HUs have an option to reverse the image as well.

:edit:
shot these just for you buddy ;)
Reversing into my Jeep Hemi Commander :D
You can see where the reverse lights are hitting the ground because of the reflectors. I outlined it.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/large/IMG_7053.JPG
This is about 8 pm with just the lights of the mazda. There are the garage lights on, but they are not very bright and not shining behind the Jeep.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/large/IMG_7054.JPG
You can get quite close with a back up camera :D
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/large/IMG_7055.JPG


very very cool. i get it it was just confusing to me. Look great. i also plan to put a overhead display but my guy at the shop is gonna put it way up front somehow and be able also use my sunroof and cover. how close is the screen in your car? i find that there is not much space.

tito

ps, your car inspired me to hook mine up.

[bullaculla]

i also plan to put a overhead display but my guy at the shop is gonna put it way up front somehow and be able also use my sunroof and cover. how close is the screen in your car? i find that there is not much space.


If you look at this pic, you can see where the factory DVD would be mounted to. Its the black beam under the sunroof panel. It is quite flimsy tho and it would need to be a pretty small and light LCD to hang from that. In fact, you can see where I cut it in the center to allow access to the bolts holding in my LCD bracket. I only had to use tin snips to cut it.
The screen is a little too far back if you are sitting in the middle and have the chair straight up. If you recline back a little, then its perfect. You can see where the LCD itself attaches to the bracket on the wider piece.
I'd rather sit all the in the 3rd row next to the speakers and subwoofer anyway.
I'm glad (and kinda sorry) my install inspired you :D
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0031.JPG

[roy obanion]

Very nice, clean install. Definitely gives me some ideas for the p5.

[Katner]

UNREAL install. That's a 5-star project. Everything is exceptionally clean. In fact, for all the work you did, there are relatively few upgrades, all things considered.

Looks fantastic.

[mazdadude]

I am not sure how I missed this thread....(wow)

Very nice, top notch job, thank you for taking the time to take all of the pictures.

[bullaculla]

I am not sure how I missed this thread....(wow)

Very nice, top notch job, thank you for taking the time to take all of the pictures.

Yeah, the title is a little inconspicuous :D
maybe it should be (attn)Double Din, Sub/Amp, Overhead LCD, Backup Cam, Damplifier & Baby Cap Install! lots 'o pics!

I really tried to keep it stock looking. From the outside, the only clue is the HU. Everything else is pretty hidden or stock looking.
Thanks again all :)

[bullaculla]

Hey guys, been awhile but I finally got a bigger amp in. This is the one I designed the box for. It didn't get much louder, but you can tell it has more power in the really low bass hits. Now I need to get another amp and some component speakers up front.
Sorry so dirty...
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/IMG_0038%20copy.jpg
I still need to finish the cover for the amp to close it up how the old one was
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/IMG_0039%20copy.jpg

BTW, I also got some new rims and tires. Pics are in the "unofficial wheel fitment" thread :D

[SGT_OKINAWA]

Looks good, I'm just starting out...

http://www.mazdas247.com/forum/showthread.php?t=123754203

I'm doing a lot more, but I like your clean install, and the MDF trick was nice too.

As for the back hatch wires run, I'm already going to jerry rig something, I'll have about 1" around worth of speaker wires and I DON'T want to try to run them through the back hatch stock wire harness.

Cheers and thanks for share! (drinks)

Peace!(rei)

[Kenshin 1029]

I'm speechless... damn you're good!!! and Sgt. Okinawa too!!! (thumb)

[bullaculla]

Looks good, I'm just starting out...

http://www.mazdas247.com/forum/showthread.php?t=123754203

I'm doing a lot more, but I like your clean install, and the MDF trick was nice too.

As for the back hatch wires run, I'm already going to jerry rig something, I'll have about 1" around worth of speaker wires and I DON'T want to try to run them through the back hatch stock wire harness.

Cheers and thanks for share! (drinks)

Peace!(rei)

Yeah, i've been lurking around and been watching your build. Good work man!
Thanks again guys :D

[Antoine]

Wish I found this thread earlier...Amazing install, pics & info...Great thread...Thanks for sharing! (2thumbs)

[Northern]

Thanks for this thread, I managed to install back-up camera on my 5! (yippy) Special thanks for the pics!

Ohh, getting the cable through the rear hatch was a pain. I finally got it by pushing a wire cover from a bicycle through first. Then taped the cable to the wire cover and pulled it through. Power comes from the back-up light. Works great!

Now I can't decide whether I should install a small itx-size computer or invest in some 2-din touchscreen multimedia head unit with navi etc...

[Kid5]

Awesome!

[bullaculla]

Gonna have another update in a few days...
Crutchfield is having a sale on Infinity 6x8s.
http://www.crutchfield.com/p_1086820CS/Infinity-Reference-6820cs.html?c=3
just getting a pair for the front speakers. I plan on pushing them with the old 2 channel orion amp I was using for the sub in the beginning of the thread. Should balance out the system nicely.

I know you can find those speakers on E-prey a little cheaper, but they want an arm and a leg for shipping just to the continental US. I didn't even want to ask about shipping to Hawaii. Crutchfield is only charging me about $10 to ship the speakers here.

[SGT_OKINAWA]

B!

Keep us posted ! (usa)

Peace!(rei)

P.S. I'm on hold for a time, X-mas and wife is having a cow over the cost of a few things. (whistle)

[ballesteros_91]

nice job looks clean!

[bullaculla]

Okay, now I'm done...
With the audio side anyway (whistle)
I finally got my Infinity Reference 6820cs component speakers. Only comes with enough speaker wire for the tweeters tho, which I thought was strange.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/001.jpg
It also comes with a few different mounts for the tweeter, so there are a few possibilities. I wanted to use the mount that allows you to aim the tweeter.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/002.jpg
It's nearly the same size as the grille for the factory tweeter, so I decided to cut out the factory hole. I started with a dremel tool and rough cut the opening.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/003.jpg
Taking my time and trying to keep it round and even, I enlarged it until I could fit a drum sander in. Once it got bigger, I moved on to the next bigger size drum. This will help you make your opening as round as possible. If you try this, go slow and check size often.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/004.jpg
Once I got it to the correct size, I sanded the grille flush with a wood block and some sandpaper.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/005.jpg
Fits nice and covers the remnants of the stock grille perfectly.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/006.jpg
The threaded ring is beveled on one side, and it fits onto the stock mount perfectly.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/007.jpg

http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/008.jpg
The cups allow you to point the tweeter in any direction.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/009.jpg

http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/010.jpg
Not feeling the silver, so it got a light sand with some 400 grit paper, and its off to paint.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/011.jpg
Much better. Just a light coat of flat black spray paint.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/012.jpg
My hardware bag was missing one of the nuts that secures the pivoting mounts, so luckily I had some M4 locknuts which worked better anyway.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/013.jpg

http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/014.jpg
I reapplied the foam backing with some Super77 spray adhesive.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/015.jpg
Not many places for mounting the crossover, but there is perfect spot beneath the armrest area. There is plenty of room between the panel and the door to let it breathe.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/016.jpg
I am not going to go over panel removal, or speaker installation since it has been done before, and is pretty straight forward.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/017.jpg
Make sure the crossover is not going to fall off when you slam your door.
Crossover is secured with some crazy strong double sided foam mounting tape, and a screw on the inside of the crossover case. If you plan on using mounting tape, make sure you clean the area with some mineral spirits or something first.
All that sliver stuff is just some scrap sound deadener I did want to throw away :D

Of course the $200 Infinity components sound better than the $50 Kenwood 3 way speakers, but the Kenwoods are definitely worth the price especially when using an amp. The Infinity speakers are almost too good. Most of my low quality MP3s sounds like crap now. I don't even want to turn the radio too loud. With a little tuning and adjustment, the component speakers work very nicely with my sub. It is all balanced out nicely now, and is VERY loud. Sub is being pushed by an Orion Cobalt 600.2 amp, and the two Infinity component speakers (2 ohm) up front are being powered buy another smaller Orion Cobalt 300.2 amp. The pair of Kenwood 3 way 6x8 speakers in the back are still running off the HU.
(I am selling a pair of my kenwoods with new Mazda/Ford adaptors if anybody is interested)
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/019.jpg

Hope you like my final audio install :)

[SGT_OKINAWA]

Sweet 'how to' and nice pics...

Question: How hard was it to run the wires through the door to the bodu of the car? Is that rubber hose a bitch or what? past experiances for me, it's been bad.

Thanks!
Peace!(rei)

[bullaculla]

Nah, I just used the factory wires. They can handle a lot of amps. Too lazy to run my own :D

[SGT_OKINAWA]

Nah, I just used the factory wires. They can handle a lot of amps. Too lazy to run my own :D

HA HA HAA ! :) (wink)

Peace! (rei)

[AZeitzM5]

Mic for the Kenwood bluetooth unit.
http://photos.imageevent.com/bullaculla1/mazda5/huge/0023.JPG


Quick question. In This picture you show your steering wheel with the audio controls. Now with your new head unit can you still us the controls? ie. Volume, Mode for switching between CD's and Radio. adn the Mode to activate the Bluetooth for you phone.

Thanks

[bullaculla]

I was just showing the mic for the bluetooth unit. You can use the stock steering wheel controls with aftermarket stereos by installing the PAC SWI controller.
http://www.crutchfield.com/p_127SWIJACK/PAC-SWI-JACK.html?search=PAC&ssi=0
I do not have it... yet.
But you can read up on the specs or the reviews to see what it can do. Or search the site.


Quick question. In This picture you show your steering wheel with the audio controls. Now with your new head unit can you still us the controls? ie. Volume, Mode for switching between CD's and Radio. adn the Mode to activate the Bluetooth for you phone.

Thanks

[SGT_OKINAWA]

I was just showing the mic for the bluetooth unit. You can use the stock steering wheel controls with aftermarket stereos by installing the PAC SWI controller.
http://www.crutchfield.com/p_127SWIJACK/PAC-SWI-JACK.html?search=PAC&ssi=0
I do not have it... yet.
But you can read up on the specs or the reviews to see what it can do. Or search the site.


Sweet! Thanks for share the link, I tucked that away JUST IN CASE I decide to swap out the stock system (alright) just in case... (drinks)

Peace!(rei)

[Bonthron]

Great install Bullaculla! Clean and stealth... great qualities in a world with too many thieves!

I'm looking to upgrade our stock OEM MP3/changer head unit with a double-DIN Pioneer AVIC F90BT. My wife (who drives the 5 most often) needs Nav and Bluetooth, and wants iPod connectivity.

What I'm wondering about your install is, the dash kit that Crutchfield sent you, do you know the manufacturer and/or part number for it? It looks like you have the auto climate control and Metra and Scosche have told me that their dash kits don't work for Mazda5's with the auto climate control, only manual.

Any info you can provide would be great!

And thanks for the pic-heavy post – it makes my future install job that much easier!

[bullaculla]

Great install Bullaculla! Clean and stealth... great qualities in a world with too many thieves!

I'm looking to upgrade our stock OEM MP3/changer head unit with a double-DIN Pioneer AVIC F90BT. My wife (who drives the 5 most often) needs Nav and Bluetooth, and wants iPod connectivity.

What I'm wondering about your install is, the dash kit that Crutchfield sent you, do you know the manufacturer and/or part number for it? It looks like you have the auto climate control and Metra and Scosche have told me that their dash kits don't work for Mazda5's with the auto climate control, only manual.

Any info you can provide would be great!

And thanks for the pic-heavy post – it makes my future install job that much easier!

Thanks for the compliments!
This is the dash kit that came free with my HU.
http://www.crutchfield.com/p_120997509/Mazda-5-In-dash-Receiver-Kit.html?tp=3121

Also, I just installed the Kenwoood KNA G510 GPS. It plugs right into the HU and works great. Totally unnecessary in Hawaii, especially for anyone who was born and raised here, but it looks cool and the HU can support it, so why not!?!?! :D
plus its on sale at crutchfield right now for $200 with free shipping.
Pics soon ;)

[bootman]

Sweet! Thanks for share the link, I tucked that away JUST IN CASE I decide to swap out the stock system (alright) just in case... (drinks)

Peace!(rei)

Keep in mind that the PAC unit will get you everything on the steering wheel but bluetooth back.
That will be up to what ever unit you wind up getting and how it works.

[Bonthron]

Thanks for the compliments!
This is the dash kit that came free with my HU.
http://www.crutchfield.com/p_120997509/Mazda-5-In-dash-Receiver-Kit.html?tp=3121



Do you or anyone know if that's a Metra Dash Kit or not? Metra tech support told me that their kit does not work with the Auto climate control Mazda5's.

[canadianexpress]

Wow amazing job. Just curious how long did all that take you?

[bullaculla]

Do you or anyone know if that's a Metra Dash Kit or not? Metra tech support told me that their kit does not work with the Auto climate control Mazda5's.

99% sure its the metra.

[Bonthron]

99% sure its the metra.

Thanks for the confirmation. I just didn't want to order something and find out it wasn't going to work after the fact.

[Bluesideup]

Bonthron I thought we ClubB5/Passatworld people would stop following each other around. I was CRD99 on that site.

[red headz]

Just a bump to revive this thread as I am currently dampening our M5 with RAAMmat and Ensolite.

Floor is done, and I might tackle the roof this evening.

m.

[jimp]

post up some pics, I've done a little bit of deadening in the front doors when i installed new comps but I'm think a little bit more, maybe a lot more to quieten down the 5 overall might be in order. Ours is fairly quiet now, but maybe some ensolite on all four doors might quieten some of the road noise. Let us know.

[Silentnoise713]

Awesome setup and really clean! (2thumbs) Stuff most of us dream about but unable or too lazy to do.

Next suggestions (because you can't stop!):
-Carputer tethered to 3G/4G device for wireless mobile networking (free music and videos) and software to monitor/tune the car :D
-Fiberglass work to make your own consoles and tidbits, which you have a good eye for.