Stereo installation

[cmb3366]

In my quest to get my Tracker up to speed for this season, I have come to the conclusion that it needs a stereo. Looking at the boat, it seems the most logical place to put one would be on the collumn, as it would be easily accessable, close to the fues panel, and out of the way of water.

I'm looking at the $119 Pyle kit for sale on Overtons, and it looks like just the ticket. Here's the sticky part, I've never installed a radio before, so I've got no idea what they come with for mouting hardware, or what they need for a mounting surface. As you can see, the place where I want to mount it will bassically only be 1/4" fiberglass. Will this work? Do these radios come with any mounting hardware or brackets? Will I need a special mount? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks


Pardon the lousy arrows and writing, it was the best I could do with my laptops trackpoint

 

[a2theb]

Re: Stereo installation

That should work. Almost all stereos come with a sleeve that has tabs that you bend to secure it. Then the stereo slides in and clicks in place. As long as you have enough clearance in the back it will be fine. I'd recommend putting a waterproof stereo housing on also, pic here, to prevent anyone from bumping into it or water splashing on it.

 

[drewpster]

Re: Stereo installation

I agree with the waterproof cover idea. I had a stereo mounted in the same place on an old tri-hull I owned. We knocked the knobs off almost every time we went to the bow.
I would suggest bonding a piece of luan or thin plywood on the backside of the fiberglass where the stereo will be mounted. This will provide support for the radio's weight. One good wave and the fiberglass can crack. The stereo will have a stud sticking out of the back of it to use for additional support. I would suggest you also use that stud to support the radio on the inside.
Let us know what kind/ brand of stereo you end up buying and I am sure we can help you install it.

 

[cmb3366]

Re: Stereo installation

Thanks guys. I ordered the Pyle Hydra package linked below, $89.00 with the water cover and a remote included I think was fair. I'll post again when I get it likely with some more questions.



http://www.overtons.com/modperl/pro...e-Stereo-Packages&aID=17C&merchID=1009&r=view

 

[a2theb]

Re: Stereo installation

Nice. Looks like it has everything you need to get tunes on the boat! Good luck on the install and post pics of it when it's done or in progress.

Good idea BTW with the luan or ply to thicken up the cutout. The bracket on the back of the radio will also add to the stability.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: Stereo installation

I recommend you install the stereo where the driver can control its volume. If that is not practical, wire it to a switch the driver can turn off if needed. the driver will need to give commands to the passengers and with the stereo blasting, he will not be heard.

 

[derekpfeiffer]

Re: Stereo installation

Hey looks good...Please let me know what you think of the radio setup when you get done. I've been looking and some new stereo equip. for my boat and been looking at Pyle...Seems very reasonably priced. Just been a little skeptic because it almost seems too good to be ture.

Let me know how it goes

Thanks
Doogie

 

[midsouthfire]

Re: Stereo installation

Let me know how it sounds also. Did it come with a pre-amp output?

 

[jennis9]

Re: Stereo installation

we are installing our jensen tomorrow... we bought a gimbal radio mount for it online for about $30. it is a sealed box with a cover - it can be mounted under the "dash" and even has a dry spot for your ipod. i'll let you know how it goes and get some pics when we're through...

 

[cmb3366]

Re: Stereo installation

Well, I just got the stereo today, and just got done getting it installed, took a few hours. Here's some pics

The install was a SOB but worth it, I think it turned out pretty nice. The radio itself is a nice setup, lots of fearures, and I love the remote. The speakers will do for low level listening, but fall appart when you listen to them loud. They'll be replaced with something better down the road when I get a lil more spare change. All in all, I'm happy, and I'd buy it over again. The reciever, bracket, and remote alone were worth the purchase price.

 

[a2theb]

Re: Stereo installation

Looks good! Did you have to add more thickness to the mounting area? One less project off the checklist.

 

[cmb3366]

Re: Stereo installation

actually, I was fine with just the fiberglass. The waterproof enclosure stiffened up the hole and mounting surface a ton all on its own. I wouldent mount a stereo without one, excellent addition.

 

[orion25]

Re: Stereo installation

Well, I just got the stereo today, and just got done getting it installed, took a few hours. Here's some pics

The install was a SOB but worth it, I think it turned out pretty nice. The radio itself is a nice setup, lots of fearures, and I love the remote. The speakers will do for low level listening, but fall appart when you listen to them loud. They'll be replaced with something better down the road when I get a lil more spare change. All in all, I'm happy, and I'd buy it over again. The reciever, bracket, and remote alone were worth the purchase price.

When you upgrade the speakers take a look at the Polk Audio DB series speakers. They are marine rated and sound great.