1. Gather Your Supplies:
* Amplifier: Choose an amplifier appropriate for your speaker system's power handling capacity. Don't overpower your speakers!
* Wiring Kit: A complete wiring kit is highly recommended. This usually includes:
* Power wire: Thick gauge wire (typically 8-4 gauge depending on amplifier power) to connect the amplifier to the battery. Fuse is crucial!
* Ground wire: Thick gauge wire to connect the amplifier to a clean, bare metal ground point on the chassis.
* Remote turn-on wire: A thin wire to trigger the amplifier to turn on when the head unit is turned on.
* Speaker wire: To connect your speakers to the amplifier.
* RCA cables: To connect the audio signal from your head unit to the amplifier. If your head unit doesn't have RCA outputs, you'll need a line output converter (LOC).
* Fuse holder: For the power wire, absolutely essential to protect your car's electrical system.
* Wire strippers/crimpers: For safely connecting wires.
* Soldering iron (optional but recommended): For more secure connections.
* Heat shrink tubing (optional but recommended): To protect wire connections from moisture and shorts.
* Tools: Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead), wire cutters, pliers.
2. Choose Your Installation Method:
* Using a Line Output Converter (LOC): This is necessary if your factory head unit doesn't have RCA preamp outputs. The LOC takes the speaker-level signal from your head unit and converts it to a low-level signal suitable for the amplifier's input. This is the most common method for factory head units.
* High-Level Inputs (if your amp supports it): Some amplifiers have high-level inputs. This means you can connect them directly to the speaker wires coming from the head unit. This is less common but can simplify the installation if your amp supports it. This method will usually result in a slightly lower quality audio signal.
3. Installation Steps:
* Disconnect the battery's negative terminal. This is crucial for safety to prevent electrical shorts and shocks.
* Run the power wire: Route the power wire from the battery (through the firewall, usually), to the location where you'll mount the amplifier (often under a seat or in the trunk). Secure it with zip ties.
* Run the ground wire: Connect the ground wire to a clean, bare metal surface on the car's chassis. Make sure the connection is secure and free of paint or rust.
* Run the RCA cables: Route the RCA cables from the head unit (or LOC) to the amplifier, avoiding interference from power wires.
* Run the remote turn-on wire: Connect this wire to a 12V switched source that turns on when the head unit is turned on. You'll often find a suitable wire at the back of the head unit.
* Connect the speaker wires: Connect the speaker wires from the amplifier to your speakers. Be mindful of the polarity (+ and -). Incorrect polarity will result in out-of-phase sound and potentially damaged speakers.
* Install the LOC (if needed): Connect the LOC's outputs to the amplifier's RCA inputs and the LOC's inputs to the speaker wires from your factory head unit.
* Mount the amplifier: Securely mount the amplifier in its chosen location.
* Connect everything to the amplifier: Double-check all connections before proceeding.
* Reconnect the battery's negative terminal.
* Test the system: Turn on your head unit and check for sound. Adjust the amplifier's gain settings carefully to avoid distortion.
4. Important Considerations:
* Amplifier placement: Choose a location that is well-ventilated to prevent overheating.
* Fuse protection: Always use the appropriate fuse for your amplifier.
* Wire gauge: Use the correct gauge wire for your amplifier's power requirements. Too thin a wire can overheat and cause a fire.
* Grounding: A good, clean ground connection is essential for proper operation and to prevent noise.
* Professional installation: If you're not comfortable with car audio installation, it's best to take your car to a professional. Incorrect installation can lead to damage to your car's electrical system or even a fire.
This is a general guide. The specific steps may vary depending on your amplifier and your car's configuration. Consult your amplifier's manual and potentially a wiring diagram for your 1999 Chevy Malibu LS for more detailed instructions. Remember safety first!
