1. Gather Your Tools and Materials:
* New speakers: Make sure you buy speakers that fit your existing locations. Measure the diameter (e.g., 6.5", 5.25") and mounting depth of your old speakers before purchasing new ones. Consider impedance (usually 4 ohms or 2 ohms) to match your car's stereo system.
* Screwdrivers: Phillips head and possibly flathead, depending on your door panel fasteners.
* Panel removal tools: Plastic pry tools are ideal to avoid scratching the door panels. If you don't have these, use something sturdy but padded (e.g., a blunt butter knife wrapped in cloth).
* Wire strippers/cutters: For stripping the speaker wire.
* Electrical tape or butt connectors: To connect the new speakers to the existing wiring.
* Optional: Speaker wire (if you need to extend the existing wires), Damping material (to reduce vibrations and improve sound quality).
2. Removing the Door Panels:
* Locate the fasteners: These are usually screws hidden behind access panels (e.g., under the door handles or armrests). Remove these screws.
* Pry the panel: Carefully insert your panel removal tools into the gaps between the door panel and the door. Gently pry the panel away from the door, working your way around the perimeter. There are usually clips holding the panel in place, so be patient and avoid using excessive force. Be aware of any window crank or door lock mechanisms attached to the panel.
* Disconnect the connectors: Once the panel is loose, disconnect any electrical connectors (e.g., for the window controls, door lock, or speaker) connected to the back of the panel.
3. Removing the Old Speakers:
* Remove the speaker mounting screws: The screws that hold the speaker to the door are usually visible once the panel is removed. Unscrew them.
* Disconnect the speaker wires: Carefully disconnect the speaker wires from the old speaker. Note the positive (+) and negative (-) wires. Take a picture if needed.
* Remove the speaker: Gently pull the speaker out of the door.
4. Installing the New Speakers:
* Connect the speaker wires: Connect the new speaker wires to the existing wires using electrical tape or butt connectors. Make sure to match the positive (+) and negative (-) wires correctly.
* Mount the new speakers: Carefully mount the new speakers into the door using the provided mounting hardware (usually screws). Ensure the speaker is securely mounted.
* Reconnect the door panel connectors: Reattach all the electrical connectors to the door panel.
* Reinstall the door panel: Carefully align the door panel and push it back onto the door until the clips snap into place. Reinstall the screws you removed earlier.
5. Test the Speakers:
Turn on your car's stereo and test the new speakers. If they don't work, double-check your wiring connections.
Important Considerations:
* Speaker Size: Confirm the size of your existing speakers before buying replacements. It's common for Blazers to have 6.5" speakers in the front doors and smaller ones in the rear.
* Depth: The depth of the speaker matters; a speaker that's too deep won't fit. Check the specifications carefully.
* Wiring: If your wiring is damaged or too short, you'll need to replace it.
* Damping: Adding damping material to the door can significantly reduce vibrations and improve sound quality.
* Amplifier: If you're planning on installing a powerful amplifier, you may need to upgrade the wiring to handle the increased power.
If you're not comfortable with any of these steps, it's best to seek professional help from a car audio installer. This is just a general guide, and the specifics can vary considerably between Blazer models. Always refer to a repair manual or a reputable online resource specific to your 1997 Chevy Blazer before starting the project.
