jwanck11

Anyone consider putting an aftermarket amp inside the center console? It will either be there or under the passenger rear seat. I am leaning toward the console because it will be too exposed under the rear seat. The amp is class D so I am not worried about heat.

In the console, I am thinking of mounting a shelf above the amp so that I retain some storage space as well as the 12V power that is in there all ready.

nyterydrtuckn26ss

you want to mount your amp where air can get to it !! i had 3 class d amps n they got hot. so mount behind rear seats or under seat not in console

sharper4

I have a Rockford 1000x5 d-class behind the rear seats. It never gets too warm. At least not when I spot checked after using the system pretty hard and then putting my hand on it. At best it was barely warmer than anything near it. Behind the rear seats seems to be the most popular place to mount your amp. I don't think the Sony amp puts off much heat and therefore very little air flow is probably needed.

nyterydrtuckn26ss

put behind your rear seat using security screws and it be pretty safe

custm2500

Center consol should be fine. I have had my system for well over a year and bought it used from a friend. I typicaly don't beat it hard but plenty of times I have cranked it up for 20-30 minute rides and never had it thermal once. I have also ran 30-40 hertz for nearly a minute and it has never gotten hot. When I first installed it I considered installing a computer fan to keep air moving but never did because there was no need. If you think about it there isn't that much air movement behind the rear seat either.

jwanck11

Appreciate the perspectives/responses!!

I'd consider behind the seat, but it looks in my 2011 there is no easy way to remove the seat back. Maybe I've missed the thread where it's explained, but I can't find it. The '11 is not like earlier models where the long screw driver trick will work

sharper4

Search the '09+ forum. There's a thread with pics and even a video that show how to lower the rear seats. Basically, there's a little latch / **** on the back which you can reach if the seat is in the "up" position. You might need to use a piece of string or something. Its on the "inside" facing side of the actual seat latch but once you figure out where it is you'll learn to grab it relatively easily.

Anyhow, pull the latch and the seat falls completely forward.

HTXfX4

I use a box end wrench to pull it, very easy to do.

jwanck11

So, the amp is in the center console which turns out a great place to put it! I have quick and easy access to gains to customize to taste. Wire running/cable management was a breeze! I have run the system hard and the unit barely got warm. It is an Alpine 4+1 that powers front components, rears and a JL audio 13" stealth sub.

Thanks again for all of the perspectives!!

MileHighFX2

How did your build end up? You satisfied with it???
I'm in the process of going with 4 jl's under my seat too.