JaredC01

Hi all,

I just picked up my 2018 XLT, on a lease, and I'm looking at upgrading my non-Sony Sync 3 system in an easily-removable option in case I don't buy the truck after the lease. I have a lot of equipment from previous cars (and builds destined for previous cars), so I'd like to use / reuse what I can for the truck instead of buying new. I may leave the speakers if I turn the vehicle in, but I'm not decided on that just yet.

Anyway, here's what I've got:

• 2 sets of Polk Audio MM6501, still new in box (6.5 in components).
• JL Audio XD700/5v2 5-channel amplifier.
• JL Audio 12W3v3-2 12" Subwoofer.

I would like to replace all 4 doors with the 6.5" components, which will require adapters for the front doors. Does anyone have a recommendation on adapter brackets, or should I go for the MDF / Plywood route? I also don't recall there being tweeters in the rear doors in the 7-speaker system, so I'm not sure if there are locations to install the rear tweeters or not, any input there would be helpful.

For the front speakers, I'd like to run them active, however I do not want to add another amplifier for the rear speakers, so I'll probably end up running the speakers with the crossovers.

The subwoofer is obviously not going to fit behind the rear seats, which is absolutely what I want to do, so I'll probably look for alternatives. I'm not opposed to making my own enclosure, if anyone has suggestions for a good 10" or 12" shallow subwoofer that's not super expensive, it's appreciated.

Lastly, I'll most likely be using the Parrot harness that everyone uses, and disabling the front center channel. I'm interested in a DSP, but not one that breaks the bank. If there's an option under $250, I'll probably go for a DSP to at least attempt to level out the audio from the system.

Ajb1205

Here's a link to my build on my '18 XLT.

https://www.f150forum.com/f30/2018-f...-build-408913/

Components in the rear are a bit overkill, but since you have the speakers already, its definitely doable...you will just have to figure out how and where to mount the tweeters.

I have a JL 10" TW3 and it still impresses me and many of my friends think I'm running multiple subs. MTI Acoustics does have a box that will fit a 10" shallow sub behind the seats and is something I may look at closer this summer.

Good call on the center speaker, as well. It's not needed once you begin upgrading everything else.

Teaberry

Do you have a link to the MTI behind seat box? I only see the "under seat" options. Thanks!

JaredC01

I'll look into the TW3 line. Thanks for the info.

HushCarAudio

JaredC01 let me know if you want pricing on them via PM.

Ajb1205

If you go onto their facebook page you can see them there. Not cheap by any means but it will be one of my next purchases this spring.

Krazymarine

iTrader: (3)

in order to gain space behind the seat I used LMI straight Ahead kit. # LMI 1520 SA http://www.lmiwelding.com/order.htm now I can fit 2 JL Audio 10tw3's behind my fear seat without any issues.
For harness adapter behind the radio I first ordered the CARAV 12-240 from Germany via E-bay https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Carav-12-...Bm5B:rk:1:pf:0 (like $24-25 after rate exchange), After I had ordered the Harness from Germany, I found out that Metra makes their own DSP ( https://axxessinterfaces.com/product/AX-DSP ) and have two harness that fit both trucks (Non-Sony ( https://axxessinterfaces.com/product/AX-DSP-FD2?Year=2017&Make=Ford&Model=F-150&Submodel=XLT&TrimOption%5B0%5D=w%2F+4.2%22+scr een ) and Sony I think this is the Sony harness. ( https://axxessinterfaces.com/product/AX-AB-FD1?Year=2017&Make=Ford&Model=F-150&Submodel=Lariat&TrimOption%5B0%5D=w%2F+4%22+or +8%22+screen&TrimOption%5B1%5D=w%2F+SYNC+3 I'm not sure since I do not own a Sony System on my truck) , since you have the 2018 XLT Non-Sony I'm almost certain you have the same harness behind the radio as my truck (2017 XLT Non-Sony)
As per sub's I personally like JL Audio TW series however, pioneer shallow mounts are great subs when placed on the right box (They are also very forgiving to not the right air space +/-).
I hope this helps you out.
Good luck

JaredC01

Great info all around, thank you all!

kabin

Any progress on selecting a DSP? Are you considering a DSP/Amp combo? Seems like a cost effective way to go but I have no experience regarding resulting SQ.

I have a 2018 XLT SCREW and am currently ruining my ears by listening to the factory 7 speaker non-B&O system.

Full disclosure - my plan is to steal all I can from what you do. Just kidding, really appreciate any info you share.

JaredC01

I'm actually looking REAL hard at the Dayton Audio DSP-408. It's right at $150, and it looks like it has everything I'd need. Gonna start ordering parts here soon, and I'll have to put together a new thread when I start building.

Right now, I need to pick up the harness adapter, the DSP, a new subwoofer, adapters for the front speakers to 6.5" components, and I need to build a box behind the rear seat. I'll probably be spending about $500 on those parts, not including what I already have.