A kickpanel pod, like this model in a 1992-94 Chevrolet truck, positions your speakers for great stereo imaging. Plus, they match your interior!

Custom woofer installation

Nothing competes with placing your speakers in the location that you determine emits the best possible sound. You may even end up locating your woofers in locations that don't already have speaker holes. In that case, you need to make some. Here's what you need to know.

Kick panels

Q-Logic custom kick panel pods provide a great way to install your components. The pods enable you to aim and position the speakers in a way that maximizes sound imaging — as close to equidistant from your ears as possible. Using a kick panel pod also eliminates the need to run wires through your door (some vehicles may require bending the parking break). Your Q-form comes with detailed installation instructions. If a Q-Form kick panel is available for your vehicle, you can mount both the woofer and tweeter in the custom-fit enclosure.

Creating a custom speaker hole

First, remove the speaker template from the box and make sure that the surface you'll be cutting can accommodate the size of the woofer. Also check to make sure nothing behind the door panel will obstruct the speaker. For instance, will the window still move freely once the speaker's in place? Will the door open and swing out without interference? Is the locking mechanism unimpeded? You should double check before making any adjustments.

Top-mount your speakers for ease of installation. Bottom mount them for a sleek look.

Top-mount vs. bottom-mount

Second, will you top-mount or bottom-mount your speakers? In a top-mount, the lip of the speaker rests over the edge of the hole. This method usually requires less mounting depth and a little less labor. A bottom-mount involves recessing the entire speaker into the hole so that no part protrudes — perfect if you need to create clean lines. If you plan on mounting your tweeter on the woofer, however, the tweeter may stick out slightly from the woofer plane. Since you will need to fit the grille over the speaker, make sure the speaker protrusion does not exceed the grille depth.

Measure twice, cut once

Once you have decided on the location and mounting depth, use the template as a guide to cutting your hole. A bottom-mount hole may need to be larger than a top-mount hole. If bottom-mounting, check to see if you need a mounting ring and if the instructions suggest cutting a certain hole size. Trace your hole on the back side of the door panel, lay the panel on a flat, clean surface, and carefully cut the hole (a sharp utility knife works well on plastic).

Double check to make sure you're not interfering with a major door function (like window mobility) before you cut!

On cutting metal

You may be able to find a speaker location which already overlaps with an existing hole. If not, you'll need to drill a hole large enough in which to fit a jigsaw. Make sure your jigsaw has a metal-cutting blade. If cutting a small area, you may use a hacksaw instead. When drilling or cutting, always wear eye protection. Do not cut the door panel and the metal at the same time; you may rip the panel covering. Wrapping the base of the saw with electrical tape may prevent scratching of the surface metal as well. Keep the blade from touching the car's exterior panel, as it can cause pock marks.