Amplifier Ground Strap Installation

NOTE:
The installation of the amplifier ground straps requires access to the area below the fixed side windows. The amplifiers ("FM ONLY" and "FM/AM") will need to be switched over, transposing the right side amplifier into the left side position and left side amplifier into the right side position.

1. Remove the left and right parcel tray support panels.

2. Disconnect the left and right side amplifier electrical and antenna connectors, and remove both amplifiers.





NOTE:
The left side amplifier screw is partially blocked by the sub woofer funnel. To help ease the removal of left side amplifier, remove the two top fasteners from the sub woofer and tilt the unit slightly to gain access to the amplifier screw (figure 6).

3. Use emery cloth to clean the weld nut holes on both sides of the vehicle. The holes are located approximately 6 inches forward from the amplifier front mounting holes. Make sure that clean metal is showing around the hole (figure 6).

4. Attach the ground straps (one on left side and one on the right) with the fiat side of eyelet against the vehicle body. Secure with a plain washer and trilobular (paint clearing) bolt (figure 6).





5. Measure the resistance's between the ground strap and the fixed wire terminal that is attached to the side window glass (figures 6 and 7). The readings should be over range or in excess of 20 Meg ohms (open circuit). If readings are within specification go to step 9.

NOTE:
Some earlier production vehicles may contain fixed side window glass sealer that is conductive to electricity. This is the reason why the resistance test must be performed if any sealer is exposed.

6. If the reading is less than 20 meg ohms, remove the necessary E post trim panel(s) to gain access to the fixed wire connection.

7. Clear away any polyurethane (PU) adhesive that is contaminating the connection point. The contamination may be due to PU adhesive creeping under the tape covering the connection.

8. Clean the connection(s) and recheck resistance reading(s). If the reading(s) is within specification, reinstall the "E" post trim panel(s) and continue with the next step.

9. Install the "AM/FM" amplifier to the left side position.

10. Fasten ground strap to the front mounting point of the amplifier.

11. Install the "FM only" amplifier to the right side position.

12. Fasten ground strap to the front mounting point of the amplifier.

13. Reinstall the subwoofer and the parcel tray support panels.