Tech Tip – Securing Your Subwoofer Enclosure
We often get asked for tricks on how to improve bass in a vehicle. One of the most overlooked aspects when installing a subwoofer enclosure into a vehicle is making sure it is fastened down tight. A subwoofer can release a tremendous amount of energy when playing, so if the enclosure is left loose it will actually move around as the bass notes hit. This causes a loss in bass energy and can result in decreased bass output as well as response that is less accurate and sharp. Fastening the enclosure down can help solve this issue and result in better sounding bass.
There are a few ways the enclosure can be fastened down.
Our first choice is to run 1/2-inch diameter bolts through the bottom of the enclosure and bolt it directly through the floor of the vehicle. This is the most secure method and provides great security since it will be difficult to remove the enclosure. Drill holes that are just large enough to run the bolts through and then use silicone or similar sealant along with flat washers inside the enclosure so that there are no air leaks. Then use flat and lock washers under the vehicle so the bolts do not loosen up.
If you do not wish to drill through the vehicle another option is to bolt “L” brackets to the cargo floor of the vehicle and then through the enclosure.
The final option if you do not wish to drill into the enclosure itself is to attach brackets to the cargo floor or interior metal and then use an adjustable strap to hold the enclosure in place. While this is not quite as secure as the other two methods it is still a better option than leaving the enclosure loose. It is also nice in applications where it is necessary to remove the enclosure from time to time.
Always check before drilling any holes in your vehicle to make sure that you will not be drilling through a gas tank, brake line, wiring harness or other vital vehicle system. It is also a good idea to coat any exposed metal to reduce the risk of rusting.