85 GMC Sierra "Scarlett"

[N2TRUX]

When I posted this on Instagram I was asked why I didn't re-use the www.73-87.com 6x9 mounting plates.

To clarify, I must say that Jeff has an excellent designed product that was simple to install, and offers fantastic form and function for a small price.

They worked perfectly with the storage tray Chris and I had built. With Kicker Audio getting involved on this build I wanted an opportunity to improve my design skills and create an enclosure that combined storage as well as house the Hideaway sub and 6x9 coaxial speakers.

To maximize the storage space, the angle of the 6x9s needed to be changed or they would be firing toward the side of the enclosure. I chose to create new mounts for the 6x9s rather than modify the design that Jeff created.

I am still very much a fan of the www.73-87.com plates. Any time I want a quick and effective install they will be my choice.

[rustytruck50]

If you haven't done it yet, you need one of those build books that guys display at the shows...these pictures are invaluable.

[N2TRUX]

Originally Posted by rustytruck50

If you haven't done it yet, you need one of those build books that guys display at the shows...these pictures are invaluable.

I wouldn'tknow where to begin. I have over 1000 pics on this build saved.

[N2TRUX]

Yesterday I worked on the Hideaway sub enclosure again. I started off using measurements from the old storage tray. I finally decided it was hurting rather than helping so the process requires a lot of fitment time to ensure each step of the design fits.
You may find this shocking but these old trucks are not square.

Combine that with sound deader, wires and various humps and bumps that throw your measurements off and getting to things square becomes a challenge.
With that said I am a few steps closer to having the center section of the enclosure complete.

[N2TRUX]

Yesterday I worked on the @kickeraudio #hideaway enclosure. The center structure is complete so it's time to dress it up.
I cut strips of lauan board and glued them in place. This will work as support for the bezel surrounding the Hideaway sub enclosure. Once these are set I can build mounts for the sub.

[blazer2007]

how do you secure the box to the cab ?

[N2TRUX]

Originally Posted by blazer2007

how do you secure the box to the cab ?

I havent decided whats going to work best yet. With the additional weight of the Kicker hideaway sub i will probably consider bolting it down through the floor.

[N2TRUX]

I have been slowly working on the Kicker Hideaway sub box a little each evening. I decided to change the design of this box from the past two I have built. This version has a back panel thats removable. Hopefully this design will allow easier access when I wrap it in vinyl. Consequently it has created another challenge to overcome.

Since the back is built from 1/4" lauan board, I dont feel it would be a proper attachment point for the Hideaway sub. My thoughts are the weight might be an issue, and the sub needs a solid mounting to prevent unwanted vibration.

This all equates to a more complicated mounting procedure that I think I may have resolved. I tested my theory with some scrap aluminum channel last night. The channel is to tall for the top end and pushes the sub enclosure farther out than I want it to protrude. I plan to replace it with aluminum angle that will be mounted to the side divider brace rather than the back.

Note.-
1. The pieces of MDF you see under the sub are temporary. I cut wedge shaped pieces to slide up or down to allow me to set the height of the sub. Once the sub is mounted they will be removed.
2. I choose to use the minimum amount of screws to hold everything together and keep it square. More screws and wood dowels will be added on final assembly.
3. The top of the box appears to sag in the middle. Its just an illusion that does not exist. I have laid a straight edge on it several times to ensure it is square.

[N2TRUX]

Scarlett gets her groove on! Easter Edition.
I spent some time at my buddy's shop yesterday using his professional grade tools. His company builds oil and gas displays and models so he has a wood shop filled with top of the line tools.
We decided with the ability to make extremely precise cuts we would make a new lid.

I located the threaded inserts to attach the aluminum angle I used as mounting brackets to hold the @kickeraudio #hideaway powered sub properly in place. These inserts allow secure mounting without running a bolt through which would be exposed.
I replaced a couple of other pieces that I wasn't happy with, and put it all back together once more. Now I can do another test fit in the cab before gluing and screwing all the pieces together.

[N2TRUX]

I was looking for router table ideas and came across several audio builders videos. I noticed in one he had set a piece of wood on a trash can to use as a drilling station. This gave me an idea.
I used scrap from a an attic storage project to make a work table. I cut strips to mount underneath to lock it in place.
It's simple to build and I can roll it wherever I'm working. I think I will cut a hole in the middle so I don't have to remove it to clean shaving off.

[N2TRUX]

Last night I made a little progress. I spent time designing mounting points for the Kicker Hideaway cover. I decided to use Velcro strips so I made blocks to place the hook and loop pads on. Each one had to be sanded to fit before gluing in and clamped in place.

While the glue was drying I fine tuned the fit and finish section at a time. Each screw hole was counter sunk and a piece of a wooden toothpick was dropped in with a dab of wood glue. This gives the screw a lot more bite and allows you to get a tighter fit.

[mcbassin]

Very nice clean work on the enclosure Ken! I'd like to get a pair of small ones for my truck when you're done

[N2TRUX]

Originally Posted by mcbassin

Very nice clean work on the enclosure Ken! I'd like to get a pair of small ones for my truck when you're done

Mike what are you looking for exactly?

[N2TRUX]

Since my plans for adding lighted acrylic on the perimeter didnt work out, I opted to go with direct LED lighting. I plan to run it around the Hideaway sub and inside the storage trays for ambience lighting. It will be hidden so the light will be a soft red glow.

[mcbassin]

Originally Posted by N2TRUX

Mike what are you looking for exactly?

I'd like to have some slim enclosures to slip behind my buckets. I'm not huge on premium audio at all but right now all I have is my kick panel speakers.

[N2TRUX]

Originally Posted by mcbassin

I'd like to have some slim enclosures to slip behind my buckets. I'm not huge on premium audio at all but right now all I have is my kick panel speakers.

Message me your number so we can share some pics. I have a couple of options you might like.

[N2TRUX]

Originally Posted by blazer2007

how do you secure the box to the cab ?

I decided to bolt it down through the bottom of the storage box. We measured and marked in the center of each side. I drilled and tapped the floor of the cab. I plan to add sealer when we secure it on the final install

[N2TRUX]

Chris and did the final fitment on the storage box. We mocked up the LED light strips and assembled once again. .
We installed the @kickeraudio
#hideaway sub back in the cab and bolted it in place. I built a raised platform that was bolted through the floor. These bolts extended through the box where the #kmc20 processor is stored. We used the mounting stud as a ground point.
All the system wires are routed around the perimeter and along the trans tunnel. They are held in place and protected by duct tape.
It's slowly going back together. I can't wait to test fire the system.

[carboncrew]

Looks great though! That box is perfect

[N2TRUX]

Originally Posted by carboncrew

Looks great though! That box is perfect

Thanks buddy, its finally taking shape.

[N2TRUX]

You would think since I mock things up in cardboard and assemble, then reassemble multiple times I wouldnt have to make serious adjustments late in the game. Unfortunately all my planning for the 6x9 boxes was off by an inch. The original design that I mocked up in cardboard was going to be very difficult to wrap and secure properly so I redesigned it a bit.

Unfortunately the new design requires me to add another inch to the box, which means subtracting an inch from each end of the Kicker Hideaway storage box. Once again, I disassembled the main box and made the necessary modifications. Now I can move forward with the Kicker 6x9 coaxial boxes.

Heres my progress from this weeks shop sessions.

[Precision Parts]

Looking great Ken!!

Did you ever get those vent assemblies re-seated?

- Derek

[N2TRUX]

Originally Posted by Precision Parts

Looking great Ken!!

Did you ever get those vent assemblies re-seated?

- Derek

Derek I have not made it to the doors yet. I have an issue with one of the rods jumping off the clip that I need to address as well. I will do a full photo coverage when I install the seals correctly.

[N2TRUX]

Saturday was another day of design changes. From my previous build, I knew the corners were difficult due to the angles and curves. I tried my best to simplify this design but it was a battle.
I ended up with a better design only to discover the trim ring and grill stuck out to far and hit the seat back. I left the shop feeling defeated.

Chris came over Sunday and finished wiring the system. I made another new front for the 6x9 enclosure. With version 4.0 I found a way to lower the speaker and recess it in the enclosure. These mods allowed the seat to clear.

Chris triple checked his work and we reconnected the battery. No sign of smoke and the #kmc20 display came to life. Even though the rear speakers arent in place Chris started the tuning process.
Big smiles and fist bumps were abundant. The Kicker Audio install was finally live and sounded fantastic already.

[aggie91]

Looks good!