Amp Install

Try this: http://www.eatel.net/~amptech/elecdisc/caraudio.htm

for a very good start on what you need to do. Be sure to check out the fusing page.

You should use a 4 gauge amp kit for the amplifier. This will allow you to upgrade the system at anytime and you won't need to replace any wires until you surpass the wattage capacity of the amp kit ( about 1000 watts ). Most of these 4 gauge amp kits run about $ 35 - $ 60 range depending on the brand name & the package content.

4 gauge, eh? I was actually thinking of purchasing an 8 gauge install kit from ebay or a local store since I go for SQ and not SPL. My ancient Alpine F505 or whatever only puts out 2x50W and will be running in bridge mode. At most, I only plan to add a 4 channel amp to run the new JL audio components. Would you still recommend a 4 gauge kit or would 8 be enough?

Now, to find the proper routing through my Integra and Mystique...

Oh yeah, are you the same velocitymotorsport that sells on ebay? Any particular "brands" of install kits you recommend? Thanks.

I would still recommend a 4 gauge kit for future upgrades and an 8 guage is only rated at about 400 - 500 watts MAX . You will not have to worry about the wire heating up and melting your carpet if you use a thicker gauge wire as well, it will be more efficient if you use a larger gauge right off the bat.

Routing the cable on both vehicles will be different. Make sure you run the RCA's on opposite sides of the power wire and the speaker wires. What I ususally do on larger more complicated installations is take out the carpet completely and run the RCA's down the middle of the car , the power down the driver side and the speaker wires down the passenger side. I'm not sure about the gromets available on the two models that you have to work on but you should be able to find empty firewall gromets taht you can pop out and drill a hole to pass the wire through.

If there are not gromets available you can always go through the steering wheel boot or drill a new hole if you have to.