Overloaded speakers?

Howdy, I'm currently installing a Pioneer DEH-P2400 head into my '03 Cavalier. The installation itself went smooth, mounting, wiring, running the switched 12 volt lead. The problem is, when i turn the volume past 10 (1/3rd), the OEM speakers crackle like the head unit is going to blow the voice coils through the doors. I'd like to know whats going on. I've been told by one person (an audio installer at best buy) that the OEM speakers just cant handle the added power from the pioneer head. Is this true? If so, I already have a full set of 4x6 and 6x9s from a previous car, all Orions. I'm just reluctant to install the high end speakers and still experience the same problem. Thanks in advance Daemos

You used the proper wiring harness?

yes, the wiring harness is the proper one, Metra, 71-2003-1. All the wiring was properly done, with soldered connections throughout.

Okay, instead of risking your good speakers you could try a pair of cheap coaxials on the fronts (no need to install) in place of the OEMs.  Aftermarket speakers would handle more power than OEM.  Set the fade to front and see if the same thing happens.  But I wouldn't think that an aftermarket deck would have so much more power than the factory deck had.  I would look the deck up but Pioneer's site is not lurker-friendly.

the pioneer head is a 160x4 = 40/channel. the OEM head was, i believe 12 watts/channel.

Put bass blockers on the oem speakers. They will improve the speakers' power handling dramatically. New Project: 2003 Pathfinder

The pioneer is probobly putting out around 16 to 18 watts RMS pre channel at best. That is what most aftermarket head unit's RMS output is.

GM uses some 2ohm speakers in their systems, which could be putting an extra load on the head unit. 

okay so basically the speakers arent being overpowered, but the head is being overloaded. Replacing the OEM speakers would be my best option then, for me at least, considering i have a full set of 4 ohm speakers.