5speed6 v.2

<b>I wanted to do something different with the amp rack I was going to install.

My goal was:

- not to lose as much space as possible.
- being able to access the amps for tuning or servicing purposes.
-stealth, non-exposed installation.

After much thought and looking at different materials, I decided on using sliding trays sold for computer server racks.

I mounted two of the sliding trays together, side by side and added heavy duty "L" brackets at the corners and in the middle:

<img src="http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q144/aw5speed6/StereoInstall/SlidingTrays_joined.jpg">

Side view of the trays:
<img src="http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q144/aw5speed6/StereoInstall/SlidingTrays_joined2.jpg">

View of the trays operating independently:
<img src="http://s135.photobucket.com/albums/q144/aw5speed6/StereoInstall/SlidingTrays_joined3.jpg">

I test fit the amps for best position with regards to cable, fuse access &amp; front panel access..

2 Alpine amps test fitted:
<img src="http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q144/aw5speed6/StereoInstall/AlpineAmpsTestFit.jpg">

a/d/s 8 channel amp test fitted:
<img src="http://s135.photobucket.com/albums/q144/aw5speed6/StereoInstall/adsAmpTestFit.jpg">

I had to cut off a 1/4" lip on one side of both trays for the amps to sit properly.

Action shot, using air powered "whizz wheel":
<img src="http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q144/aw5speed6/StereoInstall/CuttingAmprack1.jpg">

One Alpine amp is mounted and protected in the foreground.

I then mounted the trays under the rear deck, secured with #10 machine screws, lock washers and nuts.

Trays installed under rear deck:
<img src="http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q144/aw5speed6/StereoInstall/SlidingAmpRackInstalled.jpg">

Drivers side tray slid outward:
<img src="http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q144/aw5speed6/StereoInstall/AlpineOnTray.jpg">

Passenger side tray slid outward:
<img src="http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q144/aw5speed6/StereoInstall/adsOnTray.jpg">

Both trays slid outward:
<img src="http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q144/aw5speed6/StereoInstall/AmpsOnTrayInCar.jpg">

After this, LOTS of wiring followed, for the power, speakers and signal. After all the wiring was loomed up and secured, all the trunk panels were replaced.

I then made a carboard template of the area in front of the amp trays. It is actaully quite curved at the top. Once I had a nice fit, I traced it onto 1/4" medium-density fiberboard (mdf). After cutting out the wood, belt sanding, and test fitting, I applied spray glue and covered it with a pretty close matching carpet.

Here is the panel installed.
<img src="http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q144/aw5speed6/StereoInstall/AmpRackPanel1.jpg">

It is tightly press-fit at the sides and held in by a single securing fastener in the middle.

Close up of the fastener(attached to the center bracket):
<img src="http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q144/aw5speed6/StereoInstall/AmpRackPanel3.jpg">

I believe I have succeeded in meeting the criteria of my goal for this project.

Thanks for reading



</b>

Kris Hansen

Nice!!!!!!! How are they locked in place, so when you launch hard, they don't slide back?

EuroVWGTi

when can you do mine :P

5speed6 v.2

...across the rails at the center, and each side in the front. Rock solid!

<img src="http://www.unitedmfrs.com/items/detail/2981.jpg">

2000 A6 2.7t 6m

Looks Good!! Same place I mounted my amps, but mine don't slide out

Audeye A6

Wow..very clean !!!

Kris Hansen

Nice!!! Can't wait to see, and hear this in person!

Press

looks great

5speed6 v.2

...and lock you in the car for a half hour.

Bring a good action movie.

4Driver4

Curses! Pics blocked at work. Now I'll have to run home at lunch.