Stereo Headunit replacement.. "challenges" - 986 Forum - The Community for Porsche Boxster & Cayman Owners

entwistlea · 09-11-2011, 10:03 AM

Had a good look around here and elsewhere on t'internet but can;t seem to find help on this one. I know that ICE upgrades are challenging ( my last boxster had BOSE !) but i'm just trying to do a simply headunit swap as i'm happy enough with the speakers, just want the ability for ipod and bluetooth..

I have a pioneer headunit and have got the "correct" adaptor to alledgedly make it a simple swap job, but of course nothing is ever that easy.

The car is a 2001 Boxster with Amp and 4 speakers, but not BOSE or MOST. I've connected the headunit up via the connector adaptor, it powers and plays and i get sound out the top right speaker, but not the other 3. The adaptor has 4 audio leads that connect to the headunit and the adaptor converts them into the wiring harness to the amp. I've swapped the audio plus around, but no matter which way ( FL, RL, RR, FR)... i still only get sound out the front right speaker ( whith high pitched engine interferance through the left)... I've connected teh becker back up and all 4 work as normal...

Anyone else had this issue, any help much appreciated !!

Andy

KevinH1990 · 09-11-2011, 02:49 PM

I'm not sure I know the solution to the problem, but here are some things to consider:

1. You say that you "swapped the audio plug around". Are you satisfied that you do not have a defective adapter or head unit?

2. You wrote that you have an amp in the front trunk. Most head units have a set of outputs designed to go to an amp and a set designed to go directly to the speakers. Some have only a set designed to go the speakers. The first is not amplified and the second is. If you bought the type of head unit that only has speaker outputs or you are using the wrong set of outputs, then you would be sending a signal to the amp that is too strong for it to handle. Google the term "line out converter" for more information on this topic and a possible solution.

3. Be sure everything is properly grounded.

Good luck.

SF-Rockster · 09-12-2011, 12:56 PM

^solid advice!

entwistlea · 09-18-2011, 08:55 AM

Thanks Kevin

Its def coming from the pre out not the speaker out (audio plus), the fact that only the right works is what is most confusing! I've sent the lead back to be replaced and am hoping its as simple as that ...

If not i fear a rewire and swap the factory amp for one i have knocking around will do !!