Specifications

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Car Audio Reference Guide
Car Audio Reference Guide
This section of the 2006 Clarion Application
Guide provides some basic guidelines, tips and
tricks related to the installation and design of
a car audio system. This section in no way
replaces proper training, certification, mentorship
and experience.
Tools
Clarion recommends
that high quality tools be
used at all times. The use
of quality tools ensure
proper engagement with
fasteners, a reduced
chance of stripping,
rounding over or damage to the vehicle. This
applies to socket sets, screwdrivers, crimpers,
pliers, wrenches, wire strippers and so forth.
Clarion recommends that only a high
quality Digital Multimeter be used
for testing ALL electrical circuits.
Test lights can cause damage to
automotive computer systems,
resulting in expensive repairs.
When installing mobile security,
convenience and
remote starts, you
commonly have to
probe many wires. A
tool that makes this
very easy is the Power
Probe II. It will indicate
both 12V or Ground
both with an LED and an audible tone - meaning
you don't need to 'read' a display. It will also
provide power and ground at the test probe tip
- ideal for testing door locks and other electrical
components.
Clarion strongly recommends that all electrical
connections be soldered. A properly performed
solder connection will start with a good solid
mechanical connection - ie: The wires should
already have a strong mechanical connections
- typically twisted together. Once the mechanical
connection has been established, then the
connection can be heated thoroughly with
the soldering iron and solder flowed into the
connection. Soldering provides an airtight
connection that helps to prevent corrosion.
Once the solder connection is complete and has
cooled, wrap the connection tightly with good
quality electrical tape. Clarion recommends 3M
vinyl tape.
An alternative, though less reliable than soldering
is the use of high quality, properly sized butt
connectors and a good quality crimping tool.
Clarion recommends the Klein 1005 or equivalent
crimping tool.
Clarion does not recommend the 'twist and tape'
method of making electrical connections.
Vehicle preparation and precaution
Before beginning work on a vehicle, inspect
it thoroughly for pre-existing damage or non-
functioning circuitry. Show the customer any
problems BEFORE you begin work on the
vehicle.
If you will be required to disconnect the battery,
ensure that you have the security code for the
source unit - if applicable.
When working under the hood, use fender cov-
ers at all times to prevent damage. Use magnetic
screw trays to hold nuts, bolts and screws, and
store all tools on a cart next to the vehicle. Do
not rest tools on the engine, cowl or fender of
the car.
When working inside the car use carpet and seat
protectors. If you will be making electrical con-
nections, protect the area below where you are
working with a drop cloth capable of handling
drops of solder.