The Plan:

Create a removable subwoofer and amplifier assembly which will sound great during the week and be very simple to remove for autocross on the weekends. For a sub, I went with the BassLink II for several reasons. First, I had the original BassLink in my 240SX for years and it sounded great. Second, it would save me the trouble of creating a custom sealed box. Third, it was on sale at Crutchfield with a 4-channel amp included.


The Parts:

(1) Infinity BassLink II with BassLink 4SC amplifier ($349.99)
(1) Mazda Cargo Organizer ($48)
(1) Rockford Fosgate 10 gauge amp wiring kit ($19.99)
(1) StreetWires 1/0-gague firewall bushing ($9.99)
(3) Port Tube 3" subwoofer ports ($14.97)
(1) MSD-8183 2-pin Deutsch connector kit ($7.30)
(2) MSD-8185 8-pin Deutsch connector kit ($40.00)
(1) MSD-8187 4-pin 12-gauge Deutsch connector kit ($31.10)
(1) 8 ft. sq. Dynamat roll ($30)
(1) 25 ft roll of speaker wire
(1) Can of black spray paint
Various MDF lumber, wood screws, wood glue, etc...

Total cost to build: $551.34


Step 1: The Cargo Organizer



The idea was to fortify the cargo organizer with MDF and layer it with Dynamat so it would be strong enough to support the sub. The indent in the trunk seemed like a good place for a sub anyway, and the lid on the organizer would give me a place to hide all the cables. The first step was to trim the basket to make room for the BassLink.


Step 2: The Mounting Platform







I used 1/4" MDF for the main piece with a 1/2" MDF back-bone for added support. The C-shaped piece on the left supports another piece of 1/2" MDF below. The Dynamat is to keep the plastic tray from rattling against the wood base.


Step 3: The Lid Support





Because of the design of the BassLink II, one of the 10" speakers fires down. To avoid the flimsy cargo organizer lid flapping around when the bass hits, I built a 1/2" MDF support. The plan was to install three 3" ports in the lid and support to let the air and sound out.


Step 4: The Hole





Cutting a hole the exact shape of the BassLink II was not easy. I used many paper and cardboard templates before I got it right. The result is great, with no more than 1/8" gap around the base of the sub.


Step 5: The Trunk







Here's what it looks like mounted in the trunk. For me, there is plenty of room around the BassLink for the trunk to remain useful. And if were ever to get in the way, I could always take it out.


Steps 6:: The Wiring





The plan was to use the MSD Deutsch connectors for all power, input, and output connections so the entire assembly could be removed for autocross. The Deutsch connectors are similar to Weather-Pack, but with a more diverse assortment of sizes.

I was going to set it up with an 8-pin connector carrying speaker-level inputs to the amp and another 8-pin connector carrying the amplified signal back out to the speakers. I was also planning to configure the system so I could connect the inputs and outputs together and power all 4 speakers from the factory stereo when the amp was removed.

All wires were to enter the cargo organizer from the rear and would be hidden from view with the box installed. The power and speaker wires would store inside the small tool tray when not in use, so there would be no ugly wires to look at when the box is out.


Step 7: The Leftovers








Long story short, I'm giving up on this project. I have all the pieces to make it work, but I am moving next month and need the money. I would love to see another RX8 owner finish this project, but if not I'll probably just sell the BassLink through eBay.

I'll be posting this in the classified section shortly for $200. Located in San Diego.


Thanks,

Dave

 

maybe i missed something, but why did you get the 1/0gauge firewall bushing?

 

Good question. I was going to use the firewall bushing on the lid of the cargo tray where the cables go from the side of the sub down into the box. Just for aesthetics. I also have braided wire cover and heat shrink tubing to keep everything neat and tidy.

Thanks, Dave

 

oh i see. i thought you were using it with the 10 gauge amp kit.