How to Make a Box Design for a Car Stereo

Custom Box Design

My Own

User-Submitted Article

A box design for a system can range from a simple box to a full-trunk fiberglass enclosure. I will start with just a simple box design, but please be sure to check my other articles for other designs.

A simple box can be fairly easy to build. I will write this in relation to 2 12" subs and one amp. When building a box for your trunk, your subs should point towards the rear of the car. Depending on depth of trunk you can either put your amp on top, or on the opposite side as the subs.

1. Measure your trunk where you will place the box. You usually want the box to fit snug, but make sure not to make it too big, I would plan on 1/4"-1/2" small than your trunk.
   
2. After you have your measurements, cut the wood. A table saw works best for this. With 2 12" subs, your box design will be rectangular, so 4 pieces (the sides) will be long, and the 2 end pieces will be more squares.
   
3. After your wood is cut, you will need to cut out 2 12" holes for your subs. This is best done with a jig saw. If you bought the subs new, most subs come with a template to draw a circle. DO NOT make a circle the full width of the sub...it wont fit. There is a lip around the edge of the sub that you will screw the sub into the wood. Your hole will not be 12" wide. All subs are different, but your hole should be around 11.5 inches, but check with your subs first.
   
4. After the sub holes are cut, you need to decide if you want a vented or a box that is not vented. A fully enclosed box works best for rap. Vented boxes are more for those who like rock or punk and want some bass. Either works great. You can either cut 2 1-2 inch holes and leave it, or buy vents at your local audio store.
   
5. 5
   Now, lets put the box together. Set the pieces up and start screwing the box together. Make sure to use very thin screws, or nails...whichever you like. MDF is easily cracked by screws.
   
6. After your box is together, this is where I like to use fiberglass or a sealant. Please look at my other articles for how to prepare fiberglass. After your fiberglass is ready, pour it in all the corners on the inside of the box. Us a paint brush if you have to. You will have to let some of it dry before you can do the top side. (this helps with keeping air in, and adding sturdiness)
   
7. After your box is sealed, you will need to sand any edges that might be out of shape.
   
8. Before you place the subs, you need to decide where you will place the amp. Where ever you decide, you will need to drill a VERY small hole for your speaker wire. You will have 2 sets of wires going through, so the hole does not need to be that big.
   
9. 9
   Time to wrap the box. Carpet, Suede, whatever you want. Because your sides will not be seen, make sure to make the carpet a little wider than the box, so you can wrap it on the sides. Use spray glue to glue the carpet, this will hold great!
   
10. After you box is wrapped, place your subs in and screw them down. Make sure to have them wired first. Then place your amp and screw it in. Wire it, and you are good to go.