Novak Conversions Jeep Wrangler TJ engine mounts

Installing my sound Ordnance B-8PTD with 3D printed replacement center console tray

DMopar97

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My 2005 Rubicon LJ came with a subwoofer center console, without the subwoofer/amp enclosure that mounts inside. Just empty space. So I bought a sound ordnance B-8PTD. I taped a piece of flexible foam to the bottom of it so it wouldn't rattle. The sub "fit' in my center console in the same way that middle aged women "fit" in the same clothes they wore in high school. It made me unhappy, and it caused the center console to rattle. Not to mention the existing tray with all its CD slots is kind of obnoxious and useless. So I found a 3D printed tray replacement, printed it out, and it works great. I have about an inch of clearance, much better access, and no rattle. The tray doesn't fit perfectly in one section, but fits great in all the ways that matter. I had plans to design my own, but this works for now. Some day I'd like to make one that screws in, instead of just sets in. I'd also make it 3/4" inch deeper. If I do that, I'll update this thread.

Here's a link to the center console tray I used: https://makerworld.com/en/models/252773#profileId-269116 - I printed it using supports, with the "rim" up top. I used PETG. Obviously ABS would be better, but I don't have ABS, and I've had good luck with PETG in vehicles.

You'll need to remove the console, and drill out the rivets holding the existing tray in place.

As for my subwoofer install, I used wiring from the factory harness for Constant 12v (20a OEM fuse), remote/Key on 12v, and ground. I don't recall the exact colors, but it was easy to figure out with a multimeter. Then I ran my own RCA cables from my aftermarket stereo. I used ~half of a 99c walmart poly filled pillow stuffed on top of my ebrake to take up the dead space, and prevent rattling. With the new center console top mounting instead of bottom mounting, and not riveted in, its MUCH easier to get everything positioned properly. I'm really happy with this setup.
As for the rest of my stereo install, I used the TJ Dash pods for 5.25 speakers. I used polk audio speakers up front, and in the sound bar. I used a $20 jensen head unit, which I also have in my other TJ, and I really like it. And I used this slick single DIN adapter, with a tiny cubby hole. Harmony Audio Compatible with Jeep Wrangler 2003 2004 2005 2006 Single DIN Stereo Harness Radio Install Dash Kit Package - It came with the correct harness adapter, and the antenna extension you need for short depth stereos like my jensen. It was a great kit.

I've attached a bunch of photos. Hope this helps other folks out.

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Welp... I just mentioned needing to relocate my B-8PTD to my center console.... and would you look at that.....

Time to warm up the ole Prusa to print the file and fix the now year long weekend project to move it from under the seat...

Thank you for sharing!

@SSTJ you should add this file to the 3D files thread!
 
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Also, what in the support material is that? Looks like a basket weave that uses way less material than the normal/tree supports.....
 
Welp... I just mentioned needing to relocate my B-8PTD to my center console.... and would you look at that.....

Time to warm up the ole Prusa to print the file and fix the now year long weekend project to move it from under the seat...

Thank you for sharing!

@SSTJ you should add this file to the 3D files thread!

I think without the foam on the bottom it would probably have fit. But I wanted the foam. It sounds really good. I’m happy with the whole thing.
 
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That's a great alternative to replacing the factory sub with a 6.5" Kicker with an amp under the seat. I wonder what is the sound difference is between the Sound Ordnance B-8PTD and an amped 6.5" Kicker sub.
 
That's a great alternative to replacing the factory sub with a 6.5" Kicker with an amp under the seat. I wonder what is the sound difference is between the Sound Ordnance B-8PTD and an amped 6.5" Kicker sub.

i tried out the amped 6.5 kicker but didnt like it too much, it was kinda there but didnt add enough umph for my needs. The B-8PTD far surpasses the level of detail the lil 6.5 kicker I had before. The 6.5 sounded boomy and rattly with the subpar OEM enclosure.

Plus cant best such a low cost loaded sub that fits anywhere in the jeep.
 
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Swell idea but was wondering—The sub doesn’t get hot in there? It looks like the sub isn’t fastened ( bolted / screwed) it’s just sandwiched in?
 
Swell idea but was wondering—The sub doesn’t get hot in there? It looks like the sub isn’t fastened ( bolted / screwed) it’s just sandwiched in?

I haven't used it much. I'm still building my new jeep. Getting read for a big trip where I'll use it a lot though. But I'm definitely not the first to put a self powered sub in there. I got the idea from lots of people on this board. I just hadn't seen anyone else use an alternative console tray to get more clearance/access.

And no, I didn't fasten/bolt it. It's just wedged in with a pillow and some foam. There's some air flow from the stock subwoofer grill, but that's about it. We'll see how it does! :)
 
i tried out the amped 6.5 kicker but didnt like it too much, it was kinda there but didnt add enough umph for my needs. The B-8PTD far surpasses the level of detail the lil 6.5 kicker I had before. The 6.5 sounded boomy and rattly with the subpar OEM enclosure.

Did you dynamat the exterior and some of the interior? Just curious bc I’ve been happy with mine running about 300w to it @2ohms from the 5-channel Picasso. I probably would have hated it had I not been able to make the enclosure more rigid.
 
I haven't used it much. I'm still building my new jeep. Getting read for a big trip where I'll use it a lot though. But I'm definitely not the first to put a self powered sub in there. I got the idea from lots of people on this board. I just hadn't seen anyone else use an alternative console tray to get more clearance/access.

And no, I didn't fasten/bolt it. It's just wedged in with a pillow and some foam. There's some air flow from the stock subwoofer grill, but that's about it. We'll see how it does! :)

My son and I both have the Sound Ordnance B-8PTD in our consoles for about 5 years now. We just used some high density foam to keep it in place. I haven't had any issues.
 
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Did you dynamat the exterior and some of the interior? Just curious bc I’ve been happy with mine running about 300w to it @2ohms from the 5-channel Picasso. I probably would have hated it had I not been able to make the enclosure more rigid.

Ive not done dynamat yet, it would probably have been better if everything was more rigid.

Those are in the works though, just putting the funds toward my steering and the dreaded tire purchase first….

Ill be doing dynamat noico foam and finally finishing off the front portion of the bedrug.
 
I haven't used it much. I'm still building my new jeep. Getting read for a big trip where I'll use it a lot though. But I'm definitely not the first to put a self powered sub in there. I got the idea from lots of people on this board. I just hadn't seen anyone else use an alternative console tray to get more clearance/access.

And no, I didn't fasten/bolt it. It's just wedged in with a pillow and some foam. There's some air flow from the stock subwoofer grill, but that's about it. We'll see how it does! :)

I was going to mention, why is the sub faced away from the grill? Any reason? Ive seen people try their best to line the subs grill with the grill on the console.
 
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Ive not done dynamat yet, it would probably have been better if everything was more rigid.

Those are in the works though, just putting the funds toward my steering and the dreaded tire purchase first….

Ill be doing dynamat noico foam and finally finishing off the front portion of the bedrug.

Wheels and tires tied up my funds not too long ago. And I had to replace my locking hubs and steering gear recently so I feel your pain.

Fwiw, regarding the kicker 6.75 and stock enclosure, I also sealed up where the amp previously attached, cut and sanded down the ribs inside, and JB welded the sanded areas to stiffen things up more before adding the dynamat to the interior (knowing I didn’t want to displace too much space inside). The outside was then mostly covered in dynamat since it didn’t cause and fitment issues, and I ran 1/4” nylon spacers that were held in place with the dynamat…so the woofer wouldn't hit the grill.

That said, I’d like to compare it to something like the powered 8” since folks have been happy with that route.
 
Novak Conversions Jeep Wrangler TJ engine mounts