New TJ Owner Requesting Assistance With Stereo

J

JeepTJ406

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Jan 26, 2026
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Montana
Good evening, I'm a new member and first-time Jeep owner. Very happily purchased a 2004. However, the stereo is in desperate need of an update. My TJ does have the factory sub/amp. I'd prefer to remove/delete the sub and amp, as I'm planning some other console mods more applicable to my needs. I'm planning to install a double-din HU with backup camera, and replacing the dash/roll bar speakers. However, I'm finding conflicting info on the factory amp. Does the amp power the dash/roll bar speakers or just the sub? If possible, I'd like to use the factory wiring for the dash/roll bar speakers, but am concerned if I abandon the amp, I'll no longer be able to use the factory speaker wires. Any guidance/advice would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!
 
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JeepTJ406 said:
Good evening, I'm a new member and first-time Jeep owner. Very happily purchased a 2004. However, the stereo is in desperate need of an update. My TJ does have the factory sub/amp. I'd prefer to remove/delete the sub and amp, as I'm planning some other console mods more applicable to my needs. I'm planning to install a double-din HU with backup camera, and replacing the dash/roll bar speakers. However, I'm finding conflicting info on the factory amp. Does the amp power the dash/roll bar speakers or just the sub? If possible, I'd like to use the factory wiring for the dash/roll bar speakers, but am concerned if I abandon the amp, I'll no longer be able to use the factory speaker wires. Any guidance/advice would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!
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I’m about 99,9% positively the factory amp ran the center console sub only and the dash and roll bar speakers were pushed by the head unit like all other TJ’s.

There are tons of threads about stereo setups to deal with that anemic piece.

I’ve tried all of them. Nothing works as good as a 5-channel amp pushing the fronts, rears, and a sub. Several use the Soundstream 640D Nano Picasso amp.

Great plan to use a DD head unit.
 
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Service Manual: https://wranglertjforum.com/attachments/2004-tj-service-manual-pdf.14043/

8W-47 is the wiring diagrams for Audio, page 771

As stated, the sub amp uses all four inputs to create the sub signal, but does not amplify the base speakers. The signal is pulled at C202 up in the lower dash, so no issues discoing at the sub.
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Chris

Thread 'Upgrading the sound system on your Jeep Wrangler TJ'

I see a lot of questions about how to get a better sound system from your Jeep Wrangler TJ. People will often dismiss the TJ as being a vehicle with poor sound dynamics to begin with, and while this is true to some degree, I can tell you that the sound system I have in my 2005 TJ Rubicon is absolutely killer, and it didn't break the bank either!

At 65+ on the highway with the doors off and the top off, I can hear the sound loud and clear without any issue at all. I have my subwoofer volume set at 6 (out of 12) and the subwoofer volume on the amp only turned to half way. Yet the bass still...
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To replace the factory speakers: Front and rear will fit any 5.25". They will need an adapter to connect the factory wiring to the speaker. If you buy your speakers on Crutchfield, they will include the adapters for free.

Some have found 6.5" that will fit in the rear sound bar. Not all 6.5" fit though.

For the oem sub, many have used a 6.5" kicker sub to replace it. Though if you want a 'real' sub, you will need to go with an aftermarket box.
 
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