Hello, I just bought an 04 element a couple weeks ago, and I am getting ready to mod the hell out of the stock audio system, just waiting for warmer weather I guess. I got 2 jl 12w7's and just got infinitiy kapp perfect 6.1's with 63.9i's for the backs. I got a pioneer nav cd on the way. I plan to remover the center stock sub and possibly mount some distribution blocks there and the capacitor. I have been rifting through the forums for places to mount the amps and the one that will work most for me is to make amp racks and mount them to the sides of the storage bins in the back. My question is that for those who have done it, did you actually drill into the storage bins? I am thinking if I can get them to stay up with some double sided tape or something I can minimize damage to the actual bin so its easier to return to stock. Thanks!

Welcome, lnguyen116.

I say drill. You can always replace the plastic garnish if need be, but it's also easy to plug the holes with screw covers. Double-sided foam tape and Velcro are great for lots of things but not for holding heavy weights on a vertical surface. It just won't last.

Just a quick question as I am getting ready to install the new headunit, I am referring to emass's diagram, and I am wondering if I really need rca plugs on the speaker wires on the metra harness? I understand about the subwoofer connection, but what if I just connect the metra speaker wires to the HU speaker wires and leave the rca's out? Would they still work? Thanks!

Just a quick question as I am getting ready to install the new headunit, I am referring to emass's diagram, and I am wondering if I really need rca plugs on the speaker wires on the metra harness? I understand about the subwoofer connection, but what if I just connect the metra speaker wires to the HU speaker wires and leave the rca's out? Would they still work? Thanks!
The factory radio puts out line level to the OEM amp. If you run straight speaker level to the amp's input, it will be distorted and will overpower the sub output level. Check my signature line for some hints. ;-)

I have a four channel amp on the passenger side in the rear, and it looks pretty good, stays out of the way when I fold up the seats, and I can still use the storage bin. If I were to do it again, I think I would still mount it in the same spot. That's my $0.02.

Americonium- do you have pictures.

thanks, garrett

I could take a couple. I am habitually lazy, however, so you may have to wait until tomorrow. Maybe...

Here's a couple pics of my amp locations. Don't worry Americonium now you don't have to get off of Pete's couch LOL just kiddin.

OH and for S&G's i included a pic of what I did with the stock sub location. Mind you the RF sub has long ago burnt up and is now a Kicker CompVR 8"