I've read a number of posts regarding the front speakers not working after an aftermarket stereo installation. I recently did the same thing, and installed a Sony CD/XM/MP3 deck in my 1998 Ram 1500 4X4. I used the Slosche install harness kit & fascia kit to install, and the Sony wiring specs to verify that all wires were correctly installed. I also replaced the door speakers & kept the original (I assume) remote amps or crossovers (the black box assy attached to the rear of the stock speakers) that I assume are required for the tweeters.

Once the unit was installed it played great & I have nice clean sound when listening to FM. But... once I plug in my iPod or play a CD, only the rear speakers work. I returned the deck and got a new one with the same results. It would seem reasonable to assume that in playback mode maybe the decks amp is switched off or maybe the other way around? I did connect a blue wire that, according to the aftermarket manual by the harness company, was either for a power antenna (boost) or a power antenna (retract). I used the wire having the lower amp rating of the two (which I think was .08A). Anyway, any info on this common problem would be appreciated. I guess I have a half-problem, but it still sucks when your stopped in SoCal traffic and can only get broadcast radio with every commercial known to man (especially at Christmas).

Thanks!

Matt Randolph
1998 RAM 1500 4X4 (long bed extra cab)
1995 Mazda Miata (with a cute little turbo)
1967 Chevelle SS 396 (black on black, 4 speed)
1972 Piper Cherokee (ugly but flies great)

 

how are you hooking your ipod up to the radio? using rca's or headphone extension to the front of the radio? If your using rca's it sounds like one of your rcas might be bad. try replacing them.

 

I'm using the input jack at the front of the radio. It's a standard 2-pole plug (socket). But what really chaps my hide is that home-grown CD's (i.e. .MP3's) do the same thing. I haven't tried a production CD (like from a store) but I assume it'll be the same result.

Hmmm

Matt Randolph
1998 RAM 1500 4X4 (long bed extra cab)
1995 Mazda Miata (with a cute little turbo)
1967 Chevelle SS 396 (black on black, 4 speed)
1972 Piper Cherokee (ugly but flies great)

 

It sounds like you have the amp power wire connected to the power antenna wire not the remote amp wire of your deck. The power antenna wire only has power when you have AM or FM playing and no power when aux. or cd's are playing. Check your deck for an amp wire not a power antenna wire.

Will

 

Hmmm. That sounds very possible. I'll double check that this weekend. If it's correct, I owe you a lunch pass. Thanks for the reply!

Matt Randolph
1998 RAM 1500 4X4 (long bed extra cab)
1995 Mazda Miata (with a cute little turbo)
1967 Chevelle SS 396 (black on black, 4 speed)
1972 Piper Cherokee (ugly but flies great)

 

No problem, I just hope that's it.

Will

 

I think that's it,.. Priest has it right. On mine, I used the same install harness and you should end up with TWO blue wires.
Use the one with the white-stripe on the blue wire. It goes to your amp.