Hi,

2005 Dodge Dak Laramie

Does anybody know if I bypass my factory amp (to add new speakers and an amp), will I lose my steering wheel audio controls? Not sure if they're linked to the amp somehow.

Thanks.

 

You wont lose the steering wheel controls unless you remove the radio itself.

 

I have a feeling the factory amp actually provides the volume, so bypassing it may not be a good thing. Please check with a pro though, I am only going off of how my 06 is wired up w/the premium sound system.

 

You keep the steering wheel controls as long as the OEM HU stays. If you just plan to replace the speakers just go with 2ohm speakers (which is the load the amp pushes) and keep the factory amp. Not sure the signal from the Hu is the cleanest. And I think if you run an aftermarket amp you will probably push the HU into clipping way before you get full potential from the new amp. Besides it will only cost around $200 more for a good Hu, install kit etc...
Just some food for thought. Good luck which ever direction you go. Hope it sounds good.

TASTE THE HEAT AND ENJOY THE PAIN

 

Is there anyway to keep the factory HU and just replace the speakers (and/or add a new amp)? Is this what a line output converter is for? Will this prevent "clipping" with or without an amp?

Man, I wish Dodge just made a freakin' good premium stereo! Thanks.

 

If you replace the speakers go with 2 ohm so you get the full benefit from the OEM amp. Or like you said use a high level converter to add an after market amp. If you go with an amp then you have way more speaker options.

Choices, choices, choices! Aint it nerve racking sometimes? Good luck dude.

TASTE THE HEAT AND ENJOY THE PAIN

 

[QUOTE=PEPPERHEAD;452112]

I’ve been messing with is for a few weeks now and still can find a converter that fit the 05, all I can find is stuff for 08-up.
i have a kenwood KDC-248U as the radio, the subs are 2-12 pioneers championship series, and a lanzar max pro st mxa 282 4000w amp and I’ve tapped into the cig lighter for my remote power for the amp, oh it has the infinity system in it too.
when I fire it up the pioneers will play bass but that’s it, no sound at all from any speaker in the truck.

 

Cruthfield used to offer parts for certain stereo components to be able to utilize the steering wheel buttons but in most instances you would lose the use of steering wheel buttons. Haven't looked lately but you might give them a look.

 

Guys, 19 year old thread....... I doubt the guy even OWNS the truck any more. Please pay attention to dates.