I just purchased the sony v1631's. I think I'll try a cheap and inexpensive upgrade and see if I am happy with the improvement. If not, I'll send more and move up. I know that with the sony v1631's the speaker basket must be cut. Can you buy a replacement speaker basket to replace the stock basket that will fit the v1631s? If so, where? Second question: When I wire the new sony's, is there a wiring adaptor or new harness that I need to make the installation easier? If so, where can I buy it and is there a part number? Sorry I am a novice and I would like to try the upgrade myself, but I want to make sure that I have all the right parts. I have already reviewed many of the treads online. thanks GaToR

 

Forget the replacement baskets. I cut mine with a utility knife. It only takes like 5 minutes each basket. As for the harness, you can get one at like Good Guys or someplace like that or order from Crutchfield. I have one, but won't need it cuz I used new speaker wires. You don't even need a harness. Just get 4 female crimp connectors, strip the factory wires, attach the connectors, and plug in. It's like a 10 minute job. I've never installed a stereo in my life and was able to do it very easily.

 

Thanks for the information. The wiring sounds pretty easy. With the baskets, how do you prevent water damage with basket?

 

I read on some threads in the past that water won't be a problem with the baskets cut out. It's basically a non-issue.

 

Water CAN be an issue! While the water itself won't really hurt the speaker (with plastic cones and rubber surrounds and such), there is a small amount of trough created by the cone/surround and the speaker frame. If water collects in there (which it will if left wide open), dust, debris, and grime will collect there. As the cone moves in and out with the music, the debris will slowly chomp into the surround and cone. I'm sure it would take several years before some serious damage becomes evident, but the potential is there. Why take a chance for such a simple fix?

I used a piece of plastic bag to cover the back of the basket, glued at the top and left open on the bottom for air passage. I left the vents on the side open as well. All you want to do is keep water from directly entering by rolling it off the back of the basket...moisture will get it either way.

 

Thanks for the input. Are you aware of any new baskets that you can order that will fit? GaToR

 

Crap...that's one more thing I have to do.

I saw some speaker baffles on Crutchfield for 6.5 in speakers with 3" depth. How about those?