first: Wow, what an amazing difference. If you have a sub back there, you need to do this. Right now I have it completely removed but I do want to put it back in with some cut outs so air can still move.

What size cut outs have others made in the rear deck lid? I want to keep the lid in there so it covers the back and not expose my sub and amp. It also wouldn't hurt to keep it in there to support the top while down.

I also wanted to get some speaker grill type material to cover the cut outs, but where?

Thanks!

 

Since I actually have my sub under the tray firing up through it. I cut a hole for the speaker and installed a grill. I just covered the tray in thin trunk carpeting afterwards. A plus is that wrapping carpet around the sides prevents any rattling there.

 

I would think since you have a 2001 the plastic window might get worn in the area where it contacts the grill.

I have a single JL 10w6, I was thinking about drilling two rectangular holes leaving some support for the convertible top in the center when down. I'm just not sure how big.

 

haha i am about to do the exact same thing to mine. You dont want to make the holes too large as the tray will become unstable and probably rattle in itself.

I was also thinking of completely removing the center area and stretching some fabric over the hole - that way I leave the rim for mounting purposes but the whole center section will allow air passage into the cabin.

havent decided which of the two I am giong for yet!

 

Well, the sound is entirely different. I can't believe how much bass I was missing by having that in there.

Any clue where we can get some of that speaker grill material in the Chicago area? The closest thing I could find was some material at "ehem" JoAnn Fabrics that was a very shear black. It wasn't stretchable though so I passed on it.

 

Try an audio shop and see what they might use for grille cloth.

 

BTW -- S2000GT copped to going to JoAnn today too

 

The grill is covered in carpet so it's not a problem. I've done 1000's of top down miles since.

 

i think you guys would like wat i did took out the rear lip cut out 3 4" holes for ports and dynamated its under with a few layers.put it back and no more rattles and so much more bass than b4, came out really clean too..

 

So back to the original question, what is the size I need to open up in order for the volume of the air to move freely enough that putting the tray back in won't make a difference?

You mentioned 3x4 inch holes. Did you notice any difference with the tray back in then you did with it completely out?