Alpine S-S65

Alpine S-S65 6.5-inch Coaxial Car Speakers and Metra 72-7400 Harness Installation Manual

Model: S-S65 | Brand: Alpine

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation and operation of your Alpine S-S65 6.5-inch Coaxial 2-Way Car Audio Speakers, bundled with the Metra 72-7400 Speaker Harness Connector. This speaker and harness combination is specifically designed for compatibility with the 2013-2015 Nissan Altima Sedan, facilitating a direct replacement for factory speakers.

Please read this manual thoroughly before beginning installation to ensure proper setup and to prevent damage to your vehicle or the product.

2. Safety Information

  • Always disconnect the vehicle's negative battery terminal before performing any electrical work to prevent short circuits and electrical shock.
  • Wear appropriate safety gear, including eye protection, during installation.
  • Ensure all wiring connections are secure and properly insulated to prevent shorts and ensure reliable performance.
  • Do not obstruct vehicle airbags or other safety features during installation.
  • If you are unsure about any part of the installation process, consult a qualified car audio professional.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all items listed below are present in your package:

  • (2) Alpine S-S65 6.5-inch Coaxial 2-Way Car Audio Speakers
  • (2) Metra 72-7400 Speaker Harness Connectors
  • (2) Speaker Mounting Adapters (Rings)
  • (1) Set of Mounting Screws and Clips
  • (1) Set of Speaker Wires (for connection to harness if needed)
Two Alpine S-S65 6.5-inch coaxial speakers, front view
Figure 3.1: Front view of two Alpine S-S65 speakers.

This image displays the two Alpine S-S65 6.5-inch coaxial speakers from the front, showing their cone and tweeter design.

Speaker mounting adapters, wiring harnesses, and screws
Figure 3.2: Included mounting hardware and harnesses.

This image shows the two circular speaker mounting adapters, two speaker wiring harnesses (Metra 72-7400 type), and various screws and clips for installation.

4. Setup and Installation

4.1. Tools Required

  • Panel removal tools
  • Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
  • Socket wrench set
  • Wire strippers/crimpers
  • Electrical tape or heat shrink tubing
  • Multimeter (optional, for testing polarity)

4.2. Pre-Installation Steps

  1. Disconnect Battery: Locate your vehicle's battery and disconnect the negative (-) terminal to prevent accidental electrical shorts.
  2. Access Speaker Location: Carefully remove the door panels or other trim pieces to access the factory speaker locations. Refer to your vehicle's service manual for specific instructions on trim removal.
  3. Remove Factory Speakers: Unscrew and disconnect the wiring from the existing factory speakers. Remove the speakers from their mounting locations.

4.3. Speaker and Harness Connection

  1. Identify Speaker Terminals: The Alpine S-S65 speakers have positive (+) and negative (-) terminals. The larger terminal is typically positive.
  2. Connect Metra Harness: The Metra 72-7400 harness is designed to plug directly into your vehicle's factory speaker wiring. Connect the other end of the Metra harness to the Alpine S-S65 speaker terminals. Ensure correct polarity: positive to positive, negative to negative. If the harness wires are not pre-terminated for the speaker, you may need to strip the wires and use crimp connectors or solder them.
Rear view of two Alpine S-S65 speakers showing wiring terminals
Figure 4.1: Rear view of Alpine S-S65 speakers with wiring terminals.

This image highlights the rear of the Alpine S-S65 speakers, clearly showing the positive and negative wiring terminals for connection.

4.4. Speaker Mounting

  1. Attach Mounting Adapter: Secure the provided speaker mounting adapter rings to the Alpine S-S65 speakers using the appropriate screws. These adapters ensure a proper fit in your Nissan Altima's speaker openings.
  2. Position Speaker: Place the assembled speaker and adapter into the vehicle's speaker opening.
  3. Secure Speaker: Use the provided mounting screws to firmly attach the speaker assembly to the vehicle's door frame or mounting bracket. Do not overtighten.

4.5. Post-Installation

  1. Test Connections: Before reassembling the door panels, reconnect the vehicle's negative battery terminal. Turn on your car's audio system and test the new speakers to ensure they are functioning correctly and producing clear sound. Check for proper balance and fade.
  2. Reassemble Trim: Once you have confirmed proper operation, carefully reattach the door panels and any other trim pieces removed during installation. Ensure all clips and screws are securely fastened.
  3. Final Check: Verify that all vehicle functions (windows, door locks, etc.) are working correctly after reassembly.

5. Operating Your Speakers

Once installed, your Alpine S-S65 speakers will operate as part of your vehicle's audio system. Sound output is controlled by your car's head unit (stereo receiver).

  • Audio Settings: Adjust the bass, treble, balance, and fader settings on your head unit to optimize sound quality to your preference.
  • Volume Control: Avoid operating the speakers at excessively high volumes for extended periods, as this can lead to distortion and potential damage.

6. Maintenance

The Alpine S-S65 speakers require minimal maintenance to ensure long-lasting performance.

  • Cleaning: Periodically wipe the speaker grilles (if exposed) with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
  • Inspection: Occasionally check for any loose connections or signs of wear, especially if you experience changes in sound quality.
  • Environmental Factors: While designed for automotive use, avoid exposing speakers to excessive moisture or extreme temperatures beyond normal vehicle operating conditions.

7. Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause Solution
No sound from speakers
  • Loose or incorrect wiring connection
  • Head unit not powered on or muted
  • Fader/balance settings incorrect
  • Check all speaker and harness connections for security and correct polarity.
  • Ensure head unit is on and not muted.
  • Adjust fader and balance settings on your head unit.
Distorted or poor sound quality
  • Incorrect audio settings on head unit
  • Loose speaker mounting
  • Damaged speaker wire
  • Over-driving speakers (volume too high)
  • Adjust bass, treble, and EQ settings on your head unit.
  • Ensure speakers are securely mounted and not vibrating.
  • Inspect speaker wires for damage; replace if necessary.
  • Reduce volume to a comfortable listening level.
Only one speaker working
  • Loose connection to the non-working speaker
  • Balance setting on head unit
  • Check wiring for the affected speaker.
  • Adjust the balance control on your head unit.

8. Specifications

Feature Detail
Model Alpine S-S65
Speaker Type 6.5-inch Coaxial 2-Way Car Audio Speaker
Maximum Output Power 180 Watts
Connectivity Technology Coaxial
Audio Output Mode Mono (per speaker, stereo system)
Number of Audio Channels 2.0 (for the pair)
Mounting Type Flush Mount (with adapter)
Compatible Vehicle 2013-2015 Nissan Altima Sedan (with Metra 72-7400 harness)

9. Warranty and Support

Alpine products are manufactured to high-quality standards. For specific warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Alpine website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

For technical support, troubleshooting assistance beyond this manual, or service inquiries, please contact Alpine customer support through their official website or authorized service centers.

Alpine Official Website: www.alpine-usa.com

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