Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the proper installation and use of your BOSS Audio Systems EK8 8 Gauge Car Amplifier Install Wiring Kit. This kit is designed to provide all necessary cables and accessories for connecting a car amplifier to your vehicle's electrical system and audio components. Please read this manual thoroughly before beginning installation to ensure correct setup and optimal performance.
Safety Information
Always prioritize safety during installation. Improper wiring can lead to electrical shorts, fire, or damage to your vehicle's electrical system and audio equipment. If you are unsure about any part of the installation process, consult a qualified professional installer.
- Disconnect the vehicle's negative battery terminal before starting any electrical work.
- Ensure all connections are secure and properly insulated to prevent short circuits.
- Route cables away from moving parts, sharp edges, and heat sources.
- Use appropriate personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses and gloves.
- Never replace fuses with a higher amperage rating than specified.
Package Contents
Verify that all items listed below are included in your EK8 wiring kit:
- 20 Foot / 8 Gauge Matte Red Power Cable
- Gold Plated AGU Fuse Holder
- Gold Plated AGU Fuse
- 3 Foot - 8 Gauge Matte White Ground Cable
- 16 Foot / 18 Gauge Blue Turn-On Wire
- 30 Foot Matte Black Speaker Wire
- 20 Foot High Performance RCA Interconnect
- 6 Foot Split Loom Tubing
- (2) Red Gold Plated Ring Terminals
- (2) Black Gold Plated Ring Terminals
- (1) Red Gold Plated Spade Terminal
- (1) Black Gold Plated Spade Terminal
- (10) 4" Black Wire Ties
Image: The BOSS Audio Systems EK8 wiring kit components, including power cable, ground cable, fuse holder, RCA interconnect, speaker wire, and various terminals, are displayed.
Setup and Installation
Follow these steps carefully to install your amplifier wiring kit:
- Disconnect Battery: Before starting, disconnect the negative (-) terminal of your vehicle's battery to prevent electrical shorts.
- Route Power Cable: Run the 20-foot 8-gauge matte red power cable from the battery location through the firewall into the vehicle's interior. Ensure the cable is protected from sharp edges and heat.
- Install Fuse Holder: Mount the AGU fuse holder within 18 inches of the battery. Cut the power cable, strip the ends, and securely connect it to the fuse holder. Insert the AGU fuse into the holder.
- Route Ground Cable: Run the 3-foot 8-gauge matte white ground cable from the amplifier mounting location to a clean, unpainted metal surface on the vehicle's chassis. Ensure a good electrical connection by scraping away any paint or rust. Use a ring terminal to secure the ground cable.
- Mount Amplifier: Securely mount your car amplifier in the desired location, ensuring adequate ventilation.
- Connect Power and Ground to Amplifier: Connect the power cable from the fuse holder to the amplifier's +12V terminal. Connect the ground cable to the amplifier's GND terminal.
- Route RCA Interconnect: Run the 20-foot high-performance RCA interconnect cable from your head unit (stereo) to the amplifier. Route this cable separately from power cables to minimize noise interference.
- Route Remote Turn-On Wire: Run the 16-foot 18-gauge blue turn-on wire from your head unit's remote output to the amplifier's REM (remote) terminal. This wire tells the amplifier to turn on when the head unit is active.
- Route Speaker Wire: Run the 30-foot matte black speaker wire from the amplifier's speaker outputs to your speakers. Ensure correct polarity (+ to + and - to -).
- Secure Cables: Use the provided 4-inch black wire ties and 6-foot split loom tubing to neatly secure and protect all cables, preventing them from chafing or interfering with vehicle operation.
- Reconnect Battery: Once all connections are made and secured, reconnect the negative (-) terminal of your vehicle's battery.
- Test System: Turn on your vehicle and head unit to test the amplifier and speakers. Adjust settings as needed.
Operating
Once properly installed, your BOSS Audio Systems EK8 wiring kit facilitates the operation of your car amplifier. The amplifier will power on automatically with your head unit via the remote turn-on wire. Ensure your head unit's volume is set to a low level before turning on the system for the first time to prevent speaker damage.
Maintenance
The EK8 wiring kit requires minimal maintenance. Periodically inspect all connections for tightness and corrosion. Ensure cables are not pinched or damaged. Replace the AGU fuse only with a fuse of the same amperage rating if it blows.
Troubleshooting
- No Power to Amplifier:
- Check the AGU fuse in the fuse holder. Replace if blown.
- Verify the power cable connection at the battery and amplifier.
- Ensure the ground cable has a secure, clean connection to the chassis.
- Check the remote turn-on wire connection at both the head unit and amplifier.
- No Sound from Speakers:
- Confirm the amplifier is powered on (check indicator light).
- Verify RCA interconnect cables are securely connected at both the head unit and amplifier.
- Check speaker wire connections at both the amplifier and speakers for correct polarity and secure contact.
- Ensure head unit volume is up and not muted.
Specifications
- Power Cable Gauge:
- 8 Gauge
- Power Cable Length:
- 20 Feet
- Ground Cable Gauge:
- 8 Gauge
- Ground Cable Length:
- 3 Feet
- Remote Turn-On Wire Gauge:
- 18 Gauge
- Remote Turn-On Wire Length:
- 16 Feet
- Speaker Wire Length:
- 30 Feet
- RCA Interconnect Length:
- 20 Feet
- Fuse Type:
- AGU
- Item Model Number:
- EK8
- Manufacturer:
- BOSS Audio Systems
- Package Dimensions:
- 8.66 x 6.69 x 2.36 inches
- Item Weight:
- 1.77 pounds
Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation provided with your BOSS Audio Systems amplifier or visit the official BOSS Audio Systems website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
