DS18 JK-HARNESS User Manual
Installation Guide for Jeep JK/JKU Soundbar and Subwoofer System
Introduction
This manual provides instructions for installing the DS18 JK-HARNESS, a wiring kit designed for Jeep JK/JKU models to integrate a soundbar, subwoofer, and amplifiers.
Items Included
- JK Soundbar Wiring Kit Harness
- SQBASS Brackets
- Amp Rack
Hardware:
- [4] M5x16mm screws, and nuts (Type A)
- [4] 2x8mm screws (Type B)
- [8] 3.5x8mm screws, and nuts (Type C)
Tools Required
- Pin Remover
- #2 Philips Screwdriver
- [1/4 inch] Drill Bit
- [7mm] Socket
- [10mm] Socket
- [18mm] Socket
- [T27] Socket
- [T40] Socket
- Impact Wrench
Equipment You Will Need (Not Included)
- SQBASS (active subwoofer)
- 2X Candy4 (4 Ch amplifier)
Important Attention Notices
ATTENTION: Installation of mobile audio and video components requires experience with various mechanical and electrical procedures. This manual provides general instructions; consult an authorized dealer for professional installation if needed.
ATTENTION: Disconnect the negative post [battery ground] before starting installation to prevent airbag or electrical issues.
Under Seat Amp and SQBASS Rack / Bracket Installation
Step 1: Remove the driver's seat bolts using an [18mm] socket with an impact wrench.
Step 2: Remove the seat belt screw using a [T40] socket. Remove the seat and place it for easier access under the seat.
Step 3: Locate and remove the connector holder plate using a clip remover and a [T27] socket for the two holding screws.
Step 4: Relocate the wiring under the seat to one side, using the existing pin spots as shown.
Step 5: Using the [1/4 inch] drill bit, open up two holes where factory bolts were located. Attach the SQBASS bracket "B" using a pair of "A" screws, but do not tighten fully yet.
Step 6: Secure the SQBASS Bracket "A" to the SQBASS unit using the "B" screws. Tighten them firmly but not excessively to avoid breaking the screws.
Step 7: Position the SQBASS under the seat. Secure it with a pair of "A" screws (do not tighten fully). Then, use "B" screws to secure the other side of the SQBASS to bracket "B".
Step 8: Install the amplifiers onto the Amp Rack using the "C" screws. Tighten them with a [7mm] socket and a [#2 Philips screwdriver]. Position the amps for easy wiring access before placing under the seat.
Step 9: Slide the bracket into the gap between the SQBASS bracket and the seat bracket. Tighten all screws using a [10mm] socket with the impact wrench.
Connecting Wires: Connect all wires for the SQBASS and amplifiers. Route wiring: (1) Ground and to the engine bay for battery power, (2) for the Radio in the Dashboard, (3) to the roof soundbar.
System Wiring Diagram
This diagram illustrates the overall system connectivity, including the battery, fuse holder, radio, subwoofer, amplifiers, and soundbar, with connections for LED-BTC.
Radio Side Installation
Using Factory OEM Radio (Without RCA Pre-output)
Connect the DS18 T-Harness connector between the factory radio unit and the radio harness.
- A: DS18 T-Harness Radio
- B: Factory Radio Harness
- C: Factory Radio Unit
- D: DS18 Harness (Radio Side)
Connector Functions:
- 1 - Front Audio Input (white/gray)
- 2 - Rear Audio Input (green/violet)
- 3 - Subwoofer Audio Input (red/white)
- 4 - Front Speaker output
- 5 - Rear Speaker (Tweeter/driver) output (green/violet)
- 6 - Remote wire to power amplifiers
Radio Side Installation
Using Aftermarket Radio (With RCA Pre-output)
Connect the DS18 T-Harness connector between the factory radio unit and the radio harness using a radio harness adapter (not included) from JEEP JK to the aftermarket radio.
- A: DS18 T-Harness Radio
- B: Factory Radio Harness
- C: Aftermarket Radio Unit (with RCA pre-outputs)
- D: DS18 Harness (Radio Side)
Connection Details:
- 1: Front Audio Input (white/gray): Connect to Front RCA Pre-output in the Radio using a supplied RCA adapter wire.
- 2: Rear Audio Input (green/violet): Connect to Rear RCA Pre-output in the Radio using a supplied RCA adapter wire.
- 3: Subwoofer Audio Input (red/white): Connect to subwoofer RCA Pre-output in the radio using a supplied RCA adapter wire.
- 4: Front Speaker output (white/gray).
- 5: Rear Speaker (Tweeter/driver) output (green/violet).
- 6: Remote wire: Connect to the Remote output from the radio.
Amplifier Side Installation
This section details the connections for the amplifiers and LED-BTC module.
Front Candy Amp 4 CH:
- Connect speaker harness (CH1+, CH1-, CH2+, CH2-, etc.) to the amplifier inputs.
- Connect power wires: RED [positive from battery], BLACK [negative ground], BLUE [remote from radio].
- Connect audio signal connector: Use hi-level input for factory radio or RCA connector for aftermarket radio.
Roof Candy Amp 4 CH:
- Connect soundbar speaker harness to the amplifier inputs.
- Connect power wires: RED [positive from battery], BLACK [negative ground], BLUE [remote from radio].
- Connect audio signal connector: Use hi-level input for factory radio or RCA connector for aftermarket radio.
SQBASS Subwoofer:
- Connect power wires: RED [positive from battery], BLACK [negative ground], BLUE [remote from radio].
- Connect audio input.
LED-BTC Module: Connect RGB LED lights from the soundbar to the LED-BTC module (sold separately).
Ground Wire: Connect to a factory ground chassis bolt.
Soundbar Side Connections
This section details the connections on the soundbar side.
- A: RGB LED light wire: Connect to RGB LED lighting (speakers, rings, grills, tweeters, DS18 Badge).
- B: Factory dome light connector: Connect to the OEM dome lamp (not included).
- C: Factory Soundbar Connector: Connect to the OEM connector for the Soundbar.
- D: 12-pin Harness Connector: Connects to the DS18 roof harness from the amplifier side.
Speaker Connections:
- Speaker 1: Green [+], Green/Black [-]
- Speaker 2: White [+], White/Black [-]
- Speaker 3: Gray [+], Gray/Black [-]
- Speaker 4: Violet [+], Violet/Black [-]
- Tweeter and Driver Wires: Gray [+], Gray/Black [-]
Final Steps
- Run the positive power wire to the front battery under the hood, using floor drain caps for routing.
- Secure the wire with [zip-ties] to the chassis or factory harness, keeping it away from header/exhaust.
- Connect to the positive [battery] terminal and secure the fuse holder in an accessible area.
- Once connected, replace the seat and ensure all connectors are plugged in. Re-connect the negative [battery ground].
- Turn on the radio and check sound. Adjust amplifier gain and crossover point as needed.
- Enjoy your new DS18 JK-HARNESS.