16 replies to this topic

[TEGBOY]

Not to bash any store here, I find it funny how the best stores here in Australia don't cut metal, they don't screw into floors, they use safe cable runs, don't drill holes, use nut-inserts etc.

These images were on FB, as an example of why they are the best store for your install needs... perhaps the way we do it here, might filter into the mainstream.. we can only hope

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[lupin]

The worst part is most of that will end up hidden. So in the end nobody will know what is underneath.

I always found it hard to explain to customers that your equipment is only as good as the install. Quite often they would just go with the cheapest option.

[Big_Valven]

What, precisely, about drilling a hole in a car's floor, will cause it to explode, or fall apart, or lose all it's value in the aftermarket?

I agree that there are often solutions where it can be avoided. There are no aftermarket holes in my Mazda's boot install, for example. But there are also install needs where some diligent mounting holes, properly executed, are a safe and sensible solution to making sure the install is secure and performs correctly. Would you rather a ground be attached to a seatbelt bolt? Or on a diligently drilled hole, bared metal, a zinc plated bolt with a shakeproof washer, and covered in anti-corrosion coating?

I have seen people boast of their installs in which they've drilled no holes or modified any factory parts, and I honestly wouldn't like to travel in their cars - some of them are obviously and badly unsafe. Personally, without implication to anyone else on here, I think taking the absolutist approach to "no holes in a car" is losing sight of simple practicalities.

[Sorin-Andrei]

I'm with Callum on this one - fair enough if people don't like to drill holes but i've found that when properly done they look better and can be substantially safer than the alternative.

[syd-monster]

Guys, i think Teg is talking more about the photos in particular
ie: the huge holes cut for subs on an other wise no-additinally-support(ed) parcel shelf, which in modern cars is structural.
Amps and processors mounted to flimsy metal straps that are too weak and can cause earth loops/noise
Subs in boot in slot ported boxes with subs on parcel shelf, all playing into same space of a sedans boot = mess of bass, with so many unmeasurable cancelations, rattles, loading, unloading, phasing, standing waves, wave intereaction issues that it equals fail, but would look "sick" in a show car!!

Edited by syd-monster, 31 January 2012 - 11:03 PM.

[Big_Valven]

I have no idea who the installer is so not defending them by any means, but don't forget how much the install is often dictated by the customer as well. Installers have to go against their best judgement everyday when people want sik by nines with subs, splits in the back doors, etc etc. It would be a perfect world if installers could turn customers like that away, or change their minds every time, but it's not.

That said, there's also a right and wrong way to execute it if it's to be done and the above photos, whilst far from the worst I've seen, aren't great.

[Mr. Drifter]

It is possible to tell them that it's not a good idea, and to just go a sub, or whatever, but half the time, the people think they are ripping them off, and run off crying 'RIP OFF'

[syd-monster]

Thats the thing, clearly we can see fundamental errors that aren't dictated by price.
I doubt the owner of the car said, please ground loop my amps! I know better!!

A good specialist shop & learned customer will agree on a package/set up/install...

Installers don't have to do anything, they choose the easy road out when they can either by unknowing customers, or customers who think they know better... either way the combination still ='s fail. Teg's post is not just aimed at shops, but the difference in what we, as in MEA shops and seasoned/time tested members who have learned Vs the " I want it NOW! for $2" and their "shure we can do that for you for $1.95 bro" ego boosters.

Hack install often mean hack-at-it attitude owners... takes two to tango in this game.

Ironic part is look at the gear, this is quality stuff. let down by either ignorance on the installer/owner or both or the "not spend enough time/money on the install" trick...

Edited by syd-monster, 31 January 2012 - 11:36 PM.

[scraverX]

I've tried looking at those pics three different ways and it's still doing my head in. (Course, might not help that I had something hit me in the head tonight...)

[peaandham]

Is that parcel shelf cut and still sharp??

[Mr. Drifter]

looks like it

[sostok]

i think with customers and installs (being in the industry)" fast food" style companies try and do what the customer wants and also focus on quick turnaround ,hence fast food style.whilst professional stores dictate to a degree time required to create what you want and whats needed...end of the day a diligant installer will/ should do their best ..but to be honest you dont go to maccas to get a fillet mignon ..

[DrBoom]

Its up to the consumer to do their homework and at the end of the day, you get what you pay for. Its always a good idea to research the installer before getting work done on your pride and joy.

[Mr. Drifter]

That's true, but even the , you'll always have your "oh they did a crap job, wasn't anywhere as loud as what my mate can make" and the opposite "they are the best in the country!" research can be hard sonetimes... But if they have a demo car, I suppose that's be a good way to check their work.. Having said that, they could have put effort into it purely for that reason (not saying anyone does, just paranoia xD)

Hard to tell really without getting then to do something, I suppose

[2LOUD2OLD]

that's why you ask to see photos of their previous work