If you are looking to upgrade your car audio system, using a line output converter (LOC) is an essential step. LOCs are devices that are used to convert a high-voltage, low-impedance signal from your car’s factory radio to a low-voltage, high-impedance signal that can be sent to an aftermarket amplifier or subwoofer.
The Metra line output converter is one of the most popular and trusted LOC brands in the market. In this article, we will provide step-by-step instructions on how to wire a Metra line output converter correctly. We will also address some frequently asked questions when it comes to wiring LOCs.
What You Will Need
Before we begin, you will need to gather some materials and tools to make the installation process easier:
- Metra line output converter
- Wire strippers
- Wire cutters
- Electrical tape
- Crimp connectors
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Socket wrench set
Step-by-Step Wiring Instructions
Follow these instructions carefully to wire your Metra line output converter:
Step 1: Disconnect the Battery
Before starting any work on your car’s electrical system, it is essential to disconnect the battery. Locate the negative terminal in the battery, and using a socket wrench, loosen the negative cable clamp until you can remove the cable from the battery post.
Step 2: Remove the Radio
To access the wiring harness of the factory radio, you will need to remove the radio from your dashboard. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions or seek professional help if you are not familiar with removing car radios.
Step 3: Locate the Wiring Harness
Once the radio is removed, you will see the wiring harness that connects it to the car’s electrical system. The harness usually has a series of wires of different colors, which carry the audio and power signals.
Step 4: Identify the Wires
You will need to identify the wires that carry the audio signals from the radio to the speakers. These are usually color-coded, but it’s best to consult your car’s wiring diagram to be sure. The wiring diagram can be found in the car owner’s manual or online.
Step 5: Cut the Wires
Once you have identified the wires, cut them off at a convenient location, leaving enough wire to work with. Be sure to leave an equal amount of wire on both sides of the cut, as you will need to attach the Metra line output converter to them.
Step 6: Strip the Wires
Using wire strippers, carefully strip about ½ inch of insulation from the ends of each cut wire. Be careful not to nick the wires or strip off too much insulation, as this can cause problems later on.
Step 7: Install the Metra Line Output Converter
Connect the wires from the radio harness to the input wires of the Metra line output converter. The input wires are usually color-coded to match the wires from the radio harness. Twist the wires together and use crimp connectors to secure them.
Next, connect the output wires of the Metra line output converter to the wires that go to your aftermarket amplifier or subwoofer. These wires are also usually color-coded, but consult the wiring diagram to make sure.
Twist the wires together and use crimp connectors to secure them. Be sure to wrap electrical tape around each connection to prevent them from shorting out or coming loose.
Step 8: Reinstall the Radio
Once you have secured all the connections, reinstall the radio into the dashboard. Be sure to test the audio system to ensure that everything is working correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need a line output converter for my car?
If your car has a factory radio and you want to connect an aftermarket amplifier or subwoofer, you will need a line output converter. This is because the factory radio’s output signal is not compatible with most aftermarket audio systems.
2. How do I know which wires to connect?
The wires you need to connect are usually color-coded, but it’s best to consult the wiring diagram to be sure. The wiring diagram can be found in the car owner’s manual or online.
3. What happens if I connect the wires incorrectly?
If you connect the wires incorrectly, you may damage your car’s electrical system or your aftermarket audio system. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and consult the wiring diagram as needed.
4. Can I install the Metra line output converter myself?
Yes, you can install the Metra line output converter yourself if you have some basic knowledge of car audio systems and are comfortable working with electrical wiring. However, if you are not confident in your skills, it’s best to seek professional help.
5. What is the difference between a line output converter and a speaker-level input?
A line output converter is used to convert a high-voltage, low-impedance signal from your car’s factory radio to a low-voltage, high-impedance signal that can be sent to an aftermarket amplifier or subwoofer. A speaker-level input, on the other hand, is an input on an amplifier that accepts a high-voltage, low-impedance signal directly from the car’s speaker wires.
Conclusion
Wiring a Metra line output converter may seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually a straightforward process if you follow the instructions carefully. Be sure to disconnect the battery before starting any work on your car’s electrical system, and consult the wiring diagram as needed to identify the wires. With a little patience and attention to detail, you can enjoy high-quality audio in your car in no time.
| Wire Color | Function |
|---|---|
| Red | Battery positive |
| Yellow | Accessory power |
| Black | Ground |
| Blue/white | Remote turn-on |
| Green | Left front speaker (+) |
| Green/black | Left front speaker (-) |
| Purple | Right front speaker (+) |
| Purple/black | Right front speaker (-) |
| White | Left rear speaker (+) |
| White/black | Left rear speaker (-) |
| Gray | Right rear speaker (+) |
| Gray/black | Right rear speaker (-) |
