Mach Audio System Questions

[VA-Mach1]

I'm trying to install a Kenwood DNX series GPS/XM head unit. I bought what I thought was the correct adapter harness http://www.ebay.com/itm/390657092733...84.m1497.l2649
Wired it all up, and it works, but the sound is flat. No base at all even with all the setting on the radio turned all the way up.

After more searching I think I may need this harness http://www.ebay.com/itm/321382935096...84.m1423.l2649

Anyone have any real world experience?
Which system does a Mach1 have, 460 or 1000?

[Mach828]

I don't remember the wiring harness part number I used. But I went to the local audio store, and purchased a specific harness for the Mach 460. If they try to sell you a generic Ford harness it won't work. There is one that is Mach 460 specific.

Changing out the headunit made a huge improvement to the audio sound, i thought. Especially when you fine tune the bass, mid, high settings.

[311-420]

Mach 460 is the only system that was available from Ford for our cars.

I'm getting ready to purchase a new aftermarket head unit to replace my current Sony xplode. I know I've got the correct harness because my stereo absolutely jams. When I pull this one out I'll try to remember to put up the info on the harness that I've got. In the mean time, I'd call Crutchfield and ask those guys.

[mustangjonny84]

When I bought my Mach, I wanted to install a head unit that was in my previous car. I called Crutchfield and purchased a harness like the one in your second link. I think that first link looks more like how to get a factory Mach 460 stereo to communicate with aftermarket amps/speakers. But I think you're inquiring about the opposite.

What you're missing now is actually the RCA plugs. An aftermarket head unit typically speaks to aftermarket amps through RCA plugs (or at least that's what I was taught). So you'll hook those RCAs up to your aftermarket HU and it can then be spliced into all the factory wiring for that HU to speak to your factory amps/speakers.

Mine works like a champ. You just have to remember that your 6x8 are going to be considered "sub"s by the new HU. And the little speakers (I think they're 3.5" or something) are going to be your "speakers".

If I happen across the wiring diagrams that came with what I purchased, I'll scan them in.

[VA-Mach1]

Thanks. So definitely a Mach 460 system. Good to know. After failing with the harness in the first link I searched Crutchfield, they showed the harness in the second link. I know, should have checked Crutchfield first. Then I searched ebay for a lower price than CF. I hate to do that because CF is so helpfull but ebay has the same thing for 50% less and free shipping. I already ordered the harness in the second link. When I get it installed I will confirm if its the correct harness unless one of you can confirm it first.

[VA-Mach1]

The harness in the second link is the correct harness for a 03. The one with the RCA plugs did the trick.

[LXS]

Thanks for the info and update! I'm definitely gonna need this as I'm planning on yanking my stock HU out!

[Lonestar77777]

Sony built the stock units in our Mach's!


LS:Santa:

[VA-Mach1]

Originally Posted by Lonestar77777

Sony built the stock units in our Mach's!


LS:Santa:

Please continue with that story

[Lonestar77777]

No real story Sony made the units and the 2004 you had the Sat button added.

LS