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View Full Version : How to change 318ti rear speakers (write-up with pictures!)


e30fiend
02-20-2005, 06:20 AM
How to change the rear speakers in a 318ti

By Eric Miller (eric@switz.org)

As you probably know, the rear speakers in a BMW 318ti are not a standard size. The only aftermarket speakers that fit without modification are MB Quartz (size 4T), there may be others so don't quote me on that. This article describes my efforts (with pictures) to mount Eclipse 4" speakers in to the stock rear speaker mount.

First remove the side bolster from the back seat and carpet and trim from around the speaker, disconnect the wires for the tweeter mounted in the grill piece, then remove the speaker mount (4 screws) from the grill piece. This should be fairly self explanatory if you look.


De-solder the wires attached to the speaker poles, we will solder these to our new speakers. You can see that the speaker is held in place by 4 tabs around the edge that have locked in place under a tab, and secured with glue. Using a thin flathead screwdriver, carefully inch the blade around the edge of the speaker to unseat the glue (pic below).

http://i.imgur.com/Ijuui.jpg


You pretty much have no chance of rotating the speaker to get the tabs out of the way, so I just busted them off. You could still use the old rear speaker if you use glue, I suppose. Pry the speaker out of the mount.

http://i.imgur.com/3Eb7p.jpg


A standard 4" speaker will not fit into the original mount location because of the mounting holes sticking out in the 4 corners. What I did is bend these corners back so the mounting hole is then perpendicular to the face of the speaker. Be careful not to bend the metal where the cone attaches.

http://i.imgur.com/zNqyG.jpg

(since the board limits the number of images per post, the write-up continues in the next post below.)

e30fiend
02-20-2005, 06:20 AM
Now slide/wedge the speaker into the mount, facing up. Unfortunately I could not mount the speaker in the exact same place as the original speaker, rather it faces up directly underneath the grill.

http://i.imgur.com/YZ525.jpg


At this point you're probably wondering "How does the speaker stay firmly in the mount?", here is how. The speaker inside the mount has 4 tabs with holes that are facing the walls of the mount. Carefully drill small holes in the side of the plastic mount in the same position as two of the speaker tabs. Simply take a small bolt and push it through the outside of the plastic, through the mounting hole on the speaker.

http://i.imgur.com/lurjb.jpg


Then position the nut on the inside to receive the bolt and screw it tight. Use washers if you choose, or lok-tite, to prevent rattling; I used washers.

http://i.imgur.com/HilB5.jpg


Last, solder the wires from the clip to the new speaker. In my case it was not obvious which poles on the old speakers corresponded with the new speakers, so I made sure to just wire up both speakers the same way (ie stripe - small pole, no stripe - large pole).

http://i.imgur.com/4Xfyf.jpg


Installation is reverse of removal!

gadgetphreak
02-20-2005, 08:09 PM
Cool write-up, was this for Swits' car?

How do they sound over stock? What else have you changed of the stock system?

Gadget

swits
02-20-2005, 11:42 PM
Cool write-up, was this for Swits' car?

How do they sound over stock? What else have you changed of the stock system?

Gadget

Yup! We did this on my car. So far we've replaced the 2 kickpanel speakers with 5.25" Infinity 2 ways and the rear speakers with 4'' Eclipses. I also have a 10" Rockford Fosgate Punch sub and 600 watt amp. It sounds really awesome! (my car is finally louder than Eric's!) :) I was really suprised at what a huge difference each of the upgrades made, and the best part is that it all looks stock, except the sub of course. We'll have to get together sometime so you can check it out!

gadgetphreak
02-21-2005, 01:03 AM
Wow, congrats... I would love to hear how it sounds. I am in the process of planning out what changes to make, the only thing I am a bit concerned about is vibrations... E36's are notorious for vibrations with aftermarket systems. How is yours doing with those mods?

The only thing I have besides the stock system is a 6disk mp3/cd changer and a Kenwood 300watt amp and 8" Bazooka tube. Which is filtered to just lay in the really deep lows. It helps quite a bit, but the whole system could use a boost.

The key thing for me is being able to wire in my iPod, I am going with this Alpine 9855 (http://www.crutchfield.com/S-WLVHRKePAbr/cgi-bin/ProdView.asp?i=500CDA9855&search=alpine+9855) for the head unit.

http://akamaipix.crutchfield.com/products/2004/500/h500CDA9855-f.jpeg

Now I just need to figure out how to lay out my speakers now... Your set up sounds really close to what I had in mind.

Cheers,
Gadget

swits
02-21-2005, 01:41 AM
the only thing I am a bit concerned about is vibrations... E36's are notorious for vibrations with aftermarket systems. How is yours doing with those mods?

I listen to electronic music and even on tracks with really hard bass, I haven't noticed any vibrations or rattling at all. I've read that some other ti owners have complained about rattling, but it's never happened to me before.

I really like that Alpine head unit! The last thing I want to get for my set up is an mp3 player. Let me know how that one works out for you!

97Hellrot318ti
03-29-2005, 12:52 AM
I am going with this Alpine 9855 (http://www.crutchfield.com/S-WLVHRKePAbr/cgi-bin/ProdView.asp?i=500CDA9855&search=alpine+9855) for the head unit.

http://akamaipix.crutchfield.com/products/2004/500/h500CDA9855-f.jpeg



Hey, no fair... that one's cooler than mine... looks pretty much the same except for the upgraded display. Good choice in getting an Alpine!

barney_gomez
05-29-2005, 06:05 PM
I just wanna thank u coz i did use ur guide yesterday and i got my speakers changed... i really like them now, its is just greatt..

jflip2002
05-29-2005, 07:41 PM
Just a note on the iPod wiring to your aftermarket deck. The reviews are horrible. Its noted that only 8 characters display on the deck. I bought a new Pioneer Deck that plays MP3, WAV, and AAC (Itunes downloads). It works very well, and as you'd know, holds about 150 songs. Id recommend that over the ipod wiring. And besides I havent seen an ipod wiring configuration yet that didnt expose the wires.

As for rattling. Mine doesnt rattle, and I have 2 1000 watt Audiobahn subs in my trunk. The ones Xzibit has in his hummer. It sounds just fine.

John L Rice
07-10-2005, 09:09 PM
Hey Eric,

Thanks much for the write up. I have some MB Quarts that have been sitting around impatiently waiting to be installed and your write up will help I'm sure!

If I caught the reference right you and SWITS a couple? If so, a very fine looking couple indeed, congrats! Hey SWITS, do you have an older sister . . . much MUCH older?? :no: ? :ashamed: :biggrin:

I live in Tacoma and work in downtown Seattle and occasionally get over to the east side, if you two, or any one else on the list for that matter, see me feel free to honk, wave, flip me off etc!

JPerfect
10-09-2005, 01:16 AM
That's a great writeup, that's exactly what I did to install my rear speakers a year ago. I put in 3.25" speakers as well, and had to bend the corners. I also bought an Alpine head unit recently.

Then I blew the rear speakers...

xturtle
03-27-2006, 12:24 PM
http://www.318ti.org/gallery/data/582/100_1264-1.jpg

alpine 6X9 and Pioneer TS-WX900A in rear

G.T.
09-04-2006, 11:15 PM
Finally got around to replacing my rear speakers and the write-up was definitely very helpful. Thanks a bunch, e30fiend!

b.u.ti-ful
09-25-2006, 04:08 AM
Eric, you rock!

After typing BMW speaker part numbers into google to no avail, I read your speaker post and I'm heading to the local audio store tomorrow to get some 4" speakers to fit into the mounts. Thanks a lot!

marcopolio
03-22-2007, 01:15 PM
Wow, I really wish you had written this like eight months ago. I replaced my speakers last summer and it was a huge pain in the ass. I couldn't find anything on the internet about it. I went with polk 5 1/4 component speakers all around and some how go the back ones to fit. Damn German engineering.

L84THSKY
03-22-2007, 03:19 PM
Can you provide a link to a seller for the MB QUART 4T? I searched all over, can't get any hits when I google it. Many places sell MB QUART, but none specifically mention the model 4T.

Sorry guys, moved web hosts and forgot about those pics, they are back now.

Glad to hear the write-up has been so helpful!

:cool:

Kaliimc
09-23-2007, 06:52 AM
Can you provide a link to a seller for the MB QUART 4T? I searched all over, can't get any hits when I google it. Many places sell MB QUART, but none specifically mention the model 4T.

Any results from this post? I could use replacements for my car.

b.u.ti-ful
09-23-2007, 03:05 PM
I picked up 4 inch speakers from autozone and put them in exactly as shown in this posting and everything is great.

React
11-10-2007, 08:26 AM
I put 5.25 in the rear, it was a pita. Wish I knew they had 4" name brands available.

b.u.ti-ful
11-10-2007, 03:15 PM
I found this web page that shows larger replacement speakers! But, it says they are "sold?" Check it out http://www.vitessetuning.com/partsbin.asp

Shellback
07-15-2009, 05:20 PM
"First remove the side bolster from the back seat and carpet and trim from around the speaker...."

Please help. How do you remove the side bolster? I'm trying to access the rear speakers as described in the OP but I'm afraid of tearing up my matting, carpet, etc.
Thanks.....SB :smile:

tiFreak
07-16-2009, 04:17 AM
grab it at the top and pull towards the front of the car, the top clip will come loose

I don't think you'll break anything so don't be afraid to really yank on it

Shellback
07-16-2009, 05:50 PM
roger....i'll give it a shot today...thanks

LostCause
07-17-2009, 02:12 AM
just to let everyone know, i got in ebay and found adaptors from germany that house a 5 1/4 speaker in the rear spots. its just a adaptor and let me tell you it kicks ass! took me about a hour to switch both speakers and it sounds/ looks alot better! plus the adaptors were only 20 bucks.

Shellback
08-07-2009, 04:53 AM
grab it at the top and pull towards the front of the car, the top clip will come loose

I don't think you'll break anything so don't be afraid to really yank on it

Ok, I started to proceed as indicated above, and the damned thing just bent like crap, while still attached! :eek:
Am I doing this right? So, it’s just a quick, firm pull forward, not upward, or anywhere else? If someone could post an image with maybe labeling where to grab and pull, I'd really appreciate it.
Thank you.

tiFreak
08-07-2009, 05:01 AM
might be that it was already broken by a PO, mine just pulled right forward, the bottom clips didn't come off on mine but it did pivot forward

batmite
06-25-2010, 04:35 AM
I used pretty much the same method, but instead of turning the tabs down I turned them up. It's a lot easier to tighten them up in preparation for re-installation.

The speakers are Pioneer TS-G1043R's, 4 inch.

Also I used metric machine screws with nylock nuts. Don't like those puppies rattling loose! :P

Sandino
07-28-2010, 05:39 AM
cool nice post. ill be hopefully doing this soon!

familytruckster
07-29-2010, 12:55 AM
My rear replacements...

http://318ti.org/forum/showthread.php?t=30864

Mr. Crow
09-18-2010, 03:02 AM
I used pretty much the same method, but instead of turning the tabs down I turned them up. It's a lot easier to tighten them up in preparation for re-installation.

The speakers are Pioneer TS-G1043R's, 4 inch.

Also I used metric machine screws with nylock nuts. Don't like those puppies rattling loose! :P

Just did this replacement today, using these same speakers. Not a bad improvement for $40 bucks. My speakers were blown to smitherines.

Great write-up. It's totally universal if anyone wants to add their own twist on the mod.

Sounds much better!

32styledTI
03-28-2011, 10:37 PM
just to let everyone know, i got in ebay and found adaptors from germany that house a 5 1/4 speaker in the rear spots. its just a adaptor and let me tell you it kicks ass! took me about a hour to switch both speakers and it sounds/ looks alot better! plus the adaptors were only 20 bucks.

I guess this is the only way to add larger speakers into the back of the car?

I cannot beleave 4" speakers are enough for most people, I was thinking 6x9 adaptors but I dont see anything remotly close avalible...

I guess butchering the rear parcel trey is the only way to add in decent sized speakers?

batmite
03-29-2011, 02:25 AM
I guess this is the only way to add larger speakers into the back of the car?

I cannot beleave 4" speakers are enough for most people, I was thinking 6x9 adaptors but I dont see anything remotly close avalible...

I guess butchering the rear parcel trey is the only way to add in decent sized speakers?

It's a little tight back there, I guess you'll see that when you open it up. There used to be a German company that made adapter plates for 6 inch speakers (they sold thru Ebay.de). I have not seen those for sale anywhere, they had disappeared from the market years ago before I even had the car, LOL.. It just so happens that the 4 inch was the easiest solution... :)

Bozola
05-30-2011, 12:03 AM
Did this today. Time consuming, but easy enough for a non-dyi like me.

Sounds awesome.

old_sports_cars
11-19-2011, 04:09 AM
Pioneer TS-G1043R 4" Coaxial Speaker Pair 120W

from Parts Express. I live close to their store and the guy helped me pick these out.

http://www.parts-express.com/pe/showdetl.cfm?Partnumber=267-251&FTR=ts-g1043r


Thanks for the DIY tip.
Ray

kmsnsx
12-27-2011, 04:45 AM
FYI, this can be done without removing the seat bolster, just have to flip the seat forward and you can get to all the screws by moving the side carpet

austinindian
01-23-2012, 09:55 PM
Was thinking about picking these up. Should work just fine per this tutorial, no?

Or do I need to find a 4'' mid to low end woofer?

http://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-4-Inch-Coaxial-Speakers/dp/B000P0R6GQ/ref=sr_1_6?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1327351697&sr=1-6

familytruckster
01-23-2012, 11:03 PM
Was thinking about picking these up. Should work just fine per this tutorial, no?

Or do I need to find a 4'' mid to low end woofer?

http://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-4-Inch-Coaxial-Speakers/dp/B000P0R6GQ/ref=sr_1_6?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1327351697&sr=1-6


should work fine. A few of us use these....
http://www.parts-express.com/pe/showdetl.cfm?Partnumber=290-212

austinindian
01-23-2012, 11:08 PM
Thank you, familytruckster. I saw CirrusSR22 posted up a hack with the Polk Components speakers (5'' one I think). Might not be as elegant, but I might look into that as well.

familytruckster
01-23-2012, 11:11 PM
Whatever works. I decided to hack mine up. Sounds good too, I got mine 50% off....so I couldn't beat the deal. I did a write up too....

http://www.318ti.org/forum/showthread.php?t=30864&highlight=rear+speakers

austinindian
05-29-2012, 04:39 PM
Looks like we lost the pictures. Does anyone have them?

ryszardsh
05-29-2012, 10:14 PM
ECS tuning, at least a/o last Friday, had a number of the OEM BMW 4 inch rear speakers on special/sale. No connection with ECS except I shop there sometimes, seemed like a decent price cut on a very hard to find thing.

RAS

austinindian
05-29-2012, 10:51 PM
Well, I bought this speaker system:

Rockford Fosgate Prime R152-S 5.25-Inch Component Speaker System

And my plan was to do the hack to modify, hopefully hide everything with the plastic panel.

e36fiend
09-15-2012, 12:46 AM
Looks like we lost the pictures. Does anyone have them?

Sorry, I had long forgotten about this post and no longer have web hosting, unfortunately I am not sure if I have a backup of the pictures either :(

e30fiend
10-08-2012, 11:22 PM
Woohoo! I found the original pictures and re-uploaded them, hopefully this procedure is still relevant :)

Quickcars
03-27-2013, 05:54 PM
Thanks for this. My original speakers are blown and this helps a lot. I'm doing this switch over the weekend.

R111S
07-09-2013, 03:03 AM
The rear Polk 4 Inch DB401 Speakers didn't last long so I put in Blaupunkt 4x6 GTx-462 DE Speakers. I paid $42.99 plus shipping from Amazon. They're rated at 35 Watts RMS (160 Watts Peak) and have a better Frequency Response of 80 Hz to 22 kHz.

I decided to mount the speakers flat against the Grill. I cut the old mounts for the 4inch units and used them to secure the 4x6 units across the longest dimension of the rear opening. I then sealed the air gaps using cut pieces of Corrugated Plastic (old Garage Sale Sign) secured with Goop Adhesive. I suspect the Voice Coils may last longer due to the flat mounting versus the angled OEM mounts. The Blaupunkts sound better than the Polk Speakers probably due to the better frequency response and higher peak power handling capability.:biggrin:

MrBonkers
08-08-2013, 09:27 PM
Thanks for the write up this will be coming in handy within the next few months. My drivers side sounds like garbage now. Thank you.

John Nicholson
05-30-2014, 04:35 AM
I didn't see this write up before doing mine so my dyi is a bit different. I had some 4 inch speakers laying around from a different project, they were 2 way speakers, a woofer only 4 inch would have been preferable.\
\
Of course you have to remove the carpet kit from the rear first, if you have the cd changer that needs to come out as well. On the right side there is the latch cable for the fuel fill door so you just need to move the carpet out of the way.\
\
Remove the 4 screws that hold the speaker assembly.\
\
Clip the wires off to the woofer or de solder, if you have the 10 speaker version like mine, it's likely your tweeters are fine\
\
Now look at the picture in the first post. Instead of trying to pry apart the glue holding the speaker to the speaker tube, I cut off the radials of the speaker itself so that they are flush to the diameter of the speaker. Note: you will mount the new speaker directly to the outer ring remnants of the old speaker.\
\
Now trim where you cut the radials so you have a smooth circle.\
\
Mount the new speakers, if done properly it should snap in flush.\
\
Bend the tabs for the screws upward so parallel with speaker tube, put some screws in and re solder the wires to new speakers.\
\
This method has the advantage of still using the OEM speaker tube as intended.

98318ti
06-29-2015, 11:53 PM
I just used this thread to replace a speaker and thought I would update it with what I did.

1. After breaking the glue loose you can rotate the speaker with a little careful pressure from a long screwdriver. The you can carefully pry the speaker up.

2. Found some speakers that were as close to the right size as possible.

3. Used a dremel and exacto knife to cut slots out in speaker cone where the original slots were.

4. Insert speaker in slots and used some black silicone to secure it

I will let you know how it sounds, but it has to better than the blown speaker in there now.

adcurtin
03-30-2018, 02:35 AM
I designed my own adapter to be 3d printed for putting 5.25" speakers in the back of my 318ti. Here's a link if you want to download it and print your own: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2844756

FunElan
03-30-2018, 07:59 PM
Wow, that's amazing!! Thanks for sharing your design. Too bad I just zip tied some 4 inch speakers in.

nikzion
10-04-2020, 03:00 AM
This is great to know. If I get my Ti running I'm doing this!

kevinnn
04-05-2022, 05:50 PM
Just finished repairing my rear speakers, you don't need to destroy the mounts or get aftermarket ones. A cheap foam repair kit (< $40) is all it takes, I made a quick video showing how:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BEnLB7NbbX0