Car Stereos: subwoofer wiring, rubber grommet, inline fuse

Question
I am trying to install subwoofers.
I have a 1998 ford explorer and can not figure out how to get the wire from the back of the car to the battery.
Is there a hole already in the dash somewhere or do I need to drill a hole?  If so, where would be the best spot to drill?
thanks for your help.
jennifer

Answer
It sounds like you are on the right track.  There is not a hole already in the firewall for your amp wire, so you will need to drill one.  First, you need to find a rubber grommet that will fit snugly over your wire (more lose than tight).  Determine what size hole the grommet is made for.  Look up under the dash kind of behind the brake pedal.  There should be other things going through the firewall.  Pick a fairly easy spot to get to that is out of the way of anything.  Then, look on the engine side, using the existing wires going through, and make sure there are no obstructions on the outside where you plan on drilling your hole.  If both sides are clear of obstacles and somewhat out of the way of anything, then drill the hole using a bit the size for the grommet.  After the hole is drilled, use a small file or pocket knife and knock down any metal burrs that might be sticking out.  Install the grommet, then feed your wire through the grommet.  Be sure and put an inline fuse within a foot of the battery (30 or 40 amp).  That way if there is ever any type of short in that wire, you won't ruin your battery or charging system.  Also, make sure your ground wire is the same size or larger than your power wire, and be sure that your ground is within a couple of feet to your amp.  The shorter the ground wire, the better.  Hope this helps, Scott