Audio Systems: 1996 Chrysler Sebring OEM Amp, chrysler sebring, pioneer unit

Question
I have recently replaced the factory stereo in my 1996 Chrysler Sebring with a Pioneer DEH-P2500 Head Unit w/CD player.  The unit powers up fine and plays (because I have taken external speakers and connected and it was playing, but the speakers in the vehicle will not.  I realize this is most likely because the factory amplifier is getting no power.  It is an Infinity amp, but I can't find the model.  I can't find any wires which would allow me to determine the power source for the amp.  It worked fine before I took the factory system out.  Do you have any idea where I can find this info, or any suggestions as to what I need to do?

Answer
If the system you removed is an Infinity system there is an external amplifier mounted somewhere in the car that drives the amplifier.  Your new head unit must have its line level output connected to the inputs of the Infinity amp.

OR: you can bypass the Infinity amp and power the speakers directly from the head unit. The Pioneer unit has 50 watts per channel output which may be adequate.

So, you must decide which way you are going to go with the installation.

If you want to go direct from the Head unit to the speakers you must find the wires from each speaker or run new wires to the head unit outputs.  The pioneer unit should have connection information in the booklet that comes with it. You can also download wiring information from the pioneerelectronics.com web pages.  Wiring information which may help you can be found at:

http://installdr.com/Harnesses/DCP-Wiring.pdf

If you decide to go with the Infinity amp you must connect the outputs of the Pioneer to the Infinity amp.  The Pioneer unit has preamp outputs that will feed the Infinity just fine.  You may need a conversion kit from places like

www.installer.com

or Crutchfield.com and so on.

To find the amp, follow or trace wiring back from the speakers to the output of the amp.  It is usually under the front seat or in the trunk space. Some models have two amps; one for the front and one for the back speakers.  If you have the manual on the car it should tell you where they were install in your model year.  You can also stop in at a car parts shop and take a look at the Chilton guide.

Also, Crutchfield can tell you a wiring harness for your car that will help you connect up. Just call or go online and be prepared to give them exact make, model and audio system; from there they can help you with the right cable harness for either way you are going to install the Pioneer.  The harnesses usually cost around $10 to $30.

I have given you a few options to consider.  Hope it helps you with the installation design....