Audio Systems: Chrysler/Infinity Speaker Problems, chrysler new yorker, yorker landau

Question
Tom,

I have a 1988 Chrysler New Yorker Landau with a factory Chrysler/Infinity sound system. This is a 6 speaker system with each speaker having its own individual amplifier attached to the back of the speaker.

I currently have sound from the front left speaker, and intermittent sound from the right rear speaker which will come on if I raise the volume high enough. The head unit works o.k., and I would like to keep the system in original condition.

I believe the problem is in the amplifier on the speakers, but have been unable to find replacement speakers from Chrysler or aftermarket suppliers.

I have the mechanical/electronic experience to repair the amplifiers if I have enough information to determine the problem component. While I don't claim to be an electronics expert, I have built HeathKit stereos and other items, can use voltmeters, soldering iron, etc. So my request is for your expertise. Do you have experience with these speakers? If so, is there a particular component that is usually the problem in these amplifiers?  Is there any schematic with test points and normal values available?

If you have any information on where I can buy replacement amplifiers or amplifier/speaker combination, that would also be appreciated.

Thanks in advance for your time and consideration of my problem.

Gary Jones

Answer
Gary,
I have rebuilt many of these amp units, the most likely cause is that one or more of the capacitors on the circuit board is breaking down internally. in many cases when the cap fails it will leak the electrolytic solution onto the circuit board causing corrosion on the circuit boards. If you carefully remove and replace all the caps on the amp boards and clean up/remove and repair any corrosion damage the amp boards should work like new again.

TOM,
T&D ELECTRONICS
tdeser@zoominternet.net