Installing a custom stereo in your Chevy S-10 is a great way to upgrade the interior. The centerpiece of any upgraded stereo is the sub, and every sub needs a sub box to sound its best. However, the cab of the S-10 is a very different shape from the vehicles that most pre-built speaker boxes are designed for. Building a custom sub box is the best solution for achieving great bass reproduction in your Chevy S-10 truck.
Measure the space behind the front seats of your Chevy S-10 truck. This space will vary depending on the cab configuration.
Measure the diameter and depth of the sub you want to install. Add 2 inches to each dimension to determine the minimum box size.
Calculate the interior volume by subtracting twice the width of the MDF from each dimension and multiplying the length by the width by the height. If you're using 1/2-inch MDF, subtract 1 inch from each dimension.
Compare the volume of the box to the recommended enclosure volume for the sub listed in the manufacturer's documentation. Adjust the dimensions until you have a sub box that will fit in the space in your S-10 but also satisfies the recommended volume from the manufacturer.
Cut the pieces of the box out of the MDF. Cut two pieces for the front to add strength.
Draw the outline of the sub on the two front pieces. Drill a hole through the center of the space, then put the jigsaw through the hole and cut out the hole for the sub. Do the same in the rear panel for the terminal cup.
Assemble the box using the screws and the wood glue to secure the sides together. Screw the large sides into the small sides for strength. Caulk the inside of all the joints with silicone caulk for strength and to seal the box.
Install the terminal cup in the back panel, using the screws to secure it, then attach the speaker wire to the terminals on the inside. Run the speaker wire through the box. Attach it to the terminals on the sub and secure the sub in the front panel with the screws.
Glue Velcro onto the bottom of the speaker box with wood glue. Attach the corresponding strips to the carpet in the cab of your S-10 with fabric glue.
Run speaker wire from your amplifier to the location of your speaker box. Use a screwdriver to lift the edge of the trim and carpet to hide the wire underneath.
Attach the wire to the terminal cup on the back of the sub box then set the sub box in place on the Velcro.
