!! WARNING 

Double check the clearance for both speakers before proceeding. Many cars are different from one side to the other!

Woofer INSTALLATION

The woofers should be installed in one of the following ways depending on location:



Factory Location: If you will be using the factory speaker wires, it may be necessary to change the terminations. This may be accomplished by using an adaptor plug or simply by cutting the factory connector off and using the supplied crimp connectors to terminate the speaker wires. The large connector is for the positive (+) terminal and the small connector is for the negative (–) terminal of each woofer. Keep in mind that the woofer wires must be connected to the woofer outputs of the crossovers supplied with your system as shown in the diagram on page 5. If you prefer to run new wires, refer to the “Custom Location” installation section for details. Whichever method you choose, observe correct polarity in your connections. If you are unsure about any of these issues, contact your 

JL Audio dealer for installation assistance.

Your new speakers have been designed to install, without modifications, into most vehicles that accept

a6.5-inch (160 mm) speaker. Most factory 6.5-inch speakers use four mounting screws which will line up with the mounting holes on your woofers.

It is absolutely vital that the speaker frame fits into the mounting hole cleanly. This must be checked prior to tightening the screws. Do not force the frame into a hole that is too small. Do not tighten the speaker onto an uneven surface. This will damage your speakers. The speaker should also fit so that air does not leak around the mounting flange. Air leaks will cause a severe degradation in sound quality. Seal any air leaks with an automotive-grade sealant material.

Use the supplied mounting clips unless the factory holes already feature threaded inserts.  Hand-tighten the screws evenly (See Diagram I).

Custom Location: Run speaker wire to the desired mounting locations. If you are running wires into a door, use existing factory wiring boots whenever possible. If you are drilling new holes, file their edges and install rubber grommets into each hole. Wires should then be covered with a protective, flexible PVC sleeve and then run through the door jamb. Make sure that the wires will clear door hinges and other structures in the door. If you are unsure about any part of this process, please contact your JL Audio dealer for installation help.

Select an even surface. Tightening a speaker onto an uneven surface can damage it. Carefully measure and mark the “mounting hole diameter” outline in the selected location using the dimensions listed on page 2. Before drilling or cutting on your interior panels, use a utility knife to cut any fabric, vinyl

or leather from hole locations. These materials can easily be snagged by a drill or a saw, causing damage to the panel and possible bodily injury. Drill a pilot hole in the center of the proposed speaker mounting hole. Then, using a saber saw with an appropriate blade, make the circular cut out for the speaker. File any rough edges.

After cutting the hole, check to see that the speaker frame fits into its mounting hole cleanly. Do not force the frame into a hole that is too small. Once the speaker is in place, use the holes on the speaker’s mounting flange to mark the panel where the four mounting screws will be positioned (See Diagram J). Remove the speaker and drill 1/8-inch (3 mm) holes at each mark. Insert the mounting clips with the flat side towards the speaker. Connect the speaker wires, observing correct polarity, and secure the speaker and grille tray to the panel by evenly tightening by hand the provided #8 x 1.25 inch (32 mm) mounting screws. Make sure the woofer is secured so that air does not leak around the mounting flange. Air leaks will cause a severe degradation in sound quality. Seal any air leaks with an automotive-grade sealant material.

10 JL Audio - C3-525 Owner’s Manual

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JL Audio C3-100ct, C3-525-XO, C3-525-020810, C3-525cw Woofer Installation, JL Audio dealer for installation assistance
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C3-525, C3-525-020810, C3-525cw, C3-100ct, C3-525-XO specifications

JL Audio is synonymous with high-quality audio equipment, and their C3 series speakers represent a remarkable blend of performance, durability, and innovation. Among the standout models are the C3-525-XO, C3-100ct, C3-525cw, C3-525-020810, and C3-525. Each of these speakers is engineered to deliver superior sound quality, making them ideal for discerning audiophiles and casual listeners alike.

The C3-525-XO is a 5.25-inch coaxial speaker designed to reproduce a dynamic range of sound. It features a premium-grade woofer cone made of infused polypropylene, ensuring crisp mids and solid bass. The unique floating tweeter design allows for improved sound dispersion and imaging, making it suitable for a variety of installation locations.

Next in the lineup is the C3-100ct, a dedicated tweeter that enhances the high-frequency output of any audio system. With its 1-inch aluminum dome tweeter, the C3-100ct produces clean, detailed treble frequencies. It also incorporates a neodymium magnet structure, which helps in maximizing performance while minimizing weight, making it a great option for custom-fit installations.

For those seeking greater bass response, the C3-525cw is a powerful component subwoofer that excels in low-frequency reproduction. It features a robust voice coil and high excursion design, creating deep, rich bass that enhances overall sound fidelity. The C3-525cw is designed with durability in mind, with a polypropylene cone that resists damage from moisture and UV exposure.

The C3-525-020810 is a versatile option that combines the qualities of both coaxial and component speakers. It is specially designed to integrate seamlessly into various systems while providing excellent sound quality. Its shallow mounting depth allows for installation in tighter spaces without sacrificing audio performance.

Finally, the standard C3-525 offers a balanced sound profile suitable for a wide range of music genres. Equipped with JL Audio's signature technologies and materials, it ensures a robust performance with extended frequency response and minimal distortion.

Together, these models showcase JL Audio's commitment to innovative design and exceptional sound. Each speaker in the C3 series combines the latest audio technologies with meticulous engineering, promising an immersive listening experience that appeals to every music lover. Whether you are upgrading your audio system or building a new one, investing in JL Audio's C3 series will elevate your in-car or home audio experience to new heights.
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