Mounting an External Speaker in a Jeep JK Unlimited

This is Part 4 of Outfitting a Jeep JK Unlimited for Ham Radio. In this part, I will install an external speaker so we can hear what comes over the radio.

Amateur Radio Equipment to Install

1. Yaesu MLS-100 Mobile Speaker

Tools and Equipment Used

1. Yaesu YSK-857 Separation Kit
2. Phillips Head Screwdriver
3. Electric Drill and Bits
4. Wire Ties, 24-Inches in Length

Step One – Run Speaker Extension Cable

The YSK-857 Separation Kit includes a long speaker extension cable. I am taking a path up from the radio (located under the passenger’s seat) up through the door jam between the passenger and rear door, through the Nerf bars, and then to the middle of the roll bar where the dome light lives.

First, let’s loosen the padding on the Nerf bars.  It is easier with the top down.

Pull back the padding where the door jam meets the upper Nerf bar.

Step Two – Draw Speaker Extension Cable to Floor

This is the top of the seat belt assembly column.

This is the lower section as seen from the back seat door.

Step Three – Remove Access Panel and Draw Cable

At the base of the bar, you will find an access panel. Open it with a flat-head screwdriver.

The draw the speaker extension cable through the panel.

Close the panel and tuck excess cable under the plastic molding.

Insert the speaker extension cable into the external speaker port on the radio.

Step Three – Draw Remainder to the Center Console

Seal the Nerf Bar where you started the downward path to the radio.

Now, draw the speaker extension cable through the “canyon” that is part of the top roll bar assembly.

Draw the plug end of the speaker extension cable to the center of the roll bar.

Next, twist tie the excess cable and store within the Nerf Bar. They zippered cloth will secure the cable when you ride topless. I have yet to have a problem with cable coming loose and flying around.

Step Three – Connect Speaker and Test

Plug the MLS-100 into the extension cable and turn on your radio. You should hear something.

Step Four – Drill Holes and Mount the Speaker

Here’s another place where Jeep owners have to suck it up and drill a hole.

First, I secured the bracket with wire ties.  I used 2-foot wire ties to get around the assembly.

Next, drilled holes into the overhead assembly and then secured the bracket with machine screws.

Finally, I installed the speaker.

Here is the completed assembly from the passenger’s side.

No, the speaker never makes it into the field of view in my rear view mirror.