I own a 1998 expedition and I want to run an amp to power all 4 of my speakers in the doors. I will be running 60watts rms and would like to know if the wires going to the speakers can handle all of the power. Will everything be fine or will I have to rewire the whole truck?

 

When I replaced the system in my truck I added a Alpine HU and 2 amps I decided that the power output of new system was much greater than the stock so it was time to upgrade the speaker wires also. The stock wiring was so small that the extra capability of going with heavier aftermarket wire couldn`t hurt. I was able to get a spool of 12 Gauge Lightning Audio speaker wire for dirt cheap so I used it. Ran all new wiring to the speakers in the doors from the amps. Tried it once with the stock wires, and then with the new wires and it did make a difference in sound.

In my case since we had the truck pretty much disassembled for the system install it was real easy to run the wires when we had the chance. If you are doing just the wire upgrade remember you will have to take off all the door panels and some lower trim pieces to runn the wiring and slip it through the door grommets. This will take some time to do if you want it to look nice and be hidden well afterwards

This is just my opinion but there are plenty of people here that have the knowledge of systems and their requiremnts(wiring) that will also be glad to help.

 

Have to, no
Should you, sure

 

Stock wiring is 18 gauge, good for about 50 watts rms. A 16 gauge wire is supposed to be good for up to 100 watts rms. So I've been told...

 

well, if you use 16 gauge or a better (the metal ford uses in the wiring is crap) 18 gauge, your system will run a lot cooler (has to work less to push power through less-resistant cabling) and you'll get better overall performance and longevity of your amp(s).

Rule of thumb- if it fits, go bigger. In an F150/expy, low-oxygen 14-16 gauge is great for components and multiranges. Now subs and amp power cables... that would be another story altogether.

 

I just ran new wires but going to a separate amp. Stock wires can prob. handle 60wrms but I'd upgrade. It's a bit of a pain to fish the wire through the rubber boot/accordion between the door/body. Pop the rubber out of the hole on the door and on the body, then fish the wire to the hole in the door, fish it through the rubber accordion, then slice a small slit into the inner portion of the body rubber (inside of the body out of the weather) and fish the wire through there. Tape it to a straightened coat hanger and bend it to push it through. Not that hard. Sometimes needle-nose pliers are helpful for fishing the wire. Then run it up to the dash to the stereo location or to where your amps are.