F150online Forums - To anyone who has 6X9's in the fronts...Question

You'll want to replace the 5x8 speakers for a better sound. But if you're not a doityourselfer, or you want a better quality install, go to a professional. Almost all methods will be one way operations. The method below is just a guideline, and you can't use super deep 6x9's.
* Remove the door panel
* remove old speakers
* roll down window and measure depth, move window up and down to get the true depth.
* Use speakers that are less than this depth. The speakers are installed so that the back portion is recessed into the door, while the top metal and plastic ring is between the sheet metal and the door panel
* Make a template of the speaker. Not full size. Only back portion up to where it meets the back metal flang with the screw holes.
* Make sure the template allows for metal behind the screws.
* Cut the door sheet metal wider, to allow the magnet and back metal portion to recess into the door. Don't overcut. We're not talking about the entire speaker, only the back portion up to the metal flange that has the screw holes. Make sure there is metal behind the speaker screw holes!
* Mark and drill the 4 speaker screw holes
* Buy some small pipe insulation tubes from a hardware store, and line the new cut with this tubing. This will cut down on undesirable vibrations from the speaker.
* Might want to pickup some sheet metal screws while you're there. (This is also a good time to install sound deadener)
* Wire new speakers.
* Screw in new speakers.
* Test new speakers.
* Reinstall new door panels. There will be a very slight bulge in the speaker area of the door panels.

Also, try a search on "6x9 install" in the forum, This method worked fine for me, but might find a better method. Also, don't waste your time installing 6x9's in the rear speaker area. They're too low. Still looking for a better method of dealing with rear speaker sound in a regular cab ... good luck.