Upgrading the audio system in a Ram TRX from the stock Alpine system to the premium Harman Kardon (HK) system is a challenging but achievable task. This comprehensive guide details the process, highlighting the crucial role of an Odometer 7e80 Obdii Scan Tool, like the OBDlink MX+, for diagnostics and programming. This retrofit focuses on achieving a factory-like result, including fully functional Active Noise Cancellation (ANC).
Parts and Tools Required for the HK Upgrade
A successful HK retrofit requires specific components and tools:
- Amplifier: The amplifier choice depends on the presence of a panoramic roof:
- With Panoramic Roof: 68547711AA/AB/AC
- Without Panoramic Roof: 68547712AA/AB/AC
- TRX Specific: 68547713AA/AB/AC (same for with or without panoramic roof)
- Wiring Harness: PAC APH-CH03 harness simplifies adding necessary power wires without cutting the factory harness.
- Speakers: Sourcing used speakers can significantly reduce costs:
- Subwoofer (10”, 5 ohm): 68315544AA
- Dash/Upper Door/Roof (3.5”, 4 ohm): 68584767AA or 68043045AA/AB/AC/AD
- Door (6×9, 4 ohm): 68590588AA or 68043032AB/AC/AD
- Essential Tools:
- Odometer 7e80 OBDII Scan Tool (e.g., OBDlink MX+): Crucial for diagnostics, reading trouble codes, and accessing the radio module for ANC calibration.
- Security Bypass Harness or Tazer
- Android Device
- AlfaOBD Software
Speaker Installation: A Comprehensive Overview
Replacing all speakers is necessary. The subwoofer, located behind the rear seat, requires some wiring adaptation. Dash, roof, and 6×9 door speakers are plug-and-play. Upper door speakers require wiring into empty sockets or running wires through the door plug, necessitating careful routing.
Amplifier Wiring and Integration
The Alpine and HK amplifier plugs are largely similar. Key differences include an extra power and ground connection for the HK amp and repurposing subwoofer outputs for the upper door speakers. The PAC harness simplifies this process, providing the extra power and ground connections and allowing for tapping into the necessary outputs without cutting factory wires.
Programming with the Odometer 7e80 OBDII Scan Tool
Programming is critical for proper functionality. The body computer requires adjusting the “cabin equalization curve” to “Crew Cab Premium 3 (Harman 12ch) (RAM).” However, the crucial step involves addressing the ANC system. An odometer 7e80 OBDII scan tool is essential here. It reveals a “B2201 configuration mismatch” trouble code indicating an ANC calibration issue.
The ANC calibration is specific to cab, engine, and bed length. Using the odometer 7e80 OBDII scan tool and AlfaOBD, along with a backup file from a TRX with HK, allows for extracting the correct ANC calibration data and applying it to the vehicle. This process clears the trouble code and ensures proper ANC function.
Conclusion: Achieving Factory-Quality Sound with the Right Tools
This HK retrofit delivers improved sound quality, louder volume, and retains factory ANC functionality. The process, while intricate, is cost-effective when using used parts. The odometer 7e80 OBDII scan tool plays a vital role in diagnosing and resolving the ANC calibration issue, ensuring a successful and fully functional upgrade. The end result is a system indistinguishable from a factory-installed HK system.
