How to Fix MTX Subwoofer Cones

"Massive" best describes MTX subs..

MTX Audio started in 1979 with a mission to bring massive concert hall sound to cars and trucks. MTX became known for big, deep sub-woofers, and extended the state-of-the-art with its patented square driver design. Under Loyd Ivey, MTX follows the lead of the incomparable James B. Lansing. Consequently, the materials used in MTX subs, while the highest quality, are also classic and fixable like other high quality sub-woofers. A damaged MTX sub can be made new again in many respects.

Things You'll Need

• Glue
• Nail polish
• Repair patch
• Speaker surrounds
• Adhesive
• Knife or flat-head screwdriver
• Phillips screwdriver

Instructions

Repairs to the Cone

1. Remove the screws that hold the loudspeaker to the enclosure. If the gasket (frame) is stuck, use a flat-head screwdriver to gently nudge it from the box surface.

2. Remove the speaker from the cabinet. Disconnect the wires from the back of the speaker.

3. Lie the speaker on its back on the work surface.

4. Repair simple cone tears with super glue or nail polish. Use enough glue/polish to make a thin film over the crack.

5. Repair holes or larger tears from the rear of the cone, attaching a small amount of patch paper or thin plastic after applying glue to both the cone and patch surfaces.

Replace Cone Surrounds

1. Buy a rubber sound kit. Kits include the surrounds plus adhesive to secure the surround to the gasket.

2. Remove completely the old rubber surround from the metal portion of the speaker frame. Old silicone caulk can lift off quite easily. Use a knife or screwdriver to pry off stubborn shards.

3. Apply a light bead of adhesive to the cone perimeter, either in front or behind, and stick the new surround to the cone perimeter. Let the glue sit for three to five minutes until it's tacky. Press repeatedly around the cone to get a good bond.

4. Apply adhesive to the metal frame that's been cleaned, and affix the new rubber surround to the frame. Allow the glue to get tacky, letting it rest for three to five minutes, then repeatedly press down the surround to the frame to ensure a good bond.

5. Reconnect the wires to the speaker terminals, and reattach the loudspeaker to the cabinet.

Tips & Warnings

• Both of these repairs can make a "fried," poorly performing MTX speaker work like new again.

• Note which wire goes to which speaker terminal. Wires are often color coded in some way. The red terminal is always hot/positive.

References

• Parts-Express: SpeakerReplacement Guide
• Device Manuals: MTX Speaker Instruction Manual

Resources

• MTX: JackHammer 24-Inch Auto Subwoofer
• Speaker Repair: MTX 15-Inch Speakers Surrounds