I will go through the steps required to properly build an enclosure using simple tools. I will include a tool list, and a parts list. Also, I will explain advantages and disadvantages of differant methods I have seen used. Also, I will explain a few methods of bracing. I will not be able to cover all the steps and ideas involved in enclosure building, but I will do my best to cover the areas I know, and answer the questions brought forth by my friends at www.caraudiotalk.com , www.soundillusions.net , and www.caraudioforum.com .
First we will look at the items involved in building an enclosure properly. I will list my personal choice for the item list, and I will also reccomend some alternatives for those who don't want to go to all the expense.
Here is a quick pic of the items I will use in this box build. I forgot to add the compass to the picture. How else would I draw a circle. The list is below...
1] Circular saw
2] Jigsaw
3] Metal yardstick (used as a straight edge)
4] Rafter square (I can't tell you how important this $4 tool is)
5] 2 2"C clamps (I will use these to hold the straightedge)
6] A drill
7] Drill bits (you may use a countersink bit), and screwdriver bits
8] Sandpaper
9] 1 1/2"Drywall screws (really any screw, But I like the agressive bite of drywall)
10] Liquid Nails (you may use wood glue, the elmers I have pictured below)
11] Dap Quick Seal Plus, all purpose silicone. Any silicone will do that work with wood, but I have found this to be cheap and very effective)
12] caulking gun (both of the above products can be purchased in a squeeze tube, but I like the gun)
13] T nuts and hex head screws (you can use regular screws to mount the woofer if you prefer)
14] Screw drivers
15] 3/4 MDF wood (or 3/4 Birch)
16] Compass
Here are some close-ups of some of the items I suggest. I like to use T-nuts (above left) to hold the driver in place. While they are more difficult then screws, they make removal and replacement of the driver far easier. I like allen heads as they look clean and do not slip. Above right are my sealant choices. Both are available in squeeze tubes as well as caulk gun tubes. I used both entire tubes for this project. Elmers is my choice of wood glue. It is quite effective, and cheap.
Page descriptions
1) What do I need to build the enclosure?
2) How do I create a square edge and cut a straight line?
3) Let's discuss enclosure selection for your subwoofer.
4) A few tricks, drilling, and cutting holes.
5) the first enclosure, a slot port Brahma 12.
6)Complex tool dual sealed enclosure build.
7) Discussion, SPL and SQ deigns of ported and sealed boxes and subsonic filters.
8) My car and engine pics.
