Introduction
Harley-Davidson’s Stage II Boom Audio system is a high-performance audio solution designed for 2014 and later model years of motorcycles such as the Street Glide and Road Glide. These systems offer significant improvements in sound quality and system integration over the factory standard or Stage I configurations. However, installing a Stage II system requires careful planning and execution, including the use of specialized tools, firmware updates, and compatibility checks with the vehicle’s onboard systems.
This guide compiles verified information from manufacturer documentation, installation guides, and technical manuals to provide a step-by-step overview of the installation process, key considerations for compatibility, and essential warnings regarding system operation. The information is sourced directly from official and verified installation guides, firmware notes, and service instructions.
Pre-Installation Considerations
Compatibility with Vehicle Models
The Stage II Boom Audio system is designed for specific 2014 and later Harley-Davidson motorcycles. According to the provided documentation, it is not compatible with 2005 or earlier audio systems. Use of the Stage II speakers on these older systems may cause permanent damage. Users should consult the Parts and Accessories section of the Harley-Davidson website or a certified dealer to confirm compatibility with their specific vehicle model.
Required Firmware and Software Updates
Several installation guides emphasize the importance of updating the radio’s equalizer (EQ) firmware before operating the audio system. This step is critical to prevent speaker damage. The process involves locating the BIN code in the factory-installed GT or GTS radio and applying the appropriate firmware update. This update must be performed by a Harley-Davidson dealer, as attempting to operate the system without it can result in immediate and irreversible damage.
Tools and Materials
Installation requires the following tools and materials:
- Panel removal tool
- T20, T25, T27 Torx bits
- 5/32, 3/16, and 1/8 inch hex bits
- Ratchet wrench
- Fender cover for protecting painted surfaces
- Relay kit (Part No. 69200397)
- Electrical hardware pack including in-line fuse holder and sealed splice connectors
- Battery terminal corrosion retardant or petroleum jelly
Safety Precautions
Before beginning the installation, users should:
- Remove the main fuse to prevent accidental activation of the electrical system.
- Disconnect the battery, beginning with the negative terminal to avoid short circuits.
- Ensure the ignition is off before reconnecting the battery to prevent damage to the audio system.
- Apply a light coat of corrosion retardant to battery terminals before reconnection.
Step-by-Step Installation Process
Disassembly of the Outer Fairing
The installation process begins with the removal of the outer fairing, which houses the factory audio components. Steps include:
- Remove the four T27 Torx bolts securing the fairing, with two located on each side. The shorter bolt is positioned lower, while the longer bolt is at the top.
- Place a fender cover over the front fender to protect the painted surface.
- Remove the three T27 Torx bolts from the top of the fairing, leaving the central bolt in place to support the fairing during partial removal.
- Remove the windshield by taking out the four 1/8 inch bolts securing it to the outer fairing.
- Remove the fairing vent by pulling it straight up to release the retaining clips.
- Disconnect any wiring harnesses connected to the outer fairing.
- Carefully remove the outer fairing without fully detaching the central bolt until the headlight and wiring are disconnected.
Accessing and Updating the Radio Firmware
Before proceeding with the physical installation of the audio components, it is essential to locate the BIN code and update the EQ firmware in the factory radio. The process differs slightly depending on whether the bike has a GT or GTS radio.
For GT Radios:
- Power on the bike to accessory mode.
- When the "Warning" screen appears, press and hold the mute and power button (lower right-hand corner of the screen) for approximately five seconds.
- The service menu will appear. Navigate to Audio > EQ > i (information).
- Note the current EQ version, such as 17_OFF.bin, and follow the manufacturer's instructions to load the appropriate BIN code into the new Diamond Audio or Soundstream radio.
For GTS Radios:
- Hold the power/mute button while turning the ignition on.
- Continue holding the button for approximately ten seconds until the head unit powers up into the service menu.
- Release the button, then navigate to Audio > EQ > i (information).
- The current BIN version will be displayed, such as 178_OFF.bin. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to load the corresponding BIN code.
Installing the Amplifier and Speaker Harness
The installation of the amplifier and speaker harness is a critical step that requires attention to wiring and routing to avoid electrical issues.
- Remove the weather cap from the 3-way connector and connect the components together.
- Route the speaker and amplifier harness to the area under the seat.
- Select the in-line fuse holder and one blue sealed splice connector from the hardware pack.
- Install the relay kit (Part No. 69200397) separately. Refer to the instructions for relay installation.
- Position the relay under the seat, ensuring the terminals face down or horizontally to prevent accidental contact.
- Cut the orange/white wire in the main electrical harness near the rear lighting connector and use a radiant-heating device to splice and seal the cut wires to the sealed splice connector.
- Cut the red and orange/white wires in the speaker and amplifier harness to suitable lengths and connect them to the relay’s sealed splice connectors.
Final Assembly and Testing
After the amplifier and speaker components are installed, the final steps involve reassembling the motorcycle and ensuring proper operation of the audio system.
- Reinstall the ECM caddy per the service manual.
- Install the gas tank and reattach the seat and fairing.
- Install the main fuse and reconnect the battery cables, beginning with the positive (red) terminal.
- Apply a light coat of corrosion retardant to the battery terminals.
- Before powering on the system, ensure the radio firmware update has been completed by a Harley-Davidson dealer.
- Do not power on the radio or operate the audio system until the firmware is updated to avoid damage to the speakers.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Speaker Damage
Several sources emphasize that operating the audio system without the required firmware update can cause immediate and permanent damage to the speakers. This issue is highlighted in both user accounts and technical manuals. Users who skipped the firmware update step reported irreparable damage to their audio components, necessitating replacement and additional labor costs.
Battery and Electrical Concerns
Proper battery handling is essential during installation. Disconnecting and reconnecting the battery must be done in the correct order (negative first, then positive), and users should apply a corrosion-resistant coating to the terminals. Failure to do so can result in short circuits or poor electrical connections.
Saddlebag Modifications
Stage II systems often require modifications to the saddlebags to accommodate the new speakers and amplifiers. These modifications can involve cutting or reshaping parts of the saddlebags, which must be done carefully to maintain structural integrity and aesthetics.
User Experience and Performance
A user who completed a Stage II upgrade on a 2019 Street Glide reported high satisfaction with the system’s performance. The audio system performed well under various weather conditions, including extreme heat and cold. The user noted that while the system offered excellent clarity and volume, the bass response could be improved. The installation was completed with the assistance of a dealer for the firmware update, and the user praised the dealer’s technical knowledge and efficiency.
Conclusion
The installation of a Harley-Davidson Stage II Boom Audio system requires a combination of technical skill, adherence to manufacturer guidelines, and attention to detail. The process involves disassembling the outer fairing, updating the radio firmware, routing and connecting the amplifier and speaker harness, and reassembling the motorcycle. Key considerations include compatibility with the vehicle model, proper handling of the battery, and the use of a dealer to perform the firmware update.
Users should carefully follow the provided installation instructions and consult official documentation or a certified dealer if any steps are unclear. The system offers a significant improvement in audio quality and performance but requires a careful and methodical installation to avoid damage and ensure optimal operation.