[1978 T/A]

I noticed on the 69 GTO there is a bracing that runs over the speaker openings. I realized this is how it was done from the factory but it seems like this would distort/muffle the sound coming from the speaker.

I plan to mount 6×9 speakers under the tray in the factor manner and I am considering cutting the bracing away. Any downside to doing this or have any of other guys done this?

[Ben M.]

I've hooked up 6x9 speakers in uncut package trays and ones that have been hacked up with all sorts of metal and braces removed. I've not noticed any major differences in sound with quality speakers, wires, and head unit. I would say there is no reason to hack up your package tray.

[1978 T/A]

Thanks, that's exactly what I wanted to hear. I wasn't crazy about the idea of cutting the structure of the rear deck. I plan to eventually add shoulder belts in the rear so I didn't want to compromise the integrity of the package tray.

[GRX]

In years passed I have cut the braces in my LeMans when mid & tweeters in the 6x9 sat up above the outer surround surface. Only way to get them to mount flat without building a spacer. In my GTO I will not cut them.

[north]

My 69 Firebird convertible had an 8 track so it had factory rear speakers. The original top well liner was still present. When I removed the speaker grilles down in the well I was surprised to see that the assembly line workers had not bothered to cut away the vinyl before installing the grilles. No wonder they sounded a bit muffled!