Sub hits - Lights dim.. suggestions?
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 111
Likes: 0
From: Stafford TX
Sub hits - Lights dim.. suggestions?
Hey everyone,
I have the following amp (kenwood 4x ~250w)...
http://www.crutchfield.com/S-SqT2T2T...0&I=113KAC8402
that is bridged (180w RWS) to this sub (10" RF P3)...
http://www.crutchfield.com/S-SqT2T2T...20&I=575P310D2
and when a strong bass song is on and it is cranked up a bit my interior, instrument panel, headlights, etc all dim. I checked the voltage on the instrument panel and it drops from 13.8V to ~12.1-11.8.
So, any suggestions? You think a capacitor would help out this situation? I really hope my Alternator is not giving out....
Thanks everyone...
I have the following amp (kenwood 4x ~250w)...
http://www.crutchfield.com/S-SqT2T2T...0&I=113KAC8402
that is bridged (180w RWS) to this sub (10" RF P3)...
http://www.crutchfield.com/S-SqT2T2T...20&I=575P310D2
and when a strong bass song is on and it is cranked up a bit my interior, instrument panel, headlights, etc all dim. I checked the voltage on the instrument panel and it drops from 13.8V to ~12.1-11.8.
So, any suggestions? You think a capacitor would help out this situation? I really hope my Alternator is not giving out....
Thanks everyone...
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 111
Likes: 0
From: Stafford TX
I think I'm running 8 gauge. But I have always ran 8 gauge with this amp in the previous 2 cars I had and never had this problem. I'm not sure why the 3 posts so far lean towards that. Sorry not trying to flame anyone for helping me... I just don't understand what the wire has to do with it.
Thanks everyone
Thanks everyone
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 5,572
Likes: 4
From: Los Angeles Ca
the thinner wire you have, the more resistance you are putting into the system. if there is more resistance you need more current to attain the same amprage. (or was it vise versa) well anyways...you need at least 4 gauge and then your problems will be solved, i speak from experience. a cap is just a band aid while the wiring will releave your electrical system from a lot of stress.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 7,201
Likes: 0
From: DP(oh you know where) IL
St. Jude Donor '06
its just that the wire gauge has been a big culprit in dim lights and what not. Im running a 4 gauge and im not seeing any problems. Also look into upgrading the big 3. I havent done this yet, im still debating whether to go ahead and do this. hopefully someone else can chime in...ttt for you
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 5,572
Likes: 4
From: Los Angeles Ca
Originally Posted by DPG
its just that the wire gauge has been a big culprit in dim lights and what not. Im running a 4 gauge and im not seeing any problems. Also look into upgrading the big 3. I havent done this yet, im still debating whether to go ahead and do this. hopefully someone else can chime in...ttt for you
make more sense now?
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Le Mans Master
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 7,201
Likes: 0
From: DP(oh you know where) IL
St. Jude Donor '06
wait if you drink too much wont that be bad...you'll get drunker faster...or maybe thats better... 
you make a good point though. one of the first things these guys recommended when i asked about subs and amp is to get at least 4 gauge wire.....dont have any problems here and these guys were great helping me out
you make a good point though. one of the first things these guys recommended when i asked about subs and amp is to get at least 4 gauge wire.....dont have any problems here and these guys were great helping me out
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 111
Likes: 0
From: Stafford TX
Ok, I'll switch out the 8 guage to 4 guage. Hope this works thought cause I have never run 4 gauge before with this amp and never had this problem...
thanks everyone. I'll let everyone know how it goes.
thanks everyone. I'll let everyone know how it goes.
Race Director
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 14,137
Likes: 2,985
From: Iowa
St. Jude Donor '03 thru '26
I'm not sure what altenator size you have in a C4 but I'm sure it can handle a 180 watt rms load. I know the altenator is bigger than what you had in the Eclipse (I own two Talon TsiAWDs) Also, 8-guage should handle 180 watts rms.
But, 4-guage sure isn't going to hurt anything (except your wallet a tad) and it probably will help. Do the "Big 3" too.
I would also go to your local Autozone or Advance Auto. They will test your altenator and battery for FREE. Either one of those could be going downhill.
P.S. Is it true you are sending us all beer with straws?
But, 4-guage sure isn't going to hurt anything (except your wallet a tad) and it probably will help. Do the "Big 3" too.
I would also go to your local Autozone or Advance Auto. They will test your altenator and battery for FREE. Either one of those could be going downhill.
P.S. Is it true you are sending us all beer with straws?
