Grounding Question for a Sub/Amp
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Joined: Sep 2016
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From: Michigan
Grounding Question for a Sub/Amp
Hi Folks,
Trying to solve a self-induced concern about proper grounding.
I'm installing a compact powered sub-woofer (Rockford-Fosgate PS8) in my '69. Intent is to soft-mount it in the rear compartment (likely Velcro to the carpet of the rear wall). It's about the size of a 3" thick laptop.
Since the battery is in the rear, the power supply is easy - direct to the battery (bought a new post clamp with supplemental lead accommodations), using a fused line to the Sub.
Question is concerning the ground. Is it really necessary to run the Sub's ground line to a frame-grounded screw location?
Or can I just run the ground directly to the NEG post of the battery, using a similar post clamp as the POS side, with the supplemental lead accommodation?
Since the main battery ground cable goes directly to the frame, likely to the same ground screw I COULD run the Sub's ground line to......How is that any different than grounding directly to the NEG post clamp of the battery?
The battery is so close to my mounting location, it would make things so much easier.
I rigged it that way temporarily, and it works fine.
I'm just having some nagging nightmares that involve sparks, smoke, and flames emanating from my garage!!
Trying to solve a self-induced concern about proper grounding.
I'm installing a compact powered sub-woofer (Rockford-Fosgate PS8) in my '69. Intent is to soft-mount it in the rear compartment (likely Velcro to the carpet of the rear wall). It's about the size of a 3" thick laptop.
Since the battery is in the rear, the power supply is easy - direct to the battery (bought a new post clamp with supplemental lead accommodations), using a fused line to the Sub.
Question is concerning the ground. Is it really necessary to run the Sub's ground line to a frame-grounded screw location?
Or can I just run the ground directly to the NEG post of the battery, using a similar post clamp as the POS side, with the supplemental lead accommodation?
Since the main battery ground cable goes directly to the frame, likely to the same ground screw I COULD run the Sub's ground line to......How is that any different than grounding directly to the NEG post clamp of the battery?
The battery is so close to my mounting location, it would make things so much easier.
I rigged it that way temporarily, and it works fine.
I'm just having some nagging nightmares that involve sparks, smoke, and flames emanating from my garage!!
Last edited by Bergerboy; Dec 12, 2016 at 08:24 AM.
Team Owner
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 37,637
Likes: 3,118
From: Crossville TN
Going to the battery directly with ground line is optimal (just like for positive line), but connecting to same lug as battery ground to frame is nearly as good--as long as the battery ground cable and connections are solid. Take the route that works best for your installation.
