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Silver Member Username: MgbcsLincoln, Nebraska Post Number: 236 Registered: Dec-06 | OK...theoretical question-sort of. I am getting a Jeep Grand Cherokee this summer and I plan on running a KX1200.1 and some sort of 4-channel for the components. Question is, would I be fine with just a H.O. alternator, and Kintek HC1800 up front, or would I need to get a battery in back too? Also, there is a possibility that I would run two KX1200.1 or a ZX2500.1, therefore making it a certainty that I would need a second battery. If this is the case, how do I wire it up? I know I would have a HC1800 up front and a HC2400 in back, but what is the wiring process, what else do I need to buy? Thanks! |
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Gold Member Username: CarguyPost Number: 5850 Registered: Nov-04 | You're basically asking the same question as this thread: https://www.ecoustics.com/electronics/forum/car-audio/314265.html You don't have much room in a Cherokee to start with, so unless you're into SPL, one amp should be enough. You shouldn't need to add 2nd battery unless you plan on listening with engine off. As I stated in the other thread, if safety is an issue, then add 2nd yellowtop battery in whatever location you have with an isolator. That way, you will always be able to start your car. |
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Silver Member Username: MgbcsLincoln, Nebraska Post Number: 240 Registered: Dec-06 | OK thanks. I am always in the city or near the city, so I wouldn't be too worried even if my battery was drained (plus I won't listen to it with my car off). |
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Silver Member Username: MgbcsLincoln, Nebraska Post Number: 241 Registered: Dec-06 | However, if I ran 2 15" Qs with a KX2500.1, I would need another battery wouldn't I? I thought there was some rule of adding a battery every 1000 RMS after the first 1000, or something like that? Or is that only neccesary when listening without the car on? Thanks. |
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Gold Member Username: CarguyPost Number: 5851 Registered: Nov-04 | There is no rule of thumb. If your alternator can handle it, then you're fine. If not, the amp will draw power from the battery. That's the situation you want to avoid (meaning you're pushing the alternator too much). |
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Silver Member Username: MgbcsLincoln, Nebraska Post Number: 245 Registered: Dec-06 | OK...well I am going to try to do a 240 amp alternator, so I am guessing I'll be fine. And the way to know if you need another battery is if the lights are dimming after the HO alternator is put in? |
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Gold Member Username: CarguyPost Number: 5853 Registered: Nov-04 | Even with HO alternator the lights will still dim, but not as much. Lights are sensitive to voltage fluctuation. At normal driving condition, the voltage reading will be around 14.2 - 14.8v. At high current draw by the amp, it might drop to 13.5v. This will cause the headlights to dim. As long as the voltage stays above 12.5v, then you're fine. If it drops below that, it means the battery will be supplying the power. For a short period of time, it's okay, but not for long prolonged use. Don't forget to do the "big 3" upgrade. If not, you won't be maximizing the HO alternator. If you don't know what that is, do a search on this forum. |
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Silver Member Username: MgbcsLincoln, Nebraska Post Number: 253 Registered: Dec-06 | Yep...I've heard all about it. That's the first thing I will do, but I need to actually get the car first so I know how much 1/0 gauge to get. I saw a kit to do one for $50 with all the 1/0 wire and ring terminals...good deal or just pick out my own stuff from knukonceptz? Anyway, one more question. What tool do I need to pick up to read the the voltage and where would I probe to check it out? Thanks! |
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Gold Member Username: CarguyPost Number: 5854 Registered: Nov-04 | $50 isn't that bad. If you had to buy it individually, it'll be a bit less. It's up to you. You can buy a DMM from just about any electronics store, including mass chains such as Walmart/Circuit City/Home Depot and eBay of course. If you plan on working with electronics for a long time, then invest on a good unit. Don't go cheap. A DMM with RMS will cost $50 - $80. It's well worth it. You can measure voltage just about anywhere it has power, battery posts, amp's input terminals, alternator etc. You also use DMM to check for short or cuts. Very handy tool to own. |