Instructions on hooking up a second amp ?

Question

So I've got a 4 gauge wire with a 100 watt fuse running to my 1200 watt amp (200 x2 rms) powering my subs and I want to run it through a 2 Frad Capacitor and then through a distribution block and run part of the split to a new 300 x4 peak (200 x4 rms) 4 channel amp via an 8 gauge wire. now my question is basic. WHAT do I need to do to make this possible? Do i need a fuse larger then 100 watt ? Do i need to ground the capacitor, and the amp? if you can help PLEASE let me know EVERY detail because this is my first system and Im learning as i go, sort of a personal project. THANK YOU !

Answer 1

Best Answer - Chosen by Voters

First, if you want to hook up your cap do it after the distribution block. Wire it inline with the power cord between the dblock and the sub amp. You will not need it for a 4 channel amp.

This link will show you how you should wire your system.
http://akamaipix.crutchfield.com/ca/lear…

If you have any questions about this diagram just ask.

Good Luck!!!

Edit: Jim, your instructions are not quite in the correct order.

You need to put the fuse in BEFORE you charge the cap. You wouldn't be able to charge the cap if the fuse is not in.

Note, a cap should be put as close to the amp as possible.

Source(s):

http://www.MDCustomz.com

Answer 2

You definately have to ground the capacitor AND the amps, that's for sure. If possible, ground them to different spots, not the same one. Connect the power wire from the battery to the capacitor. Then, the power wire coming from the capacitor, should be going to the input of the distibution block. On the output of the block, connect your 8 gauge power wire and the power wire for the other amp. Then just hookup the power and grounds to each amp. You'll also need to charge the capacitor before use, or you could mess it up. Here's what you do...
1)Remove the fuse at the battery.

2)Connect the ground from the chassis to the cap then to the amp.

3)Connect the the power wire (from fuse by the battery) to the cap then to the amp.

4)To charge the cap, get a 12v light bulb with leads. Temporarily connect the power wire from the battery to one side of the bulb (at the fuse) and connect the other side of the bulb to the wire going to the cap. The bulb will light and over a period of time (10-20 seconds) it will get dimmer. When the bulb goes out, the cap is charged. Basically, your going to put the light bulb where the fuse was.

5)Now you can re-install the fuse.

That should get you going!

Source(s):

I work at Best Buy in the Car-Fi Department... and installed my own system. 2- 12" Alpine Type-S subs, Power Acoustic 2-Farad Capacitor, and Alpine MRP-M850 amp.
B-E-A-UTIFUL!