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Batteries, alternators, and wattage. How does it add up to power a system?

Discussion in 'Automotive Electrical' started by The_Burban, Jan 3, 2009.

  1. The_Burban

    The_Burban New Member

    Hello, so I am looking to upgrade my stereo and was wondering how it works for upgrading components as far as powering them. Currently I have a 1000 (rms)watt mono D amp, 160 Kinetik battery, stock alternator, and a yellow top. My lights still dim, but thats probably along with the other problems of my stereo since it isnt matched up quite right. I want to next go to a system that will have 3000 watts (rms) total, and then 500 rms for components. My question is that since there are so many ways to up power levels, is there a prefered way? Now considering that all other wires are maxxed out, big 3, etc, what would be a good or affordable way of upgrading the system? Is it best to have dual alternators and 400 amps or more? Or have a couple 2000 size kinetic batteries. Or just throw in some generic batteries. I was also wondering if it is best to have a cut-off for the regular battery namely in a two battery under the hood setup? I hope this makes a little sense. Let me know what you guys think. Thanks
     
    The_Burban, Jan 3, 2009
    #1
  2. Ranger SVO

    Ranger SVO Full Member

    I've never run dual alternators.

    Now lets see if we can fix the light dimming problem. The amp wants a lot of current and its taking to long to get there. So first, is the Kinetik battery mounted near the amp? If not it needs to be. Let make sure your alternator can charge the battery fast enough. Upgrade the wire that goes from the alternator output to the batt. In most cars this wire is 10ga or less. Lets get it to 8ga or more.

    Finally lets make sure the battery is grounded to the chassis with 4ga or better.
     
    Ranger SVO, Jan 3, 2009
    #2