Alternator enough?

[mathteacher'04vibe]

After installing a sweet deck w/subwoofer controls, I think we all know what's next on the list (after I get a carpet for the rear, groceries are sliding everywhere8{).So my question is, does the factory alternator provide enough power for the electrical system with subs & an amp installed? I know everything will run, I just don't want to have to replace an alternator every 6 mos. Is a capacitor necessary?I am planning on going with about 400w amp and a really good dvc 10", or two lesser quality 10s.Thanks in advance for the help.

[KaosStarr]

I really doubt you will need to worry about the alt.Thats my setup power wise minus the M&T amp and I have a stock battery and alt still from when I got the car 2 years ago.Kinda cool to see there's another gen vibe person from my general area of Ohio.

[mathteacher'04vibe]

Thanks for the info, KaoStarr. Do you have a charging wire going to the 2nd battery?BTW, yes Newton Falls is close to Warren. You will probably see (or hear) me cruising around at some point in the future.

[KaosStarr]

Yes, I just ran the power wire to the back since I went such a big system, i ran an 0g wire and just threw a battery on it, instead of a capasitor.

[Celtic_Curse]

I might have to do that too...everytime I turn up my stereo you can see the lights dim to the beat of the bass.

[CAN-AWD-VIBE]

a cap will do ita lot less dimming, if any

[KaosStarr]

I think my lights almost go out, within 20m i can kick the battery light on. But I think I need to replace my stock battery, its still the original, and I want another deep cycle under the hood

[mathteacher'04vibe]

So I went with a Scosche kit that came w/a 500k capacitor. 325 watt Fosgate mono amp and no light dimmage. I do have two questions though.1. Will the little light on the capacitor wear down my battery? I know a cap holds a charge, but I have some doubts.2. When installing the main power wire, I had a heck of a time loosening the 90 degree bolt on the terminal and ended up accidentally twisting the lead battery post inside the battery8^{ I know this is not good, but the car starts fine. Should I replace the battery asap?

[scherry2]

Quote, originally posted by mathteacher’04vibe »1. Will the little light on the capacitor wear down my battery? I know a cap holds a charge, but I have some doubts.it shouldn't Quote, originally posted by mathteacher’04vibe »2. When installing the main power wire, I had a heck of a time loosening the 90 degree bolt on the terminal and ended up accidentally twisting the lead battery post inside the battery8^{ I know this is not good, but the car starts fine. Should I replace the battery asap?yes. asap

[mathteacher'04vibe]

replaced battery. Safe for now...