MHarrisEP

I just got a new system. It's 2 Alpine Type R 12's and an Interfire 2200w amp.

When my bass hits, my lights dim (as expected, I know that much). At one point my entire car went dark and my guages dropped to 0, but I quickly flipped the switch I have wired into my remote wire and shut my system off, and everything came back on.

As far as that goes, would doing the big 3 upgrade do the trick? Or do I need an additional battery or upgraded alternator? I drive a 96 Accord EX, I'm not sure the specs on the alternator.

Also, I can play the system for short periods of time no problem, but recently the in-line fuse on my power cable has been blowing if I use the system for too long, rather than the battery dying. It's a 60 amp maxi fuse. Why would this be happening?

lpchouinard

You should use a fuse that is rated at a minimum of the fuse on the amp.

If your amp have 3x30 amp fuses then you should put a 100A fuse.

Now if you purchase a kit that came with the 60A fuse you will also probably need to upgrade the power wire for a bigger gauge.

What wire size do you currently have for the power?

MHarrisEP

Okay, I'll check the fuses on the amp.

My power is 4 I believe, and my ground is 8, if that makes any difference. But, I don't have any more 4 guage to use as ground at the moment.

*edit*
You were right, it's 3x30. So, I need a 100 amp fuse? Do they have those in stores? I think 60 was the biggest I could find at my local Napa.

lpchouinard

ok before upgrading to a 100A fuse upgrade your ground to 4 also. So while at napa ask the for some 4awg power wire.

MHarrisEP

*edit*

Okay, nevermind. Looking around online I see there are 100A maxi fuses. They weren't in the catalog at the store and the guy had never heard of them being that large, so I was under the impression they didn't exist.

Other than the fuse problem, what would you suggest as far as the battery issue? Would a big 3 upgrade be good enough? Or will I need another battery/alternator?

MHarrisEP

Nevermind again, haha. Just found a small audio shop that carries them. I'm going to get the fuse now.

Lyle's GTP

They actually make Maxi Fuses up to 120Amp. I have some that size, but as you know they typically max out at 80Amps.

Also, if you're curious you can also get ATC fuses up to 40 amps as well. If your ever looking to "open up" the current path to your amp to push it a little harder.

Lyle