Are you looking to get the most out of your car audio system? Well, then you need to know how to do this effectively: a Car Audio Capacitor Installation. When you are using large-type audio accessories, you must have the power to make it all work. An audio system can start to drain headlights if you do not have a capacitor to help things along the right way.
With the help of a power capacitor, you can add extra things to your vehicle that need that extra juice. Sure, a mechanic can install your capacitor, but what if I told you that you could do this all on your own. Read below to get the step-by-step guide to help you install your car audio capacitor. This way, you can enjoy tunes wherever you roam across the nation.
Car Audio Capacitor Installation: A Step by Step Guide
By using these steps, you will install your capacitor effectively and purposefully. This will give you the greatest chance of success for you and your ride. So, let us start by picking the right capacitor, shall we?
-
#1 – Picking The Right Capacitor
Before you install a capacitor, you got to buy one first. But, how should you make this important distinction? Let us start with how a capacitor works.
Capacitors are essentially a storage tanks for all power that is electric in your car. The power is measured in Farads. One Farad is equal to 1,000 Watts of power.
Next, you need to understand whether you need an internal meter or not. Some capacitors out on the market today have a LED meter and others do not. If you do want a capacitor with a meter, you will need to wire the product, so it turns off in your car. Why does it matter? If you do not, you will kill your vehicle’s battery.
Now that you have an idea of capacitors, it is time to go out and purchase the goods. Capacitors can range from as little as $30 up to over $200. This depends on the size and all the bells and whistles. Ultimately, you can get a Farad variety without a meter, and things will go smoothly with you.
-
#2 – Installation Time
To start, be certain that your capacitor is discharged altogether. When a capacitor is charged, it can release quick bursts of energy, and this could be very dangerous to you and your health. The rule of thumb is to be careful with electricity in general.
Next, take off the ground terminal to the battery. Your electrical system will be powerless, which is a great thing for you and your health. Additionally, if you already have a capacitor in your vehicle that you are replacing, discharge it from power as well. You know why at this point. If you do not want a shock, listen up!
-
#3 – Capacitor Mounting
There is a variety of places to mount a capacitor. However, you should certainly place your capacitor by an area in your vehicle that is struggling to get power, like your headlights or your audio system. Whatever you decide, the capacitor needs to be mounted one way or another.
Ultimately, since your capacitor is a storage tank, you just need to make sure it supplements power to other electrical systems in your vehicle. When you use it in this way, you will be pleasantly surprised by what it can do for your car.
-
#4 – Connecting The Positive Terminal
No matter where you connect the capacitor, you need to attach the positive terminal of your capacitor to an amp, battery, etc. to help with additional power. What gauge should you use? I am glad you asked. Eight gauge wiring is best in this situation.
-
#5 – Needing A Negative Terminal Connection
After you have completed the positive connection to your capacitor, you need to connect the negative terminal. This can be your ground. Then, you will have all your power rolling and ready to go.
-
#6 – More Connections
With most capacitors, you will receive a remote that needs to be connected during this process as well. Mainly, this happens when you have an internal meter with your capacitor. Power this section by wiring around the remote turn on the capacitor. The power source here is 12-volts, like an amplifier or an ignition switch to give you an idea.
-
#7 – The Reconnection
Now that everything is good to go with your capacitor, it is time for the reconnection of your battery. When you reconnect the battery, then all your components should be working in your vehicle. If you do not have power to this point, then there is a problem with your electrical connections.
Have you checked all the connections and they are good to go? Then, you may have an electrical wiring issue. You can certainly troubleshoot this problem, but a trained professional may be helpful here.
On the other hand, if your capacitor is working, then you have an added power source to help you on your way. Over time, your capacitor will wear down. All you will need to do is add a new fuse, and you will have sensational power again.
Bottom Line
Well, we have completed the installation process for a car audio capacitor. Remember that if you are still running into problems with power, you may want to check your alternator. It could be to blame. Also, when installing, wear safety protection, like goggles, and take off any jewelry. Lastly, never add a capacitor that is uncharged to your vehicle. Charge it first. This will save you a big, big headache.
If you follow these steps, you will have a successful installation. Then, you will be able to have power to all parts of your vehicle. Enjoying your music and riding around town will be all you will want to do day after day.