Hey guys,

The Problem: My headlights go dim and then back to being bright when I am playing my stereo system.

Solution: Buying a capacitor?

I just ordered my IPF Headlight's from Dave at NorthRidge, and I want them to stay consistent with my tunes or whatever else.

I have an L7 10" Sub woofer - http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_...+08S10L72.html

1000 Watt Alpine Amplifier. http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_...MRP-M1000.html

Where, What, and How: Which capacitor is recommended for my system? And how do I install it?

To elaborate, do I go from my Stock Head Unit to my Amplifier, then my amplifier through my Capacitor, then from there to my sub woofer?

Thanks in advance,

Pluke -

 

A capacitor generally goes in line on the power (hot) wire of the component that's drawing the most power. This is usually your bass amplifier.

Check my edit below: https://www.jk-forum.com/forums/show...=1#post1680535

 

Ditto. Look for a 1 farad or 1.2 farad cap. If you want the voltmeter or indicator lights, that is your decision. It is about 3" diameter and 10" long.

As stated it goes on the power feed as close to the amp as possible. Follow the instructions to install it and charge it. If you are unsure about any part of the instructions, DO NOT START. They contain a liquid/gel that will make a big mess. They are sealed so you can mount it in any direction. If you mess up charging it, it will rupture.

Your headlights are dimming because the amp is drawing more power than the battery can supply at that moment. Think of the capacitor as a reservoir on the power line. When the amp draws a surge of power, the capacitor provides that surge to the amp and maintains a constant strain on the battery. The battery isn't subjected to big, sudden electrical demands.

 

Thanks for the replies. Now, I took my car to the audio place and the guy that owns the shop said I need a morenpowerful battery. Isn't that just a load of bs? He told me that the battery will cost around 250$$

Anyone care to pitch in? It's a 2010 jk, so I would assume this car shop just wants to sell me crap. Anyone else have a system or had a system with this issue.

I realy think all I need is a cap, but the audio place said no that would be a waste...

 

NO!!!!

It is not BS it is true. If you buy a better battery it will stop you headlight problem. If he is trying to sell you a kenetic or a stinger battery then is is good stuff and I would highly recommend you do it.

You can fix your problem with a cap if you want but buying the better battery will look better and be more usefull to you as a jeep owner in the long run.

It is the same as running dual batteries on your jeep. more batterys=more power for lights winches and other toys well you can just get a bigger better battery which would do the same thing.

At Mobile toys in College station where I work we don't do caps we only put bigger or extra batteries in cars.

 

WOAH!

Sorry, I had to double check what I said earlier, and PowderMonkey is right. See this diagram:

 

Sweet. Thanks for all the input!

I hope someone else had this issue and the solution find within this thread.
Pluke.

 

Just a quick comment about the Cap solving the light dimming issue.

After experimenting with Caps a little in different sizes, they no doubt make a difference with how hard the bass hits and they do DIMINISH the headlight fade issue but, as the Cap recharges itself very rapidly, there is still a potential for a voltage drop in the other vehicle electrical systems. The bigger battery or multiple batter is the only way to ensure enough power.

Cap's for feeding a hungry amp = Better sound
Cap's for fixing headlight fade = Bandaid
Bigger or Extra Batteries for feeding a hungry amp = Better Sound
Bigger or Extra Batteries for fixing headlight fade = Problem Solved