need help, compasitor help Options

[Guenther13]

I have 1600 watts and everytime the base hits my indiglo gauges and headlights dim. I was told I need to get a compasitor but not sure which size. Do I go with 1 farad or do I go with 2 farads? Not sure what I need please help!!!!!!

[AudioFreak]

Do a search for capacitor and you will find some discussions about them. That being said I feel that capacitors don't fix the problem. The problem is that your alternator can't provide enough current to run your amps properly. A high output alternator a good battery and upgraded power and ground cables in the engine bay are actually going to fix the problem.

The reason people are so quick too say you need a capacitor is the fact they are cheap and they seem to fix the dimming light problem. I think the biggest problem is that most people don't understand how a capacitor acutally works. In the end the choice is yours.

To answer your question about size 1 farad per 1000 watts is the norm.

[polishchacha]

yeah, be carefull! Too many people try to draw too much from their altinator, and instead of addressing the issue the easy out is " buy a capasitor" which only makes the problem worse really in the long run, I saw a guy with a PHAT ash system and ended up having his whole engine bay go up in smoke along with half the front of the car, b/c he didn't take the proper percautions and steps to make his system capable of handleing such pwr. and heat dispertion. So unless you're willing to say bye bye to your wheels take audiofreaks advice!

[Guest_Matthew_*]

I would listen to Audio Freak he is one smart mofo.