Amplifier install

[RobP]

I'm installing a new sound system and am wondering if I can connect the amp's 4 gauge power wire to the starter instead of the battery to keep it looking clean? I've installed other systems and have always connected the power directly to the battery.
Has anyone done this?

 

[Phillipkj4]

What Gauge wire is coming from the battery to the alternator? You can hook into power there but it becomes only as large as the feed, same with battery ground.

 

[Darthomas]

When you release the key, starting the engine, the heavy current stops, and there is a huge inductive voltage spike.
Huge inductive spikes destroy semiconductor junctions.
This is why factory car radios are not energized during cranking.

The car manufacturers had to warranty a LOT of car radios in the early 60s before they figured that out. Tube radios were fine with the inductive spike.

So, with that info, yes, you could do that.
BUT, you had better install a relay somewhere in-line to the amp, that does not power up until you release the key from starting.

 

[Phillipkj4]

When you release the key, starting the engine, the heavy current stops, and there is a huge inductive voltage spike.
Huge inductive spikes destroy semiconductor junctions.
This is why factory car radios are not energized during cranking.

The car manufacturers had to warranty a LOT of car radios in the early 60s before they figured that out. Tube radios were fine with the inductive spike.

So, with that info, yes, you could do that.
BUT, you had better install a relay somewhere in-line to the amp, that does not power up until you release the key from starting.

Amplifier will not power up until radio comes on, it should be wired to the radio turn on wire which is not active unless the radio is on, so he should be fine there. I personally would not put 4g on anything other than the battery terminal myself though.

 

[RobP]

Thanks for the input, looks like I'll wire it directly to the battery. Better safe than sorry!