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Grounding
Locate an area near the amplifier(s) that is metal and clean
an area about the size of a quarter to bare metal. Inspect the
area around and underneath to be sure you won't drill into wires,
brake or fuel lines, etc. Drill a pilot hole in the middle of this
area. Terminate the ground wire with a ring connector and attach
it to the bare metal using a #8 sheet metal screw and washer
or preferably, a bolt, nut and a star washer (not supplied). We
suggest crimping and soldering this connection. After the
connection is complete, coat the area (on both sides) with
silicone or some similar material to prevent rust from
developing on the bare metal.
If your grand total current draw is over 50 amps (or total output
power is over 300 watts), you should run a ground wire beside
your power wire from the battery to the amplifier(s) in addition
to your regular ground wire. Keep the ground and power wires
as close together as possible, and use the same gauge wire
for both. This will ensure that you have a good ground path,
and may eliminate such potential problems as engine noise
and overheated amplifiers.
Charging System Considerations
If your grand total current draw is over 100 amps (or total output
power is over 600 watts), you are probably exceeding the
capability of your charging system. Dimming lights and
fluctuating voltage are solid indicators that you need to upgrade
your alternator, battery (or go to multiple batteries), or both.
Keep in mind that your amplifiers simply convert electrical
energy to acoustical energy, and any electrical deficiency will
compromise the performance of your sound system.
For more information about charging system upgrades, see
your local authorized
PrecisionPower Dealer or call the
PrecisionPower technical support office at 1-800-62POWER.
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POWER / GROUND
