Alternators!!!

Does anyone know of an alternator upgrade for 96 Cams??? I have a DX, but everything is power. I have one amp installed right now (less than 200 watts), but I plan on upgrading that one (300-450) and adding a second one (150-200) and want to make sure the alternator can handle the load. I know that the formula calls for an upgraded alternator and/or second battery set up for every 600 watts of power. Any suggestions?

Thanks for the good words. I won't be running as much as you...I'm not looking at getting into any SPL competitions. LOL I do plan on putting in a 1/2 farad cap for my sub amp just to play it safe. Where can I get one of thos gizmos for that plugs into the cigarette lighter? Sounds like you need to post your system on www.sounddomain.com. I went on there and got some very nice ideas of how I want to put my system in. Anyway, thanks again for the assistance.<br><br>Mike

Yeah, I'm not too sure where to get one of these gizmos, Radio Shack or a parts store would be my best guess. I believe these things are made with some sensing diodes connected to three LED lights, but I'm not too sure. By the way, I won't post my system on a website, because I do have the SPL, but it doesnt look too professional! LOL I'm just in it for the sound!!<br>Good Luck Mike,<br>Chris

Aiight! I'll keep an eye out for one of those. Do you at least have a brand name or something?<br><br>As far as posting your system. Not all the systems on there are professionally done or look totally sharp. There are those like you that are just in it for sound. Either way, you should check it out...GREAT ideas broken down by car. Like I said...I got some great ideas from this with Camries as well as those with some other rides too. <br><br>My system won't be a roof rocker, but I do plan on showing the install. Never know...could get some good suggestions for upgrades.<br><br>Mike

Hey agbass2002<br>do you have any problems with your lights fading on high voltage drawing bass. I have a full fosgate system and have to turn my bass way down at night because my lights flash like crazy. I have a 98 LE with everything power so I imagine the situation is sort of the same because I have been getting the same responses about no better alternators etc. The main reason I ask is because I am wanting to get the optima yellow top because I have no other alternatives and am sick of the light fade. Was the optima yellow top worth it?

Hey Ryan....a yellow top would help out alot....however...a much cost-effective way to solve the lights-fading problem is to use a capacitor. Im not sure how much power you are pumping out. I'm using a 1/2 farad Lightening Audio Cap to run about 700 watts (2 amps). However, tomorrow I will be purchasing a better second sub (a JL W3) and a much better 2nd amp to push it (Autotek 500.2)....for a car audio show on Sat. I will need to upgrade to a 1 farad cap...since I will be pushing about 1000 watts. Now...if I add my high-end amp (a rockford fosgate)....I will definately add a yellow-top....well maybe try a Cap....and then go for a yellow top. Hope that helps

Ryan, <br>as tmanana said, a more cost effecive solution would be to purchase a capacitor. I would buy a 1 farad cap b\c I haven't seen your setup, and more is better than less in this situation (and dont pay more than $100 for a 1 farad cap of good quality, such as Lightning audio or a Rockford cap). It took 2 1 farad caps for me to get my lights to stop fading, and I am pulling a lot of amps. As for the optima, i found a friend that could get me one for $140 at a boat superstore with his discount, so look around for a good deal if you decide to go that route.<br>Chris

I may just try that capacitor first but I have always heard that capacitors generally don't help. I am running a rockford fosgate 400.4 with 4 fosgate HE 10's but I normally only use 2 of them for everyday use and all 4 for shows and showing off lol. I also have the fosgate amp wiring kit so I know my wires are adequate. I also noticed on my car and forgot to mention that sometimes when I even use my power windows at night my lights will dim somewhat. I don't know but pretty sure this may be a good sign that the battery is weakening. But like I said even with just the two subs and the amp bridged down--any decent ear pleasing amount of bass for me makes the lights go nuts.

I DON"T have a system in my Corolla but it's lights dim when I use the power windows, is that a sign of a weak battery?