Can a 2g alternator handle two amps?

clean2g · 04-20-2005

I have a 97 GSX and I'm trying to add a sub to my system. I've already added an aftermarket head unit and the interior speakers are still using the factory amp. I was wondering if there is going to be power issues with the alternator and battery if I add a "1000" watt amp (It's not a true 1000 watt amp.. probably actually only 400 watts). Anyone know what the power rating is on the stock alternator for the 2g's? If you have any suggestions I'd love to hear them, thanks.

A//// Guy · 04-20-2005

Ive been running 2 amps for ever since I bought my car. They put out about 600 watts total and the lights do not dim or anything. Im also running 90 watt headlights, those do bring down my idle a tad when they turn on

You shouldnt have a problem.

Alpine TSi · 04-20-2005

I have the stock 75 amp alternator in my 1G and run a 800 watt RMS sub amp and a 200 watt RMS amp for my speakers and haven't had any problems. I also have a deep cycle battery though. But just don't pound on your system while it is idling, that is a huge draw on your alternator.

An easy way to determine if your alternator is safe is to add up your total amperage draw, if it exceeds 120% of your alternators output rating, you need a bigger alternator.

clean2g · 04-20-2005

cool, thanks guys!

LightningGSX · 05-04-2005

Quote:

Originally Posted by Alpine TSi

An easy way to determine if your alternator is safe is to add up your total amperage draw, if it exceeds 120% of your alternators output rating, you need a bigger alternator.

Amp draw = watts / voltage.So, for example, 800 watt amp / 13.8 = 58 amps.And, unless you drive around at full volume with the amps' gain/sensitivity all the way up, take about 50%-75% of that, and you'll have somewhere in the ballpark of your average current draw.

Alpine TSi · 05-04-2005

Quote:

Originally Posted by LightningGSX

Amp draw = watts / voltage.So, for example, 800 watt amp / 13.8 = 58 amps.And, unless you drive around at full volume with the amps' gain/sensitivity all the way up, take about 50%-75% of that, and you'll have somewhere in the ballpark of your average current draw.

Yes, and not to argue, but the method I mentioned also covers it incase someone decides to sit in a parking lot with their car running at idle and pound the shit out of their system. But your method works well too.

LightningGSX · 05-04-2005

I was just adding to what you said, so he would know how to calculate his average current draw.