Why add extra batteries??

[Mad_Mike]

I'm planning on getting a couple sundown SA-12's and maybe their 3500 amp, though it is quite pricey.. so i may get another I don't know yet. Sundown recommends that you put an upgraded batt under the hood and one in the back. I've also seen all the high power systems with lots of batteries in the back.. My question is: Why do you need to add more batteries if you have a HO alt capable of supplying all your amp and car accessories? (I posted almost the same question in the electrical equipment section but it seems there's not that much help there.)

[jmilch]

I'm planning on getting a couple sundown SA-12's and maybe their 3500 amp, though it is quite pricey.. so i may get another I don't know yet. Sundown recommends that you put an upgraded batt under the hood and one in the back. I've also seen all the high power systems with lots of batteries in the back.. My question is: Why do you need to add more batteries if you have a HO alt capable of supplying all your amp and car accessories? (I posted almost the same question in the electrical equipment section but it seems there's not that much help there.)

Although you may have a HO alt, you don't have the long term amperage needed to keep up with a nice amp. The bay of batteries or extra battery hold and serve out amperage and voltage as needed.

Remember your amp output fluctuates on both voltage and amperage. Keeper amperage Ah available as well as voltage mean a higher output from the amp.

[TeamHT]

Just because you expect more traffic here, does not mean it won't get deleted, sorry. Just an FYI

[StrongmanDesigns]

takes power to make power. Find out how much amperage your amp can draw and you'll realize you can't put an alternator that big on your vehicle.

[bumonskateboard6]

Batteries store electricity, alternators convert mechanical energy to electrical energy and charge the batteries.

In simplest terms a battery or multiple batteries are what is actually running your amplifiers, the alternator(s) are there to recharge the batteries.

[Mad_Mike]

Ok I get it now, more reserve for the amp(s) if they need it. I'm pretty sure it's the alt that runs the car skateboard6, and the bat is just there for reserve if demand goes over the alt's capability..

[meade916]

Batteries store electricity, alternators convert mechanical energy to electrical energy and charge the batteries.

In simplest terms a battery or multiple batteries are what is actually running your amplifiers, the alternator(s) are there to recharge the batteries.

actually you are wrong bro.....your ALTERNATOR(s) are there to supply the system and everything in the car while it is running. The batteries are only there for when you have more system then you have alternator and drop below its maximum charging ability during heavy use. That or if you are playing the system with the car OFF (like at the beach or something like that.)

basically while the car is running, the alternator should be doing ALL the work.

[412 CVX]

Ok I get it now, more reserve for the amp(s) if they need it. I'm pretty sure it's the alt that runs the car skateboard6, and the bat is just there for reserve if demand goes over the alt's capability..

which will happen..

did you say you were gonna run a 3500 to a couple of sa 12's?

[99fullsizechevy]

Theoretically wouldn't the battery still be running everything and the alt just keeps the battery charged on most cars where as the amps and car are pulling the power from the battery? Unless you have your alt ran directly to the amp..

Technically speaking.. That's what my ase book said..

I'm not saying that's my opinion persay

Edit, I saw it in my book while studying for my auto body finals..

Edited December 28, 2011 by 99fullsizechevy

[Mad_Mike]

Batteries store electricity, alternators convert mechanical energy to electrical energy and charge the batteries.

In simplest terms a battery or multiple batteries are what is actually running your amplifiers, the alternator(s) are there to recharge the batteries.

actually you are wrong bro.....your ALTERNATOR(s) are there to supply the system and everything in the car while it is running. The batteries are only there for when you have more system then you have alternator and drop below its maximum charging ability during heavy use. That or if you are playing the system with the car OFF (like at the beach or something like that.)

basically while the car is running, the alternator should be doing ALL the work.

That being said, if I were to run 2k rms which would pull like what.. 200 give or take amps? If I had a 270xp alt, that would be plenty to run everything with a single batt yeah?