Headlights Dimming

[chris4555]

Ok guys recently fitted a new sound sytem in my car. The list of kit is below

Panasonic CQ9700 HU
Crunch 1000w AMP
sony pentagon 15" 1400W


I have noticed if the engine is on but not traveling that any movement on the steering whell dims the head lights. This happens even if the radio is turned down to 1. Even notice when radio is up and car is moving lights dim with the beat of the song ur listening to. Is this a known problem >? Is my amp and sub sucking to much on the battery. And do I need a power cap ??

Thanks for your help

[SkaterNatty]

Hi mate

I had this problem once. I had 2 head units (one as a dsp) and 2 amps. Its the extra power drain on the battery causing it. You can get a thingymebob to go between your battery and the amps. It's like a big capacitor, I forget what they are called. A farite cap or something, I'm sure someone on here will know its name

Hope this helps with the loud music!

Natty

[Icecavern]

A capacitor wont help with this contrary to popular belief.

What you need to do is upgrade the battery -ve to car body to a better cable. If that on it's own does not help then you will need to also do car body to engine block and alternator to battery +

That normally sorts the problem out. ;)

Pete

[chris4555]

Hi Pete

Thanks for reply. Sounds like a pritty big job. Are you talking about changing the battery cables ? Certainly I can go but a new battery, does it have to have any specifics. I drive MK4 Ibiza sport

[Pabs]

I also believe that this is due to you using the power steering (if you have it) It takes a large draw from the battery and hence the headlights dim, just the same way as if you were to try and use one of your electric windows (again if you have them)

Does it do it with the stereo off completely? Have you tried running other electric things in the car instead of the stereo (like aircon) and then move the steering wheel?

[Fl@pper]

I also believe that this is due to you using the power steering

the loss in electrical power (albeit slight) is down to when the steering is used whilst stood still. The power steering pump needs to take the extra strain to supply the rack with assistance and drags slighlty on the drive belt which also runs the alternator basically it slows it down slightly and as it is turning at its slowest on tickover you lose current supply slightly

try it again and you will see the revs drop slightly on the engine as well as the belt is run off the bottom crank pulley

imagine being on an exercise bike at a steady pace and suddenly someone tightens the belt slighty for a second

if you think its easily done - turn engine off and try turning the steering wheel yourself :redface: Heeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeave :rolleyes:



as pete says improving the earths will help a bit and an upgraded battery if you are needing one

see pabs site (above) theirs some grounding kit links there that are handy

[Icecavern]

Hi Pete

Thanks for reply. Sounds like a pritty big job. Are you talking about changing the battery cables ? Certainly I can go but a new battery, does it have to have any specifics. I drive MK4 Ibiza sport

Not replacing the cables, just add extra ones along side of a thicker gauge. Use 4awg at least and you should be fine.

Pete

[chris4555]

ahhh good good. Cheers all will give it a go