4 replies to this topic

[Ross-Ferry]

Hi when the weather cheers up abit i am going to be fiting

• PS2 fat one
• Amp 200 RMS (1200 MAX) 2 channels
• 2x12" subs running probs about 300 Watt
• Already have a dixie horn fitted
• in the future might be puting another amp in 2 channel 100 RMS
• small screen for PS2

i have a 1990 mini with standered alt just wondering if i need to upgrade and if so what should i upgrade to i was looking at a 70amp.
(http://www.minispare...27 70AMP 198...)

Thanks

[mars red mike]

I would go for a 70amp alternator and an uprated battery if you dont have one already, the Pug 306TD is the one to get. Another worthwhile mod is to fit a
bigger (thicker) battery positive and earth cable.

[Ross-Ferry]

ok thank you for the fast reply i will be geting that when i get abit of the green stuff

[Ethel]

You need to tally up how much of that stuff you are likely to use, along with standard eqpt like lights & wipers when the engine is running. I can't see a need to upgrade the battery cables unless the current drain comes close to the starter motor's - i.e. if your amps run the battery flat in under 5 minutes! It's the electrical power of the amps you're interested in not PMP or other sound related figures.

Batteries have two ratings: CCA (cold cranking amps) which is how much power it can muster at once to spins the starter, a bit like horsepower. AH (amp/hours) or capacity is like the size of the fuel tank the higher the number the longer the battery will last running things like ICE when you're using more leccy than the alternator can supply.

[CooperKershaw]

I'm not hijacking your thread but i had a relevant question. I'm in the same situation, i've just bought a 60AH 600 CCA battery and am now looking to uprate the alternator. I have a 1996 Cooper S, i *think* the alternator is a 45amp?? and i'm looking to upgrade to a 70ish amp. Question is what long term affects will this have on the battery, i know theoretically the battery is always supplied as i don't have enough ICE to drain the alternators output but what effect could be placed on the cables and battery internals if i'm, constantly 'overloading' the battery with return amps?

Regards