Best way to ground an amp

ScarabMike · Mar 26, 2017

Ok so Ive been installing stereos for a bunch of years. Recently, I gutted my Scarab's crappy Kicker system and installed JL audio components, sub, and 600/6 amp. Im getting noise like my ground isn't good enough. I ran 4 gauge to the battery. The cable I used was marine tin lined copper stranded. I think the tin lining is affecting the ground.

In a vehicle, its not wise to run a ground more than 18". This cable run is over 15'.

Should I move the amp to a location closer to the batteries?

Also, speaker baffles. Who is using them?

subysti · Mar 26, 2017

The length shouldn't matter. Mine is run all the way to the batteries also. You're picking up engine noise. You may need to change the spark plugs to a resistor type plug and that could clear up the noise. Try changing the plugs first, that would be easier then re-wiring the boat.

Mainah · Mar 26, 2017

Individually tinned strands of pure copper is the best marine wire there is and the tin will not cause an issue. CCA or copper clad aluminum is crap but if large enough should not cause your issue either.

In order to prevent ground loops in a vehicle that does not have a chassis to ground (like a boat) your positive and negative runs need to be the same size, length, type, and the head until should use the same path. Good connections are a must as well (including the speakers. 4 awg sounds right for that amp and length of run.

There is a difference between a ground loop and electronic interference. If you are getting emi then you will have track it down.

Good luck.

Murf'n'surf · Mar 26, 2017

Head unit and amps on same battery bank? They should be...

Mainah · Mar 26, 2017

Murf'n'surf said:
Head unit and amps on same battery bank? They should be...

Yes and not only on the same bank but ideally using the same direct power and ground runs to the battery as the amp aka same path.

Ronnie · Mar 26, 2017

Following for the knowledge and wisdom.

Bruce · Mar 26, 2017

I had a similar issue with between external audio sources when connected power from the boat and a Fusion head unit. I resolved the issue by using an optical connection eliminating the ground loop https://jetboaters.net/threads/looking-for-a-12-volt-noise-supressor.2819/

brockhals · Mar 27, 2017

What abut your RCAs? Are they of good quality? They should not run by your power/ground either. Only cross at a 90* angle if necessary

Best way to ground an amp

ScarabMike

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subysti

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Mainah

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Murf'n'surf

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Mainah

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Ronnie

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Bruce

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brockhals

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