The positive side will either be red or have a "+" symbol. Do this by connecting the resistor across the leads of the capacitor. To install a capacitor, start by disconnecting your car’s battery ground terminal so that you can work safely. Both will still get 12+ volts of electric current. Just follow our how to install a car audio capacitor guide below and let us know in the comments if you have any questions or concerns. Having a high ohm value also prevents damage since it charges slower. The best rockford fosgate subwoofers are P3D4-12 Punch P3 DVC 4-Ohm, R500X1D Prime 1-Channel,P3D4-10 Punch,R2S-1X10 Prime R2S Single,P3-2X12 1200 Watts . You can use the test light, but be sure to connect the capacitor in series with the test light. Car Audio Capacitors: A car audio capacitor is an electrical circuit element used to store charge temporarily. A loud and bassy car audio system is great, but it can also hinder other parts of your vehicle. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Another way to charge a capacitor is to wire a test light from the positive terminal of the capacitor to the power line. If you really can’t stand to see another ad again, then please consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. They typically come in cylindrical shapes that are three inches in diameter and about a foot long, though other shapes are also available. Once you have found the main power fuse, remove it. It is an instant power draw on the system and will blow any fuse in the system. It should be near the battery on the main power line for your audio system. Never hold a resistor in your hands when charging/discharging a capacitor. Please help us continue to provide you with our trusted how-to guides and videos for free by whitelisting wikiHow on your ad blocker. What is a capacitor you ask? This should not be confused with a battery, as a cap only temporarily holds a charge. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. Should it come on when the main fuse is put into place, and what would cause the capacitor to power up, but not the amp? Once the capacitor is mounted, connect its positive terminal to the positive terminal of the battery using an 8-gauge wire. This article has been viewed 248,298 times. Then, connect the negative terminals and reconnect your battery's ground terminal to restore power to the entire system. An additional battery is going to be much more reasonable than a capacitor even with the installation costs being taken into consideration. 0:13. I’ve spent countless hours analysing the top products, interviewing consumers & experts to build this list! This fuse is installed with your system to prevent damage to the electrical components of your car, but will need to be removed before charging the capacitor. Once the voltmeter reads about 11 or 12 volts, your capacitor is charged. 61 Pins • 40 Followers. References. If you feel like other accessories are struggling to get the power they need or you notice your headlights significantly dimming, then it may be time to install a capacitor. Now its finally time to install your car audio capacitor. Now all you need to do is get your voltmeter and connect it’s positive lead to the positive terminal of your capacitor.