Ground 'Em.

["Al Powell" <APOWELL@agcom.tamu.edu>]

> From: TMein@aol.com
 
> I have significant engine noise when the radio is turned on. System is a
> clarion cd in the dash, powering 4" boston acoustics seps in the dash. Preamp
> outputs go to an equalizer that splits out with two sets of RCA cables. THese
> route along the floor to a 4 channel Rockford Fosgate; this is split 40 W to
> rear door boston ac 5" seps and a Bazooka unpowered sub. The amp is connected
> (power) directly to the battery under the rear seat; the ground is on a bolt
> where the 3rd rear seat would be.
> 
> My ground for the radio itself is a screw on the center console mounting
> bracket. Is this a good place? I can't find another location? any
> suggestions?

I would sugest that you gather ALL grounds for this system and 
connect tthem to one point.  The current setup has potential for 
ground loops.  But I doubt this will totally eliminate the noise - it 
has helped but not totally eliminated noise for me.  I suspect you 
will need to add a filter, capacitor (also a filter) or both on your 
power lead(s).

As long as your ground screw is firmly based in body metal, where it 
is on the body is irrelevant.  Just make sure that if you're not 
screwed directly to the body, the component to which you are 
"grounded" IS directly attached.  Every now and then one grounds to a 
part which turns out to be poorly grounded itself.  If I can't find a 
good ground spot, I use the side of the tranny hump, peel back the carpet, 
drill a hole in the floor pan and fground to that.  I can cover the 
screw tip with silicone or mastic from underneath - although it's 
usually self-sealing.

PS: Where is that bazooka mounted?  If in the trunk, did you vent to 
the passenger compartment?  Can't see how you could put it inside the 
passenger area....


*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***

Al Powell                           Voice:  409/845-2807
Ag Communications                   Fax:    409/862-1202
107 Reed McDonald Bldg.             Email:  a-powell1@tamu.edu 
College Station, TX  77843-2112
W3 page - http://agcomwww.tamu.edu/agcom/rpe/alpage.htm

                    ***GO, PACKERS!!!***
*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***