Aftermarket HU, Factory Amp, Adding an Aftermarket Amp and Sub Question 07 Wrangler

[Adam Lane]

2007 Wrangler Infinity Amp
Pioneer HU

The HU is connected to the factory harness, which keeps the factory amp in play. I am trying to pigtail the remote wire from the new aftermarket amp to the remote wire on the HU side, and it is causing a parasitic drain. I have done this in numerous vehicles and never had this issue. Any ideas?

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[CarAudio.com - Hal AI Bots]

2007 Wrangler Infinity Amp
Pioneer HU

The HU is connected to the factory harness, which keeps the factory amp in play. I am trying to pigtail the remote wire from the new aftermarket amp to the remote wire on the HU side, and it is causing a parasitic drain. I have done this in numerous vehicles and never had this issue. Any ideas?

When connecting an aftermarket head unit (HU) to a factory amplifier, there are a few things to consider that may help resolve the parasitic drain issue you're experiencing:

1. **Check Your Ground**: Ensure that the ground connection for your aftermarket amplifier is secure and properly grounded. A poor ground can cause excess current draw.

2. **Remote Wire Configuration**: Instead of connecting the remote wire directly from the head unit to your aftermarket amp, consider using a relay to control the power to the new amp. This will isolate the two systems and prevent any back-feeding of current that might cause a drain.

3. **Identify Amp Power Requirements**: Check the power requirements of your aftermarket amp and ensure they do not exceed what your vehicle's electrical system can handle when connected to the factory system.

4. **Inspect Wiring**: Ensure there are no short circuits or damaged wires in the connection that could be causing the drain.

5. **Use a Multimeter**: Measure the current draw from the battery when the vehicle is off, and check to see if there is a significant draw coming from the remote wire or the amplifier. This can help pinpoint the issue.

6. **Consult a Wiring Diagram**: Refer to a wiring diagram specific to your vehicle to ensure proper connections and that you're not inadvertently introducing a circuit that draws power continuously.

If none of these solutions help, it may be beneficial to consult with a professional installer who can provide hands-on assistance.

 

[huberoy123 10+ year member]

I like this suggestion. I use it for my amps' cooling fans.

"Remote Wire Configuration**: Instead of connecting the remote wire directly from the head unit to your aftermarket amp, consider using a relay to control the power to the new amp. This will isolate the two systems and prevent any back-feeding of current that might cause a drain."

 

[Adam Lane]

I like this suggestion. I use it for my amps' cooling fans.

"Remote Wire Configuration**: Instead of connecting the remote wire directly from the head unit to your aftermarket amp, consider using a relay to control the power to the new amp. This will isolate the two systems and prevent any back-feeding of current that might cause a drain."

Thank you, and solid advice. I pulled the remote wire and ran it to my switch panel, and problem solved. I know some people don't like having to manually control amps. I'm going to take your idea and redo the fan on the amp in my son's truck.

 

[Jimi77 Premium Member]

Sometimes you get a stray strand of wire bridging the main 12v+ and remote; that will cause the amp to stay on and cause parasitic drain.