honestly are caps worth it

[LaBeLkilLs87 10+ year member]

Ok, this might be a dumb question...but are caps worth it, some say they are but some say there not. I dont want to have to replace my **** alturnator or anything like that, and i found one that will work and it only cost like 80 bucks...not a big deal. Im pushing about 800watts or so, but tell me what you think, thanks

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[Alpine CDA-9815 10+ year member]

A bigger alt will cost $150-200. Caps will help the amp some, but as far as lights dimming, and helping with voltage drop I doubt it. They only store power, they don't create it, you're better off getting a new alt.

 

[JimJ 5,000+ posts]

furthermore, caps will present more of a load on your charging system, furthering your need for a new alternator //content.invisioncic.com/y282845/emoticons/smile.gif.1ebc41e1811405b213edfc4622c41e27.gif

 

[supa_c 5,000+ posts]

easy answer, no.

 

[xSomeguyx 10+ year member]

Most people will say no, but they still have their place in power conditioning. The big question, are you having any problems? If you're not, then don't bother. Before you think about a cap, give the big 3 a shot. If you've still got dimming, then see if you can find someone that'll lend you a cap for a few days, and see if it solves your problems. I personally like the idea of a HO alternator, but am downright offended with the cost (not to mention the voiding of warranties).

 

[Acidburn 5,000+ posts]

if you're already dimming and have voltage drop issues, a cap will only make things worse

 

[kwang125 10+ year member]

Didn't Richard Clark say NO about Cap ?? !!

 

[PV Audio 5,000+ posts]

caps do nothing but hold power which comes from the alt. in other words, it doesn't do shit cause its just holding the alt's power.

 

[LaBeLkilLs87 10+ year member]

Ok, so if i dont get a cap im going to need to get a new alt. I always hear people talking about Red tops and tellow tops, Whats the difference? and what is the price range of them all, and lastly will i need to keep going thru new batts. and cap? any info will be usefull thanks.

 

[3.5Max6spd 10+ year member]

a bat cap may be your solution....read

http://www.batcap.net

 

[Hooter 10+ year member]

I always tell people to get a better battery then a cap, a cap will not do anything if there is not enough juice going to it, I have two yellow top Optima's and a 15 amp alternator, and I have no problem running the camper, stereo and the occasional winch, more then enough juice, caps are more of a bandaid solution as opposed to a proper permanent solution

 

[supraman1379 10+ year member]

I think a cap is worth it. Because it does mopre than just store power. It also will help run yer amp when yer battery drops below twelve volts. So i would say yes, a cap is worth it.

 

[bass maniak 10+ year member]

use search this q has been awnsered countless times.

the awnser no they are not worth it.

new alt is what u need my friend.

 

[Gauntlet 5,000+ posts]

I think a cap is worth it. Because it does mopre than just store power. It also will help run yer amp when yer battery drops below twelve volts. So i would say yes, a cap is worth it.

If your voltage is dropping below 12v, you should invest your money in solving the problem from the source, instead of trying to tip-toe around it.

 

[MikeofTulsa Moderator]

here's the thing about caps.....they are like a bandaide for an open wound......they wont do alot.....its best to fix the source as so many others have suggested....then when your charging s ystem is up to par.......then think about a cap....