Installing Energy Storage Capacitor(s)

How do I install an Energy Storage Capacitor (Stiffening Capacitor™) in my car audio system?

These instructions are for installing an Energy Storage Capacitor.  You must charge a capacitor prior to installation.

WARNING: Capacitors must be charged prior to installation. If not, you’ll see lots of pretty sparks and the screw terminals will be damaged from your temporary ‘arc welding’. Never connect a capacitor to the vehicle electrical system with a Resistor or Charge Card installed.

 Electrical System Diagram

Install the capacitor(s) as close to the amplifier(s) as possible. Keep power cable (B+) between the capacitor and amplifier within 18" (45 cm.) DO NOT place any fuses between the cap and the amplifier.

Precaution
The capacitor may be mounted in any position. However, care should be taken to ensure the vent plug (rubberized piece) on the top of the capacitor is not blocked. This vent is a pressure relief valve. Should the electrical polarity accidentally become reversed (+12 Volts hooked up to the negative terminal, and -12 Volts hooked up to the positive terminal at the same time,) fluid will exit from this vent. This will make the capacitor useless due to damage and void the capacitor’s warranty. Before proceeding, remove the main power fuse from the audio system. The electrical power for any audio system should be properly protected with an in-line fuse on the positive wire. This fuse should be installed within 18" (45cm) of the battery.

Capacitor Installation
Installation is simple and straightforward. A capacitor should be mounted as close to the amplifier as possible, keeping the wire runs short to reduce the possibility of power loss through the cables. When wiring the capacitor, we recommend using the same gauge wire as that of the power & ground connection to the amplifier. Using the mounting brackets supplied with the capacitor, secure it as close to the amplifier as possible. Be careful that there are no obstructions underneath the capacitor that may puncture the cylinder when securing the brackets.

Connect the capacitor Negative (-) terminal (this terminal may be unmarked) to the nearest chassis ground. To minimize ground loops, this grounding point should be the same point of the chassis as the amplifier ground. The length of cable between the capacitor and the chassis should be kept as short as possible or be within 18" (45cm) in length. Connect the capacitor Positive (+) terminal to the B+ power source. Keep the positive wire within 18" (45cm) of the amplifier to reduce voltage loss in the cable. The same gauge wire should be used for this power connection as for the ground connection. If the capacitor is used in a multi-amp system, a non-fused power distribution block may be used as a junction point for the capacitor to "tap into" the power source. Be sure that there are no fuses located between the capacitor and the amplifier. Remember - the secret to a successful capacitor installation is to install the capacitor as close to the amplifier(s) as possible.

Be careful not to over-tighten the terminal screws. Stripped or broken terminals are NOT covered by ANY capacitor manufacturer's warranty.

Replace Main Power Fuse
Replace the main power fuse you removed earlier located near the battery. Double check all connections and replace any plastic covers used to shield the power connections.

* Stiffening Capacitor™ is a trademark of AutoSound 2000