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Question:

What causes the power cable to my amp to smoke?

I bought a new amp and sub to replace my old ones. I disconnected the battery, unplugged the old amp and plugged the new one in and when I reconnected my battery the power cable began to smoke at all the exposed ends and got very hot. What causes this? Is it because the new amp requires more current than the old one and that is causing it to get very hot? And what is the solution to my problem?Thanks

Answer:

What it sounds like is you accidentally connected the wires to the wrong terminals. If current were an issue u would most likely blow a fuse. But dont rule it out, u could just need a thicker gauge power 12v line. And also remember to ALWAYS GROUND the amp. either way, if it is an amp desined for car use, youre batt would never be too much power. If it is a high watt amp, you should look into buying a capaciter. Itll help regulate voltage usage and extend the life of your batt and alternator.
you are creating a short circuit with the battery if this is happening while the amp is not on. disconnect all wires and make sure your positive lead goes to only positive terminal /amp input. then do the same for the ground. if you dont have a fuse protecting the wire it will get so hot it will melt the insulation and start a fire. if this is happening only when the amp is on and your system is pulling a large current through it (music real loud) then you need to upgrade your wires asap. make sure you have a fuse protecting the power wire close to the battery and a fuse whenever you downgrade in size of wire. a $1 fuse with the correct rating for the wire its protecting will safe your *** if you short circuit.

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