I've done extensive voltage testing, the results are all on that forum link I posted in the previous page of this thread. Here is some of the information:
1. Sound system turned completely down:
14.7v at the battery, fuse box under the hood, rear fuse box, and capacitor.
2. Sound system high volume:
Voltage drops to around 12v and stays around there. It recovers to a higher number when the there is a break in the bass but comes back down when the bass starts hitting again.
With a second battery set up replacing the capacitor, similar results as #2 above.
I was told that when the truck is running, it is the alternator supplying the power anyways and a second battery is important to avoid draining the main battery but more important when listening with the engine off. If I even install the second battery with a split charger, my alternator would still be working to keep that battery charged wouldn't it? its 2400W in addition to the factory upgraded 1200W sound system. The battery wouldn't be able to keep charge long enough without the alternator kicking in for the 2400W total amplifies I figure.
When I replaced the battery about 2 years ago, I did only because of this problem. My original battery tested fine I was told but I wanted to put in a fresh one to rule it out completely. If I plug my battery into a charger after a drive, it shows about 60% charge and goes up from there. Feels like the alternator can't supply the sound and charge the battery enough at the same time. A second battery would only be that much more taxing on the alternator wouldn't it?
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