Stereo amplifier

[ddm156]

Having an issue with my sound system. I have a head unit, amp, 4 speakers and 2 12" subs. I believe my amp is on the fritz. When I start truck I have my stereo, but after about 5min it cuts out. Head unit advances time, displays as normal. Little red light on amp goes out. If I turn truck off and back on still nothing. But if I wait maybe 20-30 mins and start truck the process repeats itself. Not a grounding issue I'm positive. My best guess is the amp is bad, which is surprising because its a good quality piece of its day, 15 years ago, and has had low use in this many years.

 

[SteveL]

If your running topless many don't like being out in the elements. I'm no expert on the newer mega bass systems but I've had the best luck with pioneer products. Or some guys run Marine grade stuff for boats

 

[Shimmy]

Sometimes amps will auto turn off if they are running too hot. Are you running a separate sub amp?

 

[jdowns67]

Are the speakers and the subs on the same amp? Sounds like the amp may be going into protection mode. Check the ground and the power. If it still does it, I would start by disconnecting the Sub speakers and then others to see if it still does it. One of the speakers may have a short and pulling too much current.

 

[Jdgephar]

How you wire the subs and the coil resistance (measured in ohms) has a big impact on the amp as well. Are the subs wired in series, or in parallel? Does each sub have 1 or 2 coils? Does the amp have two outputs, one for each sub, or are both subs on 1 output from the amp?

 

[jerry]

Are the speakers and the subs on the same amp? Sounds like the amp may be going into protection mode. Check the ground and the power. If it still does it, I would start by disconnecting the Sub speakers and then others to see if it still does it. One of the speakers may have a short and pulling too much current.

Agreed, sounds like protection / overload mode.
If you are inclined, pull the cover on the amp and see if any smoke has escaped, bulging capacitors, etc.
Does it cut out even if you're playing at a lower volume?
You may also want to check the trigger wire going to the amp as well, to ensure it's providing constant voltage to the amp.

I'll be interested to learn what you find!