Hey,

I have an AMS small battery in my car (previous owner had it installed.)

I have the mitsu gauge package so I have a volt meter in my car.

I was curious as to a couple things.

1. Sitting in a car with my key set to ACC listening to my radio, do I have anything to worry about if I listen to the radio for 45 minutes to an hour?

2. I have a custom tune, does a small battery tie into my tune? I am considering depending on my other questions using a larger battery to avoid issues if necessary.

3. Am I likely to have starting issues in New Jersey winters?

Thanks to anyone who can provide me with some valid info. I know little about electrical aspects of cars so I appreciate feedback.

-Jeff

 

1) Personally I would be careful listening to the stereo without the car running especially if you have amps running

2) Nope

3) I would check out what battery you are using and just make sure it has a good charge. Last time I checked AMS uses a mini battery rated with 680CCA which isn't to shabby.

 

when the key is turn to ACC the volt reading is consistantly at twelve with minimal fluctuation with the radio on...is that okay?

 

You need to be aware of the amp/hour rating of the battery. That will determine how long it can run without the alternator charging it. Most likely that is where the difference lies between your stock batt and the mini batt. Also, as EnJaNir said, if you have amps in your stereo this could cause a problem draining the batt.

If you are worried about the winter time...maybe a battery tender would be a good investment for you. It will keep a top charge on the batt as it sits overnight. I dont live in a really cold environment though so I cant be to sure on that one.

 

An Odyssey 680 battery will last about 15 minutes running the radio without the engine on.
I recommend to my customers that we put a full size battery back in for our Michigan winters.

Darin