2009 BMW 128i Fi Q 10 Power question

[aceorama1 0]

Hey guys,

I am planning on installing a 10in Fi Q subwoofer in my 2009 BMW 128i. I have wanted to do an install in this car for quite a while but limited trunk space has kept me away until I decided to build a custom fiberglass enclosure. I plan on using an AQ1200 D amp with the Q and with that being said I am concerned with the amount of power I will be drawing from the car to power the amp and sub. Any input would be greatly appreciated as to whether or not this might pose a problem in the long run with my battery or alternator.

Thanks in advance.

[emh9009 199]

what size is your alt? We can't really tell. This is a "you have to install it all and see from there" type of situation.

[Luke.H 33]

It depends on the size of your alternator and your vehicle. There's really no way to tell. Most people that run that kind of power don't need HO alternators though. The big 3 is always a good idea. I've heard it's a little extra work in some BMW's because of the battery in the trunk. You could also look into a better starting battery and if you needed it run a second battery. Like Watts said get it installed and go from there. Congrats on the system

[aceorama1 0]

I am 95% sure my alternator is 180amps... if it isn't then it is 150 amps. I can check for sure tomorrow. Assuming I went ahead and did the install and found problems with power realistically how much work / cost might I expect to incur to PROPERLY fix the issue and not just "mask" the problem?

[aceorama1 0]

I am 95% sure my alternator is 180amps... if it isn't then it is 150 amps. I can check for sure tomorrow. Assuming I went ahead and did the install and found problems with power realistically how much work / cost might I expect to incur to PROPERLY fix the issue and not just "mask" the problem?

I say PROPERLY because I had a friend who paid some "professionals" to fix a power problem due to his audio equipment and it turned out they masked the problem and it ended up destroying his alternator.

[emh9009 199]

I am 95% sure my alternator is 180amps... if it isn't then it is 150 amps. I can check for sure tomorrow. Assuming I went ahead and did the install and found problems with power realistically how much work / cost might I expect to incur to PROPERLY fix the issue and not just "mask" the problem?

with that size alt you should be fine. If you do see voltage drop (lights dim or whatever) then you could replace your starting battery or add a second battery. Expect a couple hundred for a battery. XS will be what i recommend For sure do the big 3, just three wires.

I am 95% sure my alternator is 180amps... if it isn't then it is 150 amps. I can check for sure tomorrow. Assuming I went ahead and did the install and found problems with power realistically how much work / cost might I expect to incur to PROPERLY fix the issue and not just "mask" the problem?

I say PROPERLY because I had a friend who paid some "professionals" to fix a power problem due to his audio equipment and it turned out they masked the problem and it ended up destroying his alternator.

haha did they put a cap. in there?

[Luke.H 33]

^ That. You won't need an HO alternator. I would think you would be fine with just the big 3 and an upgraded starter battery, but obviously you should monitor your voltage and if it gets too low add another battery. Its a couple hundred dollars for a good battery from XS. Prices are right here in the SSA store

[aceorama1 0]

Yea they put a cap in his car and didn't end up swapping out the wires they told him they did. He ended up trying to start his car 2 days later to no avail and a dead alternator :/

[Luke.H 33]

Thats a good reason to do your own installs lol