JUSTIN_5PNT0

I was wondering if my stereo can not keep my programmed setting on my 87 5.o vert because of the alternator or what is the problem? ANy ideas will be apperciated.

Sxynerd

Yellow wire is the acc and the red is the fused batt. The Red holds power for the memory and the Acc activates it when the keys turns on. Also, the black is of course the ground and it isn't always enough to wire it to the cage (Which is what most noobs do). Ground it to the firewall or the metal frame of the dash.

Chaoss84GT50

does your battery have 12 volts when the car is off? It wouldnt be an alternator issue, because you lose your presets when you turn the car off not when the car is idling.

Sxynerd

it has nothing to do with the Alternator.

Chaoss84GT50

Like sxynerd said, check ground and make sure that it is a GOOD ground, meaning no paint rust or corrosion on either end. You want your ground wire as short as possible and a bigger gauge then the power wire too.

Sxynerd

That's not even remotely true! I'm a MECP Jedi Master, don't give out wrong info to people. It's a common mistake made by way to many people.

Chaoss84GT50

both parts arent true or only one part of the statement isnt true? I would like to know so that I do not continue to give out sh!tty info. My brother was lead tech at a stereo shop for 7 years and hes always told me both of those things. Please inform me so I can have the right info.

Sxynerd

Think of power as walking a tight rope. you need equivalent balance on either side to be able to gain the appropriate momentum forward. The ground and power should be able to have "about" equal amounts of flow to complete the circuit. I wont bore you or myself trying to explain technicals but if you want some good reading hit up a torrent site and find MECP Basic study guide. It's great reading for the novice.

Obviously we wont sit down and figure flow algorithms for simple 12v electronics but it's always good to double think what you're wiring.

Chaoss84GT50

Is that MECP guide the blue book? I read a big blue book about 8 years ago that was almost like a study guide for this school in Arizona that certifies master stereo techs and the such. I might have to read that, I like to think of myself as decently savvy in the electronics dept. Thanks for the info, its always good to learn new stuff.

Sxynerd

If you want, PM me your email and I'll send you a copy tomorrow when I get to my other computer. Its great reference and even though I am far beyond the basic levels of 12v I still refer to my hard copy pretty often.