This problem just popped up.. everything has been great with the radio up till now. This is in my 1987 Chevy K5 Blazer..

All of a sudden, the amp is losing power, but only when the engine is running, it cuts in and out pretty badly, even at low volume. (no subs or anything, just 6x9's)

If I turn off the engine, and have the key in either the Acc or on position, the radio is able to play fine.

i did smell some slight "burnt electronics" smell for a minute, but it was very slight.

I'm normally pretty good at figuring out electrical stuff, but this one came out of nowhere, and I'm not sure where to look!

ps I tested the battery and alternator for voltage, 12.8V engine off, 14.1V engine on.

 

Check all grounds. From amp, battery, alternator and block! Don't run on low power as it will damage your amps and speakers. If all else fails, make a proper ground from the head unit to the frame.

 

Alternator tested ok, but theres a lot of voltage drop when load is placed on it...

I Opened up the amp and heres what I found, the source of the smell...



Notice the resistor to the right of the white block and the large dark spot in the center of the board... hmm

 

warranty time!!!!

or just get it fixed.

 

haha its an older amp, it came with the truck so I'll just upgrade

 

cant really find a better excuse than yours.

good luck

 

Thanks, I got an old 2 channel 400w lanzar vibe amp in there now, seems to be working ok for the time being.