Am I running too much power from my alternator? The alternator is rated at 80 amps and I just replaced it about 200 miles ago.

Here's my setup:
Eclipse System, includes the 'brain', flip-out monitor, and 6 disc changer
DVD player
1200 Watt Sony Xplod AMP
2 1200 12" Xplod Subs

The reason I ask is because I already had to replace my alternator 1 time and I don't want to burn this one up from running too much power. When I first start driving the car after sitting in the heat all day, my tach goes crazy and jumps everywhere and my temp. shoots up to hot and the fuel gauge goes up to full. Then a little after driving, maybe like 10 mins, it all goes away and everything works fine. I can't decide if this is my alternator or not.

 

anybody?

 

you should get an alternator with a higher output, and a capacitor and possibly another battery. you are currently trying to power your system with an electrical system that was not designed for such a load thus all of the weakest links such as the alternator fail. also your system is not performing to all its ability having a weak electrical system.

 

for what you are running you should be ok as long as your battery is in good shape. dont use a cap!! they are a waste. if you get dimming, its time for a bigger alt and batt. that amp is more than likely only 400 rms.

 

x2 caps are a waste

i have a 300amp one on my crx

 

Buy a good grounding kit, then worry about the rest.

Effeciency > Power