Taps cutting out stereo

[bobbysky]

Since I bought my boat the taps always cuts out the stereo when it's in operation. It doesn't pop or hiss like others have problems with. Just cuts the stereo out when hitting the switch and comes right back on when you let go. After I redid my stereo system I thought it would fix the issue with bigger power cables to the amps. But I think it's cutting the head unit off which shuts the amps off as well.

Any thoughts?

[dogbert]

You have a grounding issue in your TAPS switch at the throttle. It's causing a short in the circuit that also powers your head unit, which in turn causes the rest of your system to cut out. I'd either move the head unit to be powered entirely by the same circuit as your amps (i.e., isolated from your dash and gauges) or replace the switch in the throttle (probably want to do that anyway).

[brockroorda]

I have extra switches that go in the throttle if your interested. If so let me know and I'll give ya the part # and you can confirm it is the same as your model. I just replaced mine.

[chpthril]

Does the head unit actually shut off, or just kinda mutes the music till you let up on the TAPS button?

[bobbysky]

I'm pretty sure the head unit is shutting off.

[chpthril]

Ok, a couple of things come to mind. Could be a low or weak battery, poor ground or power connection that feeds the helm (where the TAPS and stereo draw from) bad ignition switch.

[bobbysky]

I noticed that I forgot to plug back the ground wire for my ACR, so the battery wasn't charging. Maybe that's the problem. I'll do some charging and I'll get back to you.

[philwsailz]

That could sure do it....

Let us know...

Still, I would recommend moving the head unit power to the same circuit as the amps; it makes a difference...

[bobbysky]

I'll try that phil. Thanks

[ds@earmark]

bobby,

I'm assuming that your amplifiers are wired directly to the battery or battery switch.

I would pull my source unit off the factory harness and wire both the supply, including memory, and ground to my largest amplifier power and ground terminals (or as close to the amplifier as possible). This is in contrast to wiring the source unit to the battery/switch also. Use no less than 14-gauge wire.

If you need to maintain the factory key function then use an intercept relay to emulate the key operation.

Just for grins check your battery voltage and check the voltage drop as you use the switch.

David
Earmark Marine