Stereo amps in bilge
 

Running 2 JL amps (no fan cooling). No where in the manuals does it say anything about ignition spark protected, only addresses heat and dampness when considering mounting locations.

Are amps safe for engine compartments as far as ignition protection? I know many do it with no problems, looking for specs.

My bilge is huge and dry, the heat and moisture is not my concern here for this discussion.

Thanks

Here is a link that describes how to isolate electrical devices in the bilge from vapors. The bulk head (or maybe a cabinet) described might help you be in compliance. I wanted to install some air horns to replace the dinky ones in the bilge. A friend cautioned me that if I got inspected down on the coast they would cite the horns as not ignition proof since they did not carry a UL or other testing for ignition proof. Can't help but think an amp would be the same violation if no UL testing sticker. The cfr also reads that any item has to be ignition proof unequivocal in a failure. But, maybe the link below will help you isolate the amp.

http://cfr.vlex.com/vid/183-410-igni...ction-19764034

Don't know if it's "legal" or not but a buddy has run a couple JL 500/1's in the bilge of a 28 velocity or years without issue.

Something to consider.....
I had a customer that had an amp in the engine comp. of his boat. He had a built, supercharged engine.(bulit by someone else....not me) He burned a hole in a piston and it promptly started blowing oil out of the valve cover breathers once the crankcase got pressurized. It blew about 8 quarts of VERY hot oil everywhere, including all over the amp. It trashed the amp, along with the carpet and upholstery in the engine comp. However, that was the least of his worries at that point:lolhit:
Just thought I would relate that story. Something to consider.
Eddie

Nixed the idea after looking at the location that they would be, puts them real close to the batteries. Figure the battery acid fumes just ain't going to make the amps happy. So a little more wire and effort will place them in the cabin.

Thanks

I have mine in the cuddy, use a storage capacitor on your power line.

I would find a better place. As clean, dry, and vaporless as it might seem, you never know. Find a place in the cabin, or under back seat

Another thing to think about is be sure to put them somewhere where there is plenty of ventilation. Mine is tucked in a little "closet" and it will over heat after we crank it for a while. We eventually had to buy a batter powered fan and we turn it on after a couple hours to keep the heat down.

Mine are in the cabin on the wall. Cap, fuse blocks, amps, and wires are all neatly layed out inside. No problems, 3 seasons with the setup. Looks awesome, works awesome.:drink:

I have two amps in the bilge.