I have my audio install set up so that it all comes on when i turn the key.
I tend to spend a fair bit of time without the engine running, but with the ignition "on" to power the system.
I remember years ago someone saying that this wasn't good over long periods as the coil is running and will get hot (or something!?)
If this is an issue, can i just remove one of the wires from the coil when i'm parked up and listening to the system?
Other than the fuel gauge and lights on the dash, is there anything else being powered up?
Thanks for your help

I think it is more a problem with electronic ignitions
not sure about points

If your engine is stopped with the points open, and your ignition is on, a spark will keep arcing across the points (particularly if they are slightly open), which will burn them out. Remember they are designed to be open only momentarily. It can also burn out your condensor, and yes damage your coil, which is also designed for momentary current.

Modern cars have an accessory position to run accessories with the engine off, but not when the ignition is off. You will need to wire up an 'accessory' switch so you can switch on the stereo with the engine AND ignition off. Run your stereo off the hot side of the fusebox (ie independent of ignition switch) and put an extra switch in line, maybe beside the steering column. On my Beetle I used one of those small square push-in switches that lights up green when on - get them at Jaycar.

Otherwise, just run the radio hot all the time. You just have to manually turn the stereo off and on, independent of the ignition key.

Thanks for the advice guys!

So with the points / coil thing....in the meantime, until i can get a chance to rewire stuff, will it make any difference pulling any of the wires off the coil or not?

Actually, ignore that....my amps are wired direct from the battery anyway...so i will just swap the positive wire on the headunit to permanant live....doh!!

thanks again!

ummm really

Quote:

Originally posted by djnee I have my audio install set up so that it all comes on when i turn the key. I tend to spend a fair bit of time without the engine running, but with the ignition "on" to power the system. I remember years ago someone saying that this wasn't good over long periods as the coil is running and will get hot (or something!?) If this is an issue, can i just remove one of the wires from the coil when i'm parked up and listening to the system? Other than the fuel gauge and lights on the dash, is there anything else being powered up? Thanks for your help

the main thing you have to watch with modern headunits now is they stay in standby mode when they have ACC power.
there can be nothing powered up on the face but internally they're still using power

if you have a meter its worth checking the draw

the JVC deck in my bug is like that, even though it only has a little LED lit up in the source button it still draws enough to flatten the battery enough over a fortnight or so

luckily being a late model ive used the key in/door ajar chime to power mine so it only works with the key in but as phil said its easy to wire up an on off switch for the headunit power in an early bug