Quote:
Originally Posted by ***nutjob
Sounds like a crock, but if someone wants to do a before and after dyno that's just about the only real proof.
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The first time I heard about these grounding kits, that was my reaction too. It seems ridiculous that adding a few ground wires to the electrical system would have any real impact, but here are some facts that lend credence to Jeremy's experience.
1. A poor ground results in lower potential difference (i.e. voltage), so the power system has to work harder to generate the proper voltage. Additionally, reducing the resistance in the grounding system (by adding additional wiring) helps increase the potential difference in the system. In other words, you drop the load on the alternator by improving the ground. When you reduce the workload on the alternator, your engine doesn't have to work as hard to turn the crank. That will translate to better fuel economy. The question isn't IF it works, but HOW MUCH will it help?
2. All the electrical devices in your vehicle generate "reactive power." Basically, it's a form of resistance that's created because different electric devices use electricity in different phases. I'll be honest - I missed quite a few of my electrical engineering courses in college - but I will say this with certainty: The effect on a small system (like a car) is minor, but the effect on a large system (like a power distribution network) is profound. It's one of those "little things that all add up to a lot" sort of deal. By improving the ground, you can reduce the effects of this odd electrical phenomenon.
3. The ground wires keep the electricity "clean" and reduce the amount of junk frequencies that are transmitted with the power. These junk frequencies (generated by all of your car's electrical devices) *could* impact the performance of spark plugs and the ECU, but *more likely* you'll notice it with your stereo. Dirty power will produce static and odd sounds in car stereos.
4. Jeremy is 100% trustworthy - if the guy says he got better gas mileage, I believe him! :-)
Anyways, like you said, it's worth a shot. I would say to anyone that it can't hurt, and if you have an after-market stereo, don't hesitate to do this mod. It will improve the sound coming out of your speakers at the very least...
Anyways, I thought I would share. I had to defend Jeremy too!
Here's another explanation of grounding kits that lends some credence to Jeremy's experience:
Car Bibles : Fuel additives and retrofit devices
(it's 3/4 of the way down the page).
