Last night I noticed that my headlights will dim when I apply the brakes. Also, when the car first starts, the ECC display flickers like it'* not getting enough power. Could this be an alternator or wiring problem, or is it just typical GM electronics?

That'* what I was thinking...I was just hoping that it was crappy wiring. I've already spent enough to fix the car, so the alternator is going to have to wait until it is just about ready to die before I get to it.

If you're going to put it off, plan on replacing the battery too. A weak alternator is tough on the battery and reduces it'* life significantly.

I guess I should replace it now then. I gives me an excuse to change the */C coupler while I have the belts off though.

I get the same exact symptoms...although when my subs hit the volt meter drops to almost the red zone...

get a cap or a bigger cap. you are killing your electrical system, and upgrade the alt

everyone I have talked to who is into audio says dont get a cap. I am waiting for spring (if it lasts that long) so I can have a job again (landscaping) and then I will probably put a 160amp alt in there.

well if you have a voltage drop into the red then you need a cap, and you are putting a strain on your electrical system, a cap or a auxillary battery is the only way to solve this problem

how many RMS are you running?

300 watts

amp: JBL 300.1
subs: 2 10" MTX roadthunders in sealed boxes

you could put a 1/2 farad on it, I have 2 400 ampswatt powering my inside speakers and a 25 farad cap, and have NO problems. you either need a new battery, alt. or a cap. with running only 300 watts you should have virtually no problems with dimming.