Alternator output to battery power............

[Smiler]

Hello folks,

just fitted a 90amp alternator to my van. The starter battery is rated at 60Ahr, it won`t damage the battery by putting too much power out will it?

I apologise if it`s a stupid question, I have yet to fit a leisure battery.

BTW, if the old alternator put out 45Ahr would the battery ever be fully charged by it?

[Mocki]

you wont damage your battery, the alternator will not put more to it than it will take.......

the old alternator wouldnt have fully charged a fully flat battery of 60 amph, but then nor will the 90amp alternator.......

[Smiler]

the old alternator wouldnt have fully charged a fully flat battery of 60 amph, but then nor will the 90amp alternator.......

Tell me more please mate..........

[Red Westie]

A higher output alternator won't overcharge the battery. The output is controlled by the regulator, this sensors battery voltage and if found to be low it increases the amount of field current to the rotors which then increases output. As soon as battery voltage increases, field current to the rotors is lowered and alternator output decreases.
That's why this unit is called a regulator.

The benefit of a larger alternator is that it can charge quicker and can cope with increased current demands from multiple batteries and the extra drain from high end ancillaries like big sound systems, DVD players for the kids whilst on the move etc

See this link for a more in depth explaination:
http://www.alternatorparts.com/understa ... nators.htm

[kevtherev]

well put Red westie... simple clear description.

[Smiler]

Cheers lads