[Public-List] Alternators -- Try a voltmeter!

[Paul Wilson]

Even though the alternator may be rated for 30 Amp output, you won't see it approach rated output unless it is connected to a load in the neighborhood of 360-420 W. Ohm's Law and all that. The regulated voltage is approximately 13.8 V. In other words you're going to need a load of known quantity to get accurate max output readings.

Paul, Slainte #129

Sent from my iPad

> On Jul 16, 2018, at 8:40 PM, Gordon Laco via Public-List <public-list at lists.alberg30.org> wrote:
> 
> Right on, Daniel, I’m considering the same thing.  
> 
> Gordon Laco
> www.gordonlaco.com
> #426 Surprise
> 
> 
> 
>> On Jul 16, 2018, at 8:37 PM, Daniel Sternglass via Public-List <public-list at lists.alberg30.org> wrote:
>> 
>> Hello A-30 people,
>> 
>> Joining in on the battery charging discussion... I replaced my Antique A-30 panel with a new panel 8 years ago, a great investment, though time consuming to install and rewire, plus all the engine sensors...
>> 
>> The new instrument panel has a volt meter, as do most cars these days. If the alternator is working correctly, and can deliver the rated current, the volt meter is a much more useful instrument. The voltage that each battery charges to (and reads out) gives you an indication of the charge state. It's not perfect, but far simpler and cheaper than a true (but expensive) variable rate charger.
>> 
>> There are many articles on this subject in the Practical Sailor archives. A small LCD panel-mount DC volt meter is pretty cheap, self powered and very easy to install.
>> 
>> JMHO :-),
>> 
>> --Dan S.
>> Watcher of the Skies, #201, Cayuga Lake, Ithaca, NY
>> 
>> dans at stmktg.com
>> office: +1607-257-3431
>> mobile: +1607-592-8012
>> 
>> Strategic Marketing Associates
>> 403 Highgate Road
>> Ithaca, NY 14850
>> 
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