Charging time from a high output alternator

[Barry Needalman]

Will upgrading to a high output alternator (100a) from the standard (40a) make a big difference in the amount of time I have to run the engine in order to charge the house bank? The Xantrex battery meter shows the charging current dropping after only a few minutes of running time.Would I be better off investing in AGM batteries which supposedly can take a higher charging current for a longer time?

 

[Trevor - SailboatOwners.c]

Regulator

Hi Barry -The real key is how your alternator is regulated. Most stock alternators are internally regulated and designed for automotive use. Cars are not designed to run loads for extended periods of time, so the batteries rarely get drained beyond initial starting. Therefore, the internally regulated alternators drop charging off quickly. I would suggest upgrading to a Balmar high output alternator WITH 3 stage regulator which senses battery voltage - this allows for a longer bulk charging phase before float. As for AGM batteries, flooded batteries are still the best value but require more maintenance. Hope this helps!Trevor