Factory Alternator - Regulator

[Brent Headberg]

I own a 1990 Hunter 33.5 with a 2GM20F Yanmar. According to the Yanmar specs, it's fitted with a 55 amp Alternator, and I assume an internal regulator. I am going to install new Group 31 Deep Cycle batteries in the boat and was wondering if I can hook up an external digital regulator to provide the new batteries with a better charging cycle.Anybody had experience with this?Cap'n BrentS/V Elena Luahttp://www.elenalua.homestead.com

 

[Steve Dion]

How many batteries.

Cap'n Brent:You did not mention how many batteries you plan on charging. If you only have 2 batteries you alternator may be enough (depending on your load).If you are going with Gel or AGM batteries you can get better performance with a new alternator with a charger that will optimize the charging.There are several choices. You should determine your energy load number of batteries and a budget.

 

[Jay Eaton]

Information from Web

Check out this website first, http://www.amplepower.com/. You will find the information useful in your decision process.

 

[Paul]

wanted to thank jay

Jay, you posted the amplepower URL in response to a posting of mine from a last week. I've been out of town and didn't read it until yesterday.So, thank you for the info. It's a great site and the company, Ample Power, has a ton of information --not to mention attitude -- there for all to see. I'm still digesting it.

 

[Tom Boles]

Well, it depends...

if you want to maintain the current alternator, it will have to be modified to allow the use of an external regulator. I have not done this, but it does not look too hard. Once done, you can use a wide variety of external regulators.If you want to go to a new high output alternator, I think it's about a 70 amp maximum for the location, mounting and power transfer capability of the single belt drive (not to mention the engine!)You can always go in stages: buy and mount the batteries and see how it works and THEN decide if a new regulator and or alternator is necessary.Depending on how and where your batteries are charged (in the slip or while running the engine) may dictate if a new multi-stage battery charger is the better approach or if the alt/reg combo is the way to go.Cheers!

 

[Ed Schenck]

Could be wrong but. . .

I think a new alternator is in your future. I read somewhere that the 55Amp Hitachi is hard or impossible to rewire for an external regulator.Be sure to study those expert opinions. A larger alternator puts a load on mounting brackets, waterpump bearings, and uses more horsepower.