#1711490 - 09/28/09 12:38 PM
High output alternators.
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PPI Diamante
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Does anyone know if replacing your stock alternator will cause additional strain to your engine if the output is significantly higher? Does it affect gas mileage or anything like that?
I am guessing that the belt has a higher tension with a bigger alternator, but I have little experience with the issue. Thanks for the help.
While I am on the subject, does anyone know of a good source for an 09 XB high output alternator? Thanks.
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#1711658 - 09/28/09 07:06 PM
Re: High output alternators.
[Re: PPI Diamante]
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kamikazePSI
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a HO does put more drag on an engine...but i doubt you'd see a noticeable difference.
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#1713281 - 10/02/09 02:18 AM
Re: High output alternators.
[Re: kamikazePSI]
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xTHANATOPSISx
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A significantly larger alternator could produce a similarly larger level of power consumption. For example, doubling the alternator output from 100 amps to 200 amps could/should require double the horsepower to operate at it's peak output. The issue is, some alternators are more efficient than others. A poorly built high output unit could need a greater than proportional increase in horsepower at peak, while a more efficient alternator could need less power to operate.
Additionally, changes in pulley size can effect the power necessary to operate the alternator simply due to changes in mechanical advantage. This is the reason why many performance-minded people use what are called under-drive pulleys to reduce accessory speeds and therefore reduce "parasitic" power consumption.
Finally, you're likely not listening to test tones all the time, so your musical demands will be dynamic (ranging from quieter levels to louder peaks). This means your electrical demands will be similarly dynamic, not requiring much power most of the time. Your peak power consumption will be similarly brief as the musical peaks of your preferred listening material.
So, the short answer, if you will, is that you can't make a blanket statement that will accurately predict the change in engine power consumed by your alternator's increase in current capability. It depends on the change in current rating, your average current demands, any changes in pulley diameter, the rpm/output curve of the alternator, changes in efficiency and the average current demanded from your musical and listening tastes.
It's not likely any changes will be grossly significant. I doubt you'd be able to measure the differences in fuel mileage with a calculator and a gas station receipt.
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#1715438 - 10/07/09 01:12 PM
Re: High output alternators.
[Re: xTHANATOPSISx]
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PPI Diamante
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Thanks for taking the time to give such an informative response.
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