Alternator drain

[FJB203 at aol.com]

>  The std alternator drains out 43-45 amps into 14V's. But the alternator
>  which I have now drains 85 amps into 14V's (its just a 1.5ltr engine).
>  
>  Is the overly large alternator the source of the problems?

I seriously doubt it, only because I've always upgraded alternators to 80-120
amps where possible (to support large 15" subwoofers <G>), and never had a
problem with the engine cutting off due to a larger alternator.  I have
however had engines slow down a bit at idle, when turning on all the roof
mounted lights, cranking the stereo, running the rear defroster, and
attempting to use the cigar lighter.  But the engine shouldn't cut out.  I
would check your wiring, make sure your regulator is in good shape, and make
sure the alternator isn't shorted at all.  Is your battery charging
effectively?

You could downgrade if you want, but I don't think it would make much if any,
difference.  The larger alternator will rob more horsepower when the load is
increased, however if the load is the same, large or small alternator
shouldn't make a difference as long as the electrical load is less than the
rating on the alternator.

My Humvee has two alternators, well, actually and alternator and a generator
attached to the engine block, the alternator runs the vehicle normally, and
the generator provides a seperate feed to all the lights, stereo, and
anything that's not "mission critical" to the operation of the vehicle.

Fred