Datatek
Well-Known Member
- Posts
- 44,913
- Location
- Near Poitiers SW France
Upping the alternator amps will make no difference, your alternator can put out at least 100 amps but it's unlikely that the battery will ever charge at that rate. How long the alternator takes to recharge the battery is a mute point and will vary depending on many things. Short runs are battery killers especially on diesels with the additional load imposed by the glow plugs and high compression, that's why on more modern vehicles there is a period of charging at up to 18 volts after starting.. Road speed makes little difference as the alternator spins at many times crank speed these days so most will charge at a good rate from little more than tick over.
I use solar panels to keep mine topped up. I have one permanently mounted and connected in the rear window of my Transit as it only does short runs.
I use solar panels to keep mine topped up. I have one permanently mounted and connected in the rear window of my Transit as it only does short runs.