2 Alternators

[Camper_bob]

Woohoo, or meh?

My new RAM 2500 has two alternators (no, it's not a diesel). It was not an option I was looking for, but it just so happened to be on the truck I purchased. Now I'm wondering what I might do with them. Apparently they are there for add-ons to the truck (like ambulances or off road lights or sound systems) that use a lot of electricity.

I'm wondering how I can leverage them for use with my RV. When I had my GMC, it had a spare battery tray in the engine bay and I was thinking of installing an extra deep cycle in there and an inverter so I could run various tools or what not. It never happened...

Anyway, according to what I've read, the factory setup doesn't use the extra amperage put out by the additional alternator in the 12V power to the trailer plug, but I could wire something up separately. I was also thinking it might be worth my while to install another battery and inverter like I was planning with the GMC, I would just have to find a place to mount the extra battery...

Ideas anyone?

[mike837go]

What can you NOT do with an extra 100A @ 12VDC?


Personally, I'd put 75A connectors on the trailer and a convenient place in the truck and carry a spare battery or 3. Every errand or trip to town will recharge the spare(s). Then when I got back to camp, swap the partially discharged one on the trailer with a fully charged one.

[Camper_bob]

Originally Posted by mike837go

What can you NOT do with an extra 100A @ 12VDC?

Right?! I think each is rated 160A, but don't quote me there.

[mike837go]

160A is right at the Alternator with the engine turning 3 grand. Delivering that kind of power without setting everything on fire will require wire from a welding shop or the people that install ridiculous sound systems in cars.


When you've got an embarrassment of riches, try and think reasonably.

[Camper_bob]

Originally Posted by mike837go

160A is right at the Alternator with the engine turning 3 grand. Delivering that kind of power without setting everything on fire will require wire from a welding shop or the people that install ridiculous sound systems in cars.


When you've got an embarrassment of riches, try and think reasonably.

LOL!

I'm also not great at running wires and hooking stuff like this up, let alone knowing what I even need (in terms of parts and supplies) to accomplish a particular goal. Any mod or project in this arena is truly in its infancy for me!

[mike837go]

Then start small.
Hook up a 12V LED just to see if the auxiliary alternator works.