ARCO Tech Tips for Alternator Charging Systems ENGINE HORSEPOWER
REQUIRED FOR ALTERNATORS For every 23 AMPS of alternator output
about one horsepower is required. FOR EXAMPLE: A 12 volt,115 AMP
alternator requires 5 horsepower. (115 divided by 23 = 5
horsepower). A 24 volt unit requires twice the horsepower.
ALTERNATORS ARE NOT BATTERY CHARGERS Alternators are designed to
supply current for the accessory load and maintain the charge of
the battery. Most alternators can safely charge at only two-
thirds of their maximum rated output. When trying to recharge a
dead battery, the alternator will charge at maximum output for
extended periods of time causing the alternator to overheat.
High heat destroys transistors, diodes and windings. ONE-WIRE
ALTERNATORS CAN NOT BE USED WITH BATTERY ISOLATORS One-wire
alternators, sometimes referred to as self-exciting alternators,
require battery voltage at the output terminal in order to
charge. Since battery isolators eliminate the battery voltage to
the alternator, you must