Installing a Second Alternator
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Senior User
Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 372
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From: Dayton, OH
Installing a Second Alternator
I am now realizing my mistake in not buying the dual alternator option on my PSD. I have a 38' Fifth wheel camper that is vehicle dependant for charging the batteries. I've noticed that when the trailer is charging, as I'm driving, the amp meter starts pushing into the red until the charge is complete (3-5 Hours!). The trailer checks out fine and so does the truck. I'm trying to avoid having a generator running in the truck bed while I'm driving. There is a generator on the trailer but if it is used for anything extra other than running the AC it causes a lot of vibration to the trailer and is extremely loud. My question is: Other than installing the second alternator is there any details that I'm needing if I do it myself?
Senior User
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 270
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From: Okinawa Japan
Installing a Second Alternator
Have you thought about getting a high output alt? There are a few of the guys around here that have them or at least they have talked about the amount of charging.
Posting Guru
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 1,067
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From: Fairbanks Alaska
Installing a Second Alternator
If you run a high output alternator and hardly have a use for it it can start to fry cables and hurt battery life. A moderate increase in power is always good. On my 150 I have 8 driving lights alone that consume about 70 amps + what the truck needs. I put in a 130 alternator (stock was 95 I think). And I run a red and yellow top Optimas. I do not need that much power all the time so the batteries make up when the alternator can't make enough and I never overpower the rest of my electrical system.
Tyler
95 F150 302 5 speed
94 F-250 PSD 5 speed 251,000+ and running strong
Tyler
95 F150 302 5 speed
94 F-250 PSD 5 speed 251,000+ and running strong
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