An Electrical Query
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Joined: Oct 2004
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From: Fairbanks, Alaska
An Electrical Query
This may sound like a simple question, but I am considering going to a larger alternator to run additional lights, and my question is if I get too large an alternator, will it harm any of the components of the vehicle such as computer gizmos or power features like power windows, doors, keyless entry, etc.
My 2004 Excursion has either a 115 or 130 amp alternator and I want to run some LightForce lights so I may go to a bigger output alternator. But I don't want to burn anything up.
Where does excess electricity the alternator produces go?
My 2004 Excursion has either a 115 or 130 amp alternator and I want to run some LightForce lights so I may go to a bigger output alternator. But I don't want to burn anything up.
Where does excess electricity the alternator produces go?
Last edited by heavnbound; Nov 27, 2004 at 12:21 PM.
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The alternator never produces excess electricity, unless something is wrong with it. It has a regulator, either built-in, or seperately mounted. The regulator monitors the truck's electrical system voltage, and tries to keep it steady. The regulator varies the voltage to the field, which varies it's magnetic strength. More or less magnetism in the alt means more or less output. You should be ok, but I would upgrade the output wire from your new alternator to a bigger size, and also you might possibly put another small fuse panel under the hood to feed your lighting relays. Your lighting should come with relays to switch the heavy load of the lights.
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Elder User
Joined: Oct 2004
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From: Fairbanks, Alaska
Thanks for the info Franklin2, It's put me more at ease about the bigger alternator. The install will be professionally done so I'm not worried about the wiring, relays, etc. Just didn't want to mess up anything else.
Still not sure an alternator upgrade is going to be necessary but if so, then your info will make it a lot less confusing.
Still not sure an alternator upgrade is going to be necessary but if so, then your info will make it a lot less confusing.
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