Ford F-550

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Jun 28, 2005 | 01:47 PM

victorynhellboy

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From: Temple,Texas

Ford F-550

My 2003-2004 F-550 Wont charge at idle truck has been converted to a Armored Bus and had a rear a/c unit added to it but it is killing the batteries can a ecm be replaced or does it need dual alternators I have 2 of each with 6.0 turbo engines

Last edited by victorynhellboy; Jun 28, 2005 at 01:54 PM.

Jun 28, 2005 | 01:53 PM

IB Tim

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Jun 28, 2005 | 02:09 PM

dsweger

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You should be able to add and "Auxiliary Idle Control" unit which is available from Ford. Use the "Voltage Protect Mode" and when you are in PARK, AND with the PARKING Brake set, it will increase the idle RPM's as needed to maintain battery voltage. This feature is used in ambulance and fire truck packages to help maintain battery charge while the vehicle is parked at a scene, etc.

Now, if your alternator cannot produce enough amps even at max capacity, then you may still need to go with a dual alternator setup.

Jun 28, 2005 | 05:49 PM

wolffee

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From: Fort. Lauderdale FL,

You may need to go to a larger alternator. I am not 100% but i thought it was talked about a long long time ago that you could not ADD another alternator. I didnt think it was ofered as an upgrade from the dealer. I could have swarne(sp?) that it was a fcatory install only...

ryan

Jun 28, 2005 | 06:27 PM

dsweger

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I honestly don't know if you can add a second alternator or not.

There are companies that provide special wound alternators for Fire service applications, that produce higher current at lower RPMs.

Jun 28, 2005 | 07:59 PM

me1mckee

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From: TEXAS

There are infinite ways to make more power, you can go as far as to run a generator off of a PTO if you need the power while the truck is sitting. The AIC that FMC sells is good for the Charge Protect mode, it only speeds up the engine when the batteries need the extra charge. If your alternator can make the power you need and only need to speed up the engine and are willing to flip a switch when you are stopped to speed it up until you turn off the engine, then look in the "Tech folder" in this forum and you will find a thread called "Idle Control". In it you will find the info you need to install a very simple switch that will set the engine RPM's to 1200 when you are parked and turn on the switch. Don't worry, if you touch the brake to put it in gear, it will go to idle so you can't accidentally drive down the road and not be able to idle. I know it's simple, I wrote the part for the 03-04's and put it on my truck, less than 10 bucks if you buy a nice lighted switch and a new set of crimpers and wire and connectors. Good luck on whatever you decide. The AIC is expensive, but plugs right in and is ready to go with a little programming to fit your desires.

Jun 28, 2005 | 08:00 PM

me1mckee

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From: TEXAS

You could also get a heavier alternator and then add overdrive pulleys to speed it up, but it would really zing when you are hammerin down the road at 3000 RPM's.