correct me if I am wrong [Archive] - Diesel Place : Chevrolet and GMC Diesel Truck Forums

: correct me if I am wrong


billybobjethro
03-11-2007, 03:46 AM
but an alternator has a given output at a certian RPM (loaded or unlaoded). My reason for this post is that, I am looking at some SVO conversion kits, and they are talking about the alternator taking power away from the engine for the heater, pumps and such for the conversion. I now what a parasitic load is ie water pump, alternator, a/c compressor. But isn't the load on an alternator constant?? Any ideas????

Thanx B

_MJB_
03-11-2007, 08:41 PM
The load that the alternator draws is directly proportional to the amount of current it is required to supply. As you add electrical loads to your truck the alternator will require more power from the engine to generate that electricity. No free lunches here.

gmctd
03-11-2007, 09:43 PM
Yes - p'r'aps the mixup is that the ac generator - alternator - will deliver it's rated load at low rpm or high rpm, where the dc generator required high rpm to deliver it's rated load.