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Combining the output of two alternators

Combining the output of two alternators

Combining the output of two alternators

(OP)
Hi,
What are the challenges of combining the output of two alternators, running at different speeds, to charge one 12V battery?

In particular, one or other alternator could be stationary while the other is rotating. I don't really see how this is different to a single alternator charging a battery, if the alternator is too slow or stationary the regulator diodes prevent current flowing back from the battery into the alternator. But I've learned to be wary of such simplistic observations...

Thanks, Ian

RE: Combining the output of two alternators

It shouldn't pose any problem. Every time a vehicle is parked the diodes isolate the alternator windings from the battery and it won't change even when you add another alternator.

RE: Combining the output of two alternators

That Ample Power regulator will work, if both alternators have external regulators, both of which it replaces. ... and the Ample Power regulator then becomes a single point of failure.

I wouldn't install it on a boat. There are other ways of getting a tach signal than from the alternator regulator circuit, and boats have enough single points of failure already.




Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA

RE: Combining the output of two alternators

(OP)
Thanks for the info. It's not a problem if one alternator does all the work, so that combining regulator would be unnecessary.

Regards, Ian

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