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Topic: Alternator alternatives (Read 2709 times) previous topic - next topic

Re: Alternator alternatives

Reply #20 –
A partially loaded generator will console about .5 gph. At 60 mph, that's about .5 mpg extra. The reality is it will take the same amount of power to spin that alternator. You aren't saving anything... If anything, the gennie is more efficient.

Re: Alternator alternatives

Reply #21 –
So my thoughts of windmills on top of the coach, or wheels on generator shafts rubbing on the tires won't work?  Sure seemed like a good idea when I was a little kid.  Just a big kid now.

Today we had all the windows tinted, including those huge front sloping Grand Villa's.  Hope that now we can do without the generator running the roof ac's.  The tint stops 92% of the IR, and 99.9 of the UV, and we could tell as soon as we headed west at 4:30.  Tint link:  Houston Car Tint, Auto Tinting, Car Window Tinting Houston, Car Window Tint,

Re: Alternator alternatives

Reply #22 –
Memory: Most diesel generators consume about 0.4 gal of fuel per hour, and that's running both roof-top airs. I don't consider that system to be "fuel guzzling".

Re: Alternator alternatives

Reply #23 –
Was there ever an LP gas powered ammonia absorber type rooftop AC for RVs?... That would be too perfect huh?

Scott

Re: Alternator alternatives

Reply #24 –
My coach has an external adjustable Voltage Regulator, Hehr Power Systems 10-170, HPS 10-170. I would like to take credit for having this device and to show my broad base of knowledge of 12V systems but I can't. This was installed by the previous owner whom I believe to have been very sharp in this area. It has worked very well for me so far.

It looks to me like a good alternative to those mentioned and is adjustable. Any comments about this system would be very much appreciated since I know so little about them.

Re: Alternator alternatives

Reply #25 –
Quote from: MemoryRoads –
Has or 'is' anyone running an alternator large enough to power 1 roof top air conditioner-- rather than using the fuel guzzling diesel generator?  there are some 275 amp Alternators, (large case) models with I think... the ability for external regulators that might do the job.

I did run across an installation of a high output alternator to run roof airs way back when.  They had two on the motor if I remember.  Gen's were not as efficient as now.  Propane onan used a gallon an hour.  3500 or 5k watts is a memory.