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Alexander Bilan wrote in a message to Bruce Legrande:
 AB> Your run of the mill GM 10SI unit charges at aprox 1200rpm.
 AB> AC Delco parts sells an alternator which is designed for low rpm
 AB> use, its output starts at about 1000 rpm.
 AB> You won't find anything that puts out anything substantial below
 AB> 1000rpm. 
I'm looking at a 100A GM single-wire rebuilt unit (for $120), that is 
supposed to have a "current monitoring" built-in regulator that is advertised 
to charge whenever it's needed.  I'll have to throw those RPM speeds at them 
and see if they know what I'm referring to.  The idle speed of the engine is 
675, and I'm sure I could probably bring that up to 700 without any problems. 
 But according to what you state (above), I'll still have to raise it a bit 
more.  I wonder if there's any way to automatically raise the engine RPM (via 
throttle) when the alt' senses that it needs to charge, and then lowers the 
RPM again when charging is done.
 AB> What will be turning this alternator? And if its automotive use,
 AB> you should look into a dual batter setup to drive your accessories
 AB> if your pushing the limits of things.
1970 Jeep Wagoneer V8-350 (Buick Engine)
I've already considered the dual battery config, and plan on doing that when 
finances allow.  Those 'new' Optima SpiralCore batteries look good for 
placing one on each side of the cargo area (inside) just behind the 
wheelwells.
Well, lets see...  There'll be my Amateur Radio gear (VHF/HF) which will draw 
about 8 amps in receive and 25-30 in transmit.  Then the stereo and amp, add 
another 10-12 amps there.  Add things like the laptop, driving lights, etc... 
and I think we can easily see a minimum of 30 amps to a maximum of over 60 
total (including ignition).  Does that sound realistic to you ?
 AB> This regulator is good for upto 100 amps, and if the parts guy is
 AB> having difficulty locating it, its a marine part.
I've thought about using marine parts, and I figure that the RPM speed might 
be a bit lower on them (or do I have that backwards ?), requiring less speed 
in order to produce the rated charging level.
Thanks for your reply.
Bruce - kb6lwn - ck1@pacbell.net
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