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Is an alternator's mechanical load relative to current draw?

Discussion in 'Technical Chat' started by soggyBottom, Dec 16, 2018.

  1. Dec 16, 2018 at 9:37 AM
    #1
    soggyBottom

    soggyBottom [OP] Well-Known Member

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    As the title says, is it? Assuming it is,

    Would a 100amp alternator then have similar mechanical load to a 50amp one assuming the actual load is under 50 amps?

    Please support answers with references if you have them. Bonus points if you use math.
     
  2. Dec 16, 2018 at 12:09 PM
    #2
    destin_meeks

    destin_meeks I used to fix people's crappy stereos

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    soggyBottom[OP] and Wyoming09 like this.
  3. Dec 16, 2018 at 1:20 PM
    #3
    Troyken

    Troyken Well-Known Member

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    Yes , higher electrical loads demand more horsepower from the engine. A 100 amp alternator can supply that 100 amps but if you never draw it the engine won't have to supply the mechanical energy to drive it. That's why you notice the engine bog down when jumping a dead battery in another vehicle or running a winch for example. You should verify that the related cabling can handle 100 amps. My cables look mighty small for 12 volts and I have the factory tow package. That has a bigger alternator and battery. You know Toyota engineering, everything seems to be just big enough to meet the specs.
     
  4. Dec 16, 2018 at 8:17 PM
    #4
    soggyBottom

    soggyBottom [OP] Well-Known Member

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