Output of Stock Alternator

yeah, ive got the tow package, so i guess i should be ok.... as long as i dont try to bump my sub too much with the lights on

 

Just get a bigger battery. My small Optima Red Top has something like 900CCA. That'll be more than enough for the cab AC, and then the alt will just maintain it once the AC drops down to normal running amperage.

New battery will be MUCH cheaper than a larger alt, possible custom mounting required, etc. Besides, if my calculations are correct, the AC would draw 91.6amps @ 12v or 84amps @ 13v (where my truck usually registers). That would be fine for the battery/alt to handle. But you are right about a bigger alt IF he wants to run ALL 6 lights and the AC for any length of time.

So I guess the questions are:

1. How much do you want to spend on this?
2. Will you be offroading or whatever with all 6 extra lights AND the AC on?

 

My truck's got a hitch, but I don't know for sure if it's original, or if it was sold as part of a tow package (I'm the 3rd owner). Any tips on how to figure out the rating of my alternator? I'd like to keep the inverter small enough that I can max it out with the engine running, and not deplete my battery or overload the alt'r.

I'd also be interested in the rating of the smaller "base" alt'rs, if anyone knows it.

Please don't tell me just to get a bigger battery.

 

Yeah, I'm hoping to confirm that mine is a "tow package" vehicle, and not just an aftermarket hitch. I tried looking for a part # on the alternator, but couldn't see anything.

I'm also wondering what kind of wattage the ignition system pulls down, since that would have to be subtracted, as well as headlights, etc. I'm leaning toward a 750, based on what others have done without problems.

 

This thread hasn't been touched for a while but I'm hoping for some insight on my power issues.

I have an 06 AC V6 w/ the tow package. I'm running a JL 300/4 for my door speakers and a 500/1 for my sub. I've upgraded my battery to a yellow top Optima, upgrade The wiring running from my battery to one gauge (Big 3 upgrade) and installed an inline Kynetik capacitor (HC600). Headlights are still dimming under heavy audio conditions..

Is an upgraded alternator the answer?? Thanks for the advise.

Kris

 

Yeah for about 1/16 second.