davew wrote:
Here's my 1/2 cent.
I really do not think you need such high amperage alternators in a locost. I installed a lighter wt, smaller amp alternator, [43-45amp]. I'm using an under drive alt pulley and under drive engine crank pulley, and even with an electric rad fan, it's not even near max'ing out the alternator when run other accessories.
This has to be assessed on a case by case basis. For a carbureted Locost with a mechanical fuel pump and fan, I agree that it's more than enough. For an EFI car, most likely not, especially if you have anything other than the bare minimum:
Cooling fan: 20-30 amps
Lights: 10 amps (assuming non-LED)
Water pump: 8-12A
Fuel pump: 15A
ECU/coils: 10A
Worse case it's night and stop-and-go traffic, so all the above may be on. With the alternator at idle, it isn't putting out anywhere near its advertised current.
_________________
Midlana book: Build this mid-engine Locost!,
http://midlana.com/stuff/book/Kimini book: Designing mid-engine cars using FWD drivetrains
Both available from
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