Generally, does a factory alternator run everything you need on an adventure? Just wondering where to begin on building an OL vehicle. I have a Nissan Frontier and just need to know what changes most people make. Then I started thinking about power for lighting and coolers, etc. I welcome everyone's experience and thoughts.
What is you experience on alternators and batteries? Generally, does a factory alternator run everything you need on an adventure?
- Thread starter mgp
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I have/am using the factory alternator for my truck. My main battery supplies power to my aftermarket stereo system and interior components and 12v accessories and lighting. My main battery also feeds to a secondary engine bay battery for powering auxiliary ditch lights and communication devices. For now, I haven't felt the need to upgrade my alternator. For my refrigerator and other accessories for camping, I have a separate Jackery 500 generator. Plus, I have a solar panel and 3rd solar supported battery.
I guess you might want to give a run down on what your power requirements are and someone could chime in with more specific recommendations for what you're trying to build out?
I guess you might want to give a run down on what your power requirements are and someone could chime in with more specific recommendations for what you're trying to build out?
Off-Road Ranger I
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My alternator charges both the main engine battery and the 100 ah house battery with no issues. The engine battery powers everything to do with the vehicle. The house battery powers anything to do with camping like the fridge, lighting, heaters, fans, etc.
My stock alt ran my aftermarket stereo, amp for sub, Piaa lights and winch. It took a dump after 160k and so I upgraded.
If you are adding things like fridge or external lighting you plan to use during OL while the motor is off then you want to look at a second battery setup, they can 100% be run solely off your stock alt or like above you can add a DC -DC converter that will take the input of a solar setup to charge during the days your parked.
If you are adding things like fridge or external lighting you plan to use during OL while the motor is off then you want to look at a second battery setup, they can 100% be run solely off your stock alt or like above you can add a DC -DC converter that will take the input of a solar setup to charge during the days your parked.
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Drmiller100
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Pretty much all stock alternators today are north of 100 amp. That is a bunch and more than enough to charge batteries faster than they want to be charged. A 100ah lead acid battery is going to take 4 hours minimum to charge if it is pulled down a lot. The first hour can br the alternator then solar can top them off.
