I'll test mine when I get it wired up. Anyone already tested this on their small outboard with alternator? Tohatsu specs don't say anything about engine speed vs. alternator output. Alternators generally put out near rated power once they're a bit above idle RPMs. On cars anyhow; no reason I know of it would be different on boat motors. It's generators (like on that VW van I had :-) where the output is more linearly tied to engine speed. More RPMs = higher output. Not the case for most alternators, except at idle RPMs. cheers, John S. On 09/18/2015 11:59 AM, Dave Scobie wrote:
the alternators put out little power at the RPMs needed for our boats to go a good cruising speed. the 4HP Suzuki on my M17 is running at less than 50% to reach cruise speed. the stated alternator output is based on the motor running near full power; as done for power boats running on a plane.
to get specifics need to put an amp-meter on the system to confirm what power is being generated ... and then figure the loss between the alternator and the battery.
-- John Schinnerer - M.A., Whole Systems Design -------------------------------------------- - Eco-Living - Whole Systems Design Services People - Place - Learning - Integration john@eco-living.net - 510.982.1334 http://eco-living.net http://sociocracyconsulting.com