alternator modifications

[nedmin]

with some 3 phase motors the 6 wire ends are brought out to the connector block, and if starting heavy loads the motor is started in star and switched either automatically or by hand to delta connection the reason being there is more resistance across a star connection,so limiting the current, once up to speed delta is used.Suggesting that if your alternator is star connected if you can put to delta you should increase the output.BUT will it overheat? thats another question.As suggested I would look at altering pulley sizes, the prob. there is if you go smaller on the smallest you may get belt slip.

 

[fishermantwo]

[ QUOTE ]
(My engine revs at around 1000 and I've a 2 : 1 pulley ratio that can't be changed)

[/ QUOTE ]

The main engine in my fishing vessel is a Gardner and I use 1000rpm as my normal fast cruising speed, flat out at 1200rpm. I use a Ford Falcon 6 cylinder Bosch alternator. This is driven from the front of the engine by a large pulley to the standard alternator pulley and the unit rotates at about 5 or 6 thousand revs at cruising speed. I would suggest either a layshaft arrangement to get the rpm up or change to an alternator off a slow revving car like an early V8. Bosch seem to be the easiest to work with. .

 

[Joe]

Here is the link to thier webbie
Good people and will help you if they can
http://www.dg2k.co.uk/

Joe

 

[lw395]

You can measure how hard an laternator is being worked by measuring the (average) voltage across the brushes. If the regulator is trying for more power, it will be perhaps a volt less than output voltage.
A smart regulator may help if the standard one is not driving the rotor hard enough, but if the field current/voltage is pretty near maximum, then the windings/rotor speed are the limitation. Not familiar with any alternators that can be delta'd, but then I learned on motorbikes!
Cheers!
Chris