Is a Valeo A13N Alternator battery energized ?

[john0740]

Hi
Can anyone advise whether a "Valeo A13N 234" 14V 60A alternator (as fitted to a Volvo engine) is battery energised.?

That is to say, does it need a 12V feed from the battery to start-up, or does it get its start-up feed from the warning lamp circuit? Question arises if a split-charge device were to be installed.
Thanks

 

[Billjratt]

Alternators need a little current from the battery to kick-start the magnetic field. They normally get it through the ignition lamp, although some have a relay. If you have an ignition lamp, it's likely to be the source (try starting it with the lamp disconnected to prove)
No idea what your split charge device is going to consist of, but there must be a live wire somewhere in the circuit or the engine won't start.

 

[gavin_lacey]

My 2004 volvo 2030 is fitted with a battery sensing alternator and split charge diode. the battery sensing wire is led from the house battery bank. I did wonder if this could lead to the engine battery being overcharged but I have never had a problem with it gassing. NB At a boat show I was told that the improvement to be gained by fitting a smart alternator regulator would be marginal. Gains only being substantial with conventional alternators.