I need more Power - Alternator

Hi Guys,

I have a dual battery system (National Luna) installed and I just bought two new batteries; one 102 amp high cycle and 1 x 100A deep cycle. I always thought that the system was a bit dodgy and it seems that I do not get enough power from the standard alternator. Now with the new batteries I have monitored the system and the following seems to happen: When I start the v8 the volts on the monitor drops with about 2 orange lights. It takes a while to get back up to all the orange lights on. The charge lights (green) only lights up one (about 12.4v) and only sometimes two (12.6V). After about 5 minutes the solenoid kicks in and the aux battery gets its charge, but only one green light (12.4V). It runs for a while and then it kicks back to the primary battery. The same system in a friend's car charges at full green (over 13V) on both. It looks like my alternator does not supply enough power?

I have scanned through the forum, but could not really find any clear solution. Is there an aftermarket alternator that I can fit to the 3.5 V8? can I fit another (2nd) alternator?

Best Regards
Jean
(Gadget Junkie that needs PLENTY of AMPS!)
Regards

Jeanv
1993 110 V8

:welcome2: Jean.

First off, have you checked that your earths are good? If they aren't you will be losing most of your charge trying to overcome the poor connections.

This is a common problem regarding poor charging, as it is not the equipment at fault ... just insufficient earthing!

Hope this helps.

Correct charging means between 13.8-14.4V, anything less means you have a fault (as already stated, check the earthing first).
Many people assume that because they are getting over 12V with the engine running everything is ok but unfortunately that is not the case and even 13V means you have a fault somewhere.

I Installed a 75A Bosch Alternator and charging at 13.6V. I will check the wiring this weekend...

13.6 is not good!!

Check your earths!!!