Re: Answer to Howard's question

Posted by Owen_Dyneto On 2011/12/2 9:34:57

Assuming the battery is healthy and the regulating system is functioning correctly, a generator or alternator puts out an amount more-or-less equal to the load applied (pre-1936 cars with 3rd brush generators excepted). The maximum draw of original equipment would have been more than adequately covered by the capacity of the original generator. So unless you're adding some very energy-intensive accessory items the only time an alternator would provide better service (brighter lights, etc.) would be at an idle with a large drain because alternator output at very low engine speeds (essentially, at idle) would be higher than a generator.