<blockquote><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial">quote:</font><hr>Originally posted by mrbassman:
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I agree, if the alternator is forced to exceed its rated output in amps, the voltage will drop. It has no choice, however, up to that point, it will remain at 12v
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until the peak rating of the alternator is reached then any increase in amps and power will pull the 12 volts down
Bob<hr></blockquote>
My point exactly. At an engine idle speed of 500 rpm the rated output capability of the alternator is only 28% of it's maximum rating. So if the load at idle is more than 30 amps the alternator voltage will drop & the lights dim, etc. It will however, reach full rated output of 110 amps at around 2000 rpm. Assuming a 2.5/1 pulley ratio. This is what Alec was saying in so many words. Output is not proportional to speed.
D