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Old 18-08-2010, 07:41   #1
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Alternator and Generator

Are most modern boats wired so you can run the genarator/AC to cool down the cabins while motoring. I think that the generator w/120 amp charger could be damaging the alternator when both the generator and alternator are on. What do you think???

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Old 18-08-2010, 08:23   #2
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Generators for powering air conditioners generally produce alternating current (AC). They don't charge the batteries unless you have a battery charger connected and turned on, thus producing the direct current (DC) current needed to charge the batteries.

Unless you turn on the battery charger while the generator is running, there'd be no conflict with the engine-powered alternator.

And, in any case, there'd likely be no damage.

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Old 18-08-2010, 08:35   #3
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we have a gen set and AC. We also have a washer dryer onboard. We have not used the gen set and AC while motoring but have used the gen set and the washer dryer while motoring without any apparent problems
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Old 19-08-2010, 14:50   #4
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Running more than one battery charger, or a charger plus engine alternator, will not damage anything. Each charger/regulator scales back it's output as the batteries charge based on it's internal settings. Two charging sources will simply supply the aggregate of their output to the batteries. When the battery voltage rises to the predetermined level, each charger/regulator will scale back it's output.

With that said, most OEM engine alternators don't include a smart regulator, they simply hold the batteries at 14.2-14.4 volts the whole time they are operating. Even with these, a smart shorepower charger will not hurt anything (or get hurt).
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Old 19-08-2010, 15:21   #5
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When the admiral sweats we turn on the air, fire that little NL genset up and let the cool breezes flow. Especially good in "the ditch" when there isn't a breeze. Happy Wife, Happy Life!
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