Installing an alternator alongside dynastarter

[vistech1]

Hi all

I hoping to get some help with installing an alternator on my Arona 185 single cylinder Diesel
The dynastarter has stopped charging but still starts the engine, I realise there are a lot of variables to adding an alternator to the system but my initial question is if the dynastarter is a 32 amp unit does that mean I need to install a similar rated alternator? I would appreciate any other advice anyone has
Thanks, Trash

[Viking Sailor]

There are three main issues that you will need to deal when adding a alternator to your engine.

First -- you will need spare Horse Power from your one cylinder engine. It take about 1 HP to generate 60 amps at 12 volts. This HP is in addition to what you need to propel your vessel.

Second -- alternators need to be spun at around 5000 rpm to operate. Thus, you will require a pulley, belt, and mounting solution that will run the alternator at the correct rpm.

Third -- you will need to reconfigure your electrical system to provide and control the field voltage needed to power the alternator.

I think you would be better off taking to starter/generator to an auto-electric shop and having it fixed.

Best of luck,

Paul

[bletso]

I'll bet that is one cool engine to listen to whilst running!

[DeepFrz]

I think the hardest part will be the actual mounting of the alternator. A good automotive alternator will probably fill your needs, considering what you are replacing, if you can find a mounting solution. You will get max. output at about 5,000 alternator rpm however you should get at least 30 amps out of almost any 60 amp. alternator at around 1,500 - 2,000 rpm.

[Blue Stocking]

This doesn't answer your question, but if the starter function still works, the problem may be in the charge regulator. Not a difficult job. IIRC, had this problem with my VIRE 6 hp in the 70s.

[vistech1]

Originally Posted by bletso

I'll bet that is one cool engine to listen to whilst running!

yes it's an exciting event on every startup. It will be a sad day when it goes belly up.

[vistech1]

Originally Posted by DeepFrz

I think the hardest part will be the actual mounting of the alternator. A good automotive alternator will probably fill your needs, considering what you are replacing, if you can find a mounting solution. You will get max. output at about 5,000 alternator rpm however you should get at least 30 amps out of almost any 60 amp. alternator at around 1,500 - 2,000 rpm.

thanks for that yes I think room for mounting will be an issue.

[vistech1]

Originally Posted by Blue Stocking

This doesn't answer your question, but if the starter function still works, the problem may be in the charge regulator. Not a difficult job. IIRC, had this problem with my VIRE 6 hp in the 70s.

thanks do you mean an internal regulator within the unit or the external regulator? There are no volts coming directly off the dynastarter.