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Upgraded Alternator for camper system?

Discussion in '2.5 Gen TRD Pro (2014-2021)' started by SpottedDog, Jun 1, 2024.

  1. Jun 1, 2024 at 6:48 AM
    #1
    SpottedDog

    SpottedDog [OP] New Member

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    G
    Moab, UT
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    2017 TRD OR
    Old Man Emu heavy 285/75R18 Toyo AT3’s
    My truck is also my office and seasonal housing. I’m field biologist and spend months on the road and living out of my rig and OVRLND camper.
    It’s setup with 200w of solar, 2000w inverter and 200ah LiPo batteries. All Renogy.
    When I’m running down the road and the ‘house’ system is charging off the alternator, my starting battery hovers at 13.1v.
    When it’s only charging via solar the starting battery is between 13.6-8.

    I’m wondering if I’m stressing my 2017 5.7’s w/ tow package charging system. Would I benefit from a higher power alternator from Tuscon Alternator or other company?
    Are they any dangers to my trucks overall health by using or not using a higher powered alternator?
     
  2. Jun 5, 2024 at 2:49 PM
    #2
    Redline870

    Redline870 New Member

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  3. Jun 5, 2024 at 3:19 PM
    #3
    SD Surfer

    SD Surfer Globe Trotting Bon Vivant

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    What about a DC to DC charger? (One with solar input of course)

    Truck system isn't really set up for the optimum charge profile of your Lithium's even if you upgrade the alternator.

    Renogy's okay (I have a Renogy suitcase) but you can get Victron for not much more money, much better.
     
  4. Jun 5, 2024 at 3:24 PM
    #4
    Retired...finally

    Retired...finally Utilizing that doctorate of procrastinatory arts

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    Custom bug spat pattern hood, grill & bumper. Dead Live Oak leaf collection under hood, cowl and lower fenders. Beach sand custom floor covering.
    Where are you measuring the voltage? You might need to stop after driving a while and pop the hood and check it at the battery with the engine running with no additional loads like lights, AC radio etc. If by chance that 13.1 is with the engine off you're doing fine. After sitting a few hours 12.8 is normal engine off. Sitting a day will be 12.6VDC.
     

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