One option you might want to try is to install an adjustable regulator
in the existing alternator.
See:  http://www.linkline.com/personal/dbarton/AdjustableVoltage.html

The site says Volvo - but read down and you will see they fit VW
alternators as well.
I have one, but have not yet installed it on my Van.

Todd
'88 Westy

Phil S. wrote:

>i read in the archives that Optima does NOT recommend
>anything less than a 15 volt alternator output, if
>this is true, then we are all undercharging our
>optimas becouse the vanagon's Alt charges around
>13-14V. Even MORE confusing is that the battery guy
>told me any charge over 14.5 volts will destroy 12v
>batterys. Wha?
>Optimas FAQ:http://www.optimabatteries.com/faq.asp#q7
> Would a LARGER alt help, or does the alt's voltage
>regulator get in the way? Please correct my figures
>as i am also repeating what the battery guy told me.
>
>Also My alternator is charging around 12.7v under
>load...the battree guy tells me i should be around
>13-13.5(tested with stereo/headlights on at 2000RPM's)
>He says my Alt is too weak, especially when i have the
>stereo on, fan, headlights and auxillary battery
>connected via a big relay switch. Apparently all this
>stuff is hogging precious juice from my batterys. He
>told me a bigger alternator would fix my problem. So
>anyone know where i can buy a larger amp alternator
>that might fit the Tiico bracket/pulleys? i found this
>alternator described as being higher output, at lower
>RPM's it at:
>http://www.amplepower.com/products/alt/index.html
>its chromed and looks ex$pen$ive.
>
>
>Thanks
>Phil 84' Westy w/ Tiico
>
>
>
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