On Sat, Sep 5, 2009 at 10:42 AM, Kim Brennan <kimbrennan@mac.com> wrote:

> It is probably folly to idle the engine expecting the alternator to
> charge the batteries. I don't know what the idle speed is on the
> zetec, but most engines are turning slowly enough that the alternator
> is putting out minimum amps. In otherwords, just enough to keep the
> engine running, but not enough to charge the battery.
>

This isn't true on my rig. I've been parked for 3 days and the kitchen panel
light going into
amber for "battery" level running everything it does, and when idling the
engine for 20-30
minutes that light returns to green WHILE THE FRIDGE/RADIO ARE RUNNING, and
after
another day the amber light level returns, while the fridge/radio are
running. Idle is at 600rpm.

I'm using the UB12220 wheel chair batteries (4) set up and have no
electrical level monitoring
gauges to actually tell me any specific information. I have a '90 Subaru 2.2
motor with an SVX
alternator (95 amp) in the system. I also have the 1315 separator in my main
battery box.
Vitrifrigo fridge.

Bob Stevens
'87 Syncro Westy