Another useful post for me to save in my electrical folder.

Eric

> On Jul 14, 2021, at 3:01 PM, David Beierl <dbeierl@GMAIL.COM> wrote:
>
> ---------- Forwarded message ---------
> From: David Beierl <dbeierl@attglobal.net>
> Date: Wed, Jul 14, 2021 at 2:59 PM
> Subject: Re: Can I Set 13.6 volts at the Alternator?
> To: Derek Drew <derekdrew@derekmail.com>
> Cc: vanagonlist a <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
>
>
> Then I wondered if such a high voltage would actually hurt anything
>> in the van.
>>
>
> The nominal charging voltage of the OE voltage regulator is 14.1V at the
> alternator.  13.6V is not sufficient to fully charge most batteries (and
> the normal automotive electrical system is not designed to charge batteries
> but only to maintain an existing charge). 13.6V at the battery is what
> you'd use to "float" most batteries -- keep them charged but not charge
> them.  To fully charge usually requires 14.5V or more (all voltages at
> 85F).  But once fully charged the battery should be floated at a lower
> voltage.
>
> Automotive appliances in general are designed to run over a nominal range
> of about 11-14V.
>
> Yrs,
> d