Charging batteries with the engine

Redram99 wrote:
Just curious, what is the output of the alternator vs the standard converter?

It seems to charge the house batteries off the engine alternator very quickly.
Would that be nearly as economical as running a 4000 Onan?

Thanks.

typically the alternator will have more amps and more volts. But it has the chassis to run and the wire to the house battery can be long and restrictive.

If the house battery seems to charge fast on the alternator you should be in good shape with the system working as designed. However it may just seem fast because the converter is slow. Many or most converters charge at a 13.6 trickle voltage and take 8 to 24 hours to fully charge a low battery.

Alternator will always win on efficiency while in motion. While at camp the Onan should be better but depends on the converter supplying the proper voltage.

Post the converter model number for best suggestions.