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Son_of_Norway's avatar
Jan 31, 2021

Alternators and Lithium Batteries

I like to boondock. I currently have 4 AGM batteries for a total of about 480 amp-hours, of course only about 200 useable. I would like to purchase some lithium batteries and put together a system of 400-500 amp-hours, about the same capacity.

One thing that is holding me back is what will happen that morning when I drive away from camp with depleted batteries and all the charging load goes on my alternator. It is a Lestek dual-output rated at about 130 amps. It puts out a constant voltage around 14.1 volts.

I've seen videos of fried alternators. Can my alternator handle that load, or would I need to add some kind of temperature and voltage regulated system and/or a regulated DC-DC charger?

Thanks for your wisdom.

14 Replies

  • steveh27 wrote:
    My alternator cable to the house batts has to go through a battery isolator and then two 40 amp breakers.

    Most DC-DC chargers are also isolators.
  • My alternator cable to the house batts has to go through a battery isolator and then two 40 amp breakers. That would seem to limit the risk.
  • From a U.S. hospital room...

    Lestek, put out a good aftermarket product. One stator 2 complete rectifiers.

    Enjoy it as is.
  • Hi,

    A dc to DC charging device would protect the alternator. For a quality device, look at Victron or Outback.

    I'm moving to SiO2 batteries myself. They can be used when there is snow on the ground, unlike most LI chemistries and are about 1/2 the price of LI.

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