dual alternators
I see Superduties have dual alternators listed as an option. Anyone have this setup? Do you like it? And how are the loads separated? Thanks.
Forum Discussion
jimh425 wrote:
I've read more about this Rapid Heat option. Based on what I've read over at Ford-trucks.com, it's kind of interesting that it comes on automatically, and there aren't any switches to flip.
While the supplemental heat does come on automatically, if you have the the higher end heater(Lariat and above trim level), you do have some control over how long the supplemental heat stays on via the climate control thermostat.
When I start my truck, I crank up the thermostat as high as it goes, which is 90*. This insures that the supplemental heat stays on until the engine warms up enough for the regular heater to take over.
If you turn the thermostat to the lowest setting( don't remember what that is, 50* or so), the supplemental heat will turn off sooner.
Those that have only the single heavy duty 200 amp alternator have found that the supplemental heat doesn't work as well if you have a lot of additional loads such as seat heaters, head lights, etc. turned on at start up.The electrical load to the supplemental heat will be cut down to match what the alternator can put out.
With dual alternators, there is less chance of that happening.
