Dual alternator as a generator

Hodag1 wrote:
I have a 2011 F350 6.7 diesel with dual alternators. Has anyone on this forum done this? Is there a source of premade cables and ancillary hardware to accomplish this?

I don't have a F350, but I do have a high output DC Power alternator in my RAM that is wired to the batteries in my TC with 2Ga cable. I regularly see 100+A charge current @ 14.7V from truck to camper when I drive or engage high idle (1100 motor RPMs)... so that's ~1.5kW with just one alternator. It seems reasonable enough, with a big budget, the right alternators, wiring, inverter, and a load to operate... that you could have yourself a 3.7kW "generator".

The real benefit of a high current (and/or dual) alternator set up is the ability to re-charge a large house battery bank very quickly while driving. Personally, I wouldn't choose to use my truck as a stationary "generator" on a daily basis, though I'd certainly high-idle the engine long enough to cook dinner in the microwave if I ever needed to.

With regard to the hardware you need to make it work;
- You will need a way to isolate the truck and camper electrical systems... You can use a simple high current solenoid or manual disconnect switch, or you can choose a battery isolator like the ones manufactured by Hellroaring. I went the manual disconnect route:


- There are several online businesses that will make custom cables for you, for example; Custom Battery Cables and 2X Power... but you can also go to a local reputable welding supply shop to get them made up.

- Assuming you intend to remove the TC from your truck from time to time, you'll also need a connector that is rated for the amount of current you plan to pass through it. Anderson PowerPole connectors are popular with TC owners, but I chose to use a 200A "lift gate connector":


- And finally, don't forget to install some circuit protection on each end of the cabling. VTE is a good source for fuses, fuse holders, and cable boots.

Cheers,
-Mark