Don't recall who it was, but recently someone proposed upgrading to a larger output alternator, perhaps 100 amp instead of the present 35 amp.

That presents some interesting challenges.  To produce 30 amps takes about 1 HP.  Since the YS series Yanmar Diesels are rated at 7 HP continious duty with 8 HP for up to one hour, we don't have a lot of HP to spare.

Then you get into appropriate RPM to produce desired output.

Some thoughts.  (You didn't get this from me)  Since we have diesel fuel and no gasoline on board, we could use automotive alternators.  In this case perhaps Hitachi alternators come in many versions between 35 amp and 100 amp output levels.  If you upgrade a little, you may not need any modifications. If you upgrade a lot,then, perhaps you could arrange a manual controller to allow reduced output and load when full engine HP is needed.  There may even be units designed for this.  You know, that your car may have a device for shutting down your air conditioning under heavy throttle.

Be cautious with really modern alternators.  I have no information, but hear that they are often more involved with onboard computers and stuff like that.  I'd be inclined to hit an automotive junkyard for an older model car.












Steve in San Jose
Dawson 26, "Banana Split"
Hull 270