A smart alternator, also referred to as a variable voltage or ECU controlled charging system, runs at a lower voltage to a traditional alternator and then increases the voltage dramatically when the driver lifts off, this high voltage (around 17VDC) quickly charges the battery.
How does smart alternator work?
The smart alternator system, also known as variable voltage alternators, allow the vehicle to control the output voltage and current from the alternator based on vehicle operating conditions. The idea behind this is to reduce electrical load and in turn mechanical load on the engine by the alternator.
Can you disable a smart alternator?
To remove the smart charge capability, but retain the self-excite functionality, you would need to disconnect the (probably two) wires that run to the PCM. Test the battery voltage with the car off. Then start the car and test the voltage at the battery.
Will a smart alternator charge a dual battery?
A smart alternator, however, “adjusts its output voltage based on the vehicle operating conditions to reduce the electrical load and, in turn, the mechanical load on the engine from the alternator” (Redarc). This means that it won’t be able to charge your second battery.
How do I know if I have a variable voltage smart alternator?
What you are looking for is a module mounted on or close to the battery terminal (usually the battery negative). This is the battery sensor, if it’s got one of these, you have a variable voltage alternator.
Do you need a DCDC charger with a smart alternator?
If you have a smart alternator then you will need to use a Battery-To-Battery charger (also known as a DC-DC charger) to ensure that you can charge your auxiliary battery effectively.
How do I turn off smart charge?
You can disable the smart charging functionality of the ev. energy app at any time by going to your Smart tab and tapping ‘Turn off smart charging” (found at the bottom of the page).
Does the Ford Ranger have a smart alternator?
The Ford Ranger has a ‘Smart’ battery charging system, which only charges the battery to a preset level to maximise efficiency and extend battery life.
How does Ford smart charge work?
The theory behind smart charge, is a battery will take a charges at its most efficient when it’s cold. Following start up, the PCM checks the Engine coolant temp, and intake air temp, and calculates a cold engine. It will then boost the battery charge, pulling it back as it calculates the under bonnet temp coming up.
Does Isuzu D Max have a smart alternator?
Does your DMAX have a smart alternator? There is a lot of confusion about whether or not modern vehicles have a smart alternator. The easiest way to check is to look closely at the earth terminal of the battery.If there is a module connected straight onto the terminal then it mostly is a smart alternator system.
What vehicles have a smart alternator?
Smart alternators are something that’s coming up more and more frequently these days as vehicle manufacturers seek to get their emissions down to meet Euro 5 & 6 regulations. These are commonplace in T6s, Transit customs, Renault Masters and Mercedes Sprinters, amongst most other new vehicles.
Can you use a battery isolator with a smart alternator?
If you have a newer vehicle (about 2015 or newer) with a variable voltage “smart” alternator, an isolator probably won’t work for you. Your auxiliary batteries are lead acid (AGM, gel, flooded lead acid). Most isolators won’t function properly with lithium batteries.
Can you use any alternator on any car?
In most cases nothing except it would work fine. If the two alternators are physically the same and wired the same it’s just a one for one swap. But make sure both alternators use the same gauge output wire in case one alternator has a higher amperage output.
Will dual batteries hurt my alternator?
You can run two batteries on the same alternator. Alternators protect against excessive current drain and aren’t affected by multiple batteries. When you connect the batteries, the voltage equalizes. This means that the lower voltage battery sucks power from the other.
How does a Redarc BCDC work?
A REDARC BCDC charger limits the charging current to a safe level and the size BCDC should be chosen to suit the battery manufacturer’s recommended maximum charging current.
Does the ECU control the alternator?
These systems are controlled by the vehicle Engine Control Unit (ECU). As the vehicle demands more load the ECU sends a signal to the alternator requesting it to start charging. The alternator has to cope with varying electrical loads and adjust its charge rate accordingly.
What is the difference between BCDC and DCDC?
A BCDC charger is a DCDC charger, the “BCDC ” is the start of the REDARC part number and means Battery Charger Direct Current , for example BCDC1225D. I trust this will point you in the right direction. If you have further queries, I recommend you call REDARC Technical Support on 08 83224848.
What does a DCDC do?
What is a DC-DC charger? In simplistic terms, they’re a smart charger that runs off 12-volts. They do this by taking the power output of your vehicle’s alternator and creating an output voltage and current that’s ideally suited to charging and/or maintaining your auxiliary battery.
Why do I need a DCDC charger?
DC to DC chargers increase the chance of your 12V batteries always being at close to a full charge. A DC to DC battery charger can minimize damage to your 12V battery system and prevent over-discharging when used correctly.
Is smart charging good for battery?
This prevents the battery from being charged for a long time when the battery level has already reached 100%, and slows down battery aging. Therefore, it is recommended that you keep this feature on. Note that Smart Charge does not affect the normal charging speed, and only pauses charging.
What is meant by smart charging?
Smart Charging means you can intelligently manage how your electric vehicle charges by connecting it to the grid. When a vehicle is ‘smart charging’, the charger is essentially ‘communicating’ with your car, the charging operator and the utility company through data connections.
Contents