Can I Use an External Regulator With Any Marine Alternator?
18 June 2023 · 4 min · 12K views
What this video covers
Most stock marine alternators, including standard 55-amp Yanmar units, feature internal regulators that limit charging performance.0:57 To utilize an external smart regulator, a technician must modify the stock alternator by bypassing the internal field and installing an external field wire.1:06 While companies like Balmar manufacture alternators pre-configured for external regulation, modifying an existing stock unit remains a viable alternative for increasing charging output by 50% or more.0:48 This upgrade allows the regulator to manage output based on battery voltage and amperage, significantly reducing engine runtime required to recharge large battery banks.1:27 Before proceeding with modifications, boat owners must verify if the engine manufacturer permits such alterations, as the process may void existing warranties.1:49 This upgrade is particularly beneficial for vessels lacking a generator that rely solely on the engine alternator for battery maintenance.3:26
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