Owner`s manual
173
2008 LAPALMA XL
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS- CHASSIS — 9
alternator
The function
of the alternator
is an electrical
system voltage
maintainer, not a
battery charger.
When the engine
is operating, the
alternator maintains electrical system voltage
relative to a load, such as headlights and
windshield wipers. When a heavy load is placed
on the alternator, such as trying to charge dead
house batteries, the operating temperature of
the alternator will increase. Excess operating
temperature of the alternator for extended
periods of operation can lead to premature
failure of the alternator.
The alternator replaces amp hours the chassis
battery used to start the engine. The amount of
charge the alternator sends to the chassis battery
is dependent on the amount of time the engine
is operated. Repeatedly starting the engine for
short periods may not be enough operating time
to adequately replace the amp hours the chassis
battery uses to start the engine.
When traveling, keep an eye on the
voltmeter in the dash area. Normal readings
should be between 13 to 14.5 Volts DC.
Voltage indications higher or lower indicate a
potential problem with the charging system.
If the alternator output drops below an
acceptable level, a charge indication warning
lamp will illuminate.
NOTE:
The alternator is not designed to charge
the house batteries from a complete
discharge to a full state of charge. The
alternator will maintain the battery
charge during travel, supplying the DC
current necessary to operate running
lights or other DC loads.
If the house batteries are in a low state of
charge, it is recommended to charge the house
batteries with the inverter or an auxiliary battery
charger before driving the motorhome.
CAUTION:
Long-term use of the inverter to operate
the microwave while in transit will
damage the alternator. Use the generator
to operate the microwave while in
transit.
Alternator Testing Procedure
Alternator Testing:
Check all wiring for burnt or loose
electrical connections. Repair as needed.
Check all grounds and electrical
connections to conrm they are clean and
tight.
- Alternator ground to chassis frame.
- Motor block ground to chassis frame.
- Chassis battery ground to chassis
frame.
- Alternator positive output to isolator
relay terminal.
Inspect the alternator for damage.
Check belt, pulley and fan for wear.
Replace as needed.
DO NOT disconnect the battery or
battery wire from the alternator with the
engine running as this can damage the
alternator or regulator.
The pulley for the alternator should be
torqued to 80 ft. lbs.
Chassis battery voltage with the engine
OFF should range from 12.2 to 12.7 Volt
DC.
Chassis battery voltage with the engine at
idle should range 13.5 to 14.2 Volts DC.
The output of the alternator range is 13.6
to 15.4 Volts DC. Connect a volt meter
to the (B+) terminal of the alternator and
chassis ground. Idle the engine up to
1200 RPM.
Connect a clamp-on amp-meter, if
available, to the positive battery cable to
verify the battery state/rate of charge.
CAUTION:
The alternator is not a battery charger.
The alternator is designed to maintain
proper electrical system voltage. A
battery with a low state of charge, or a
dead battery, may overheat and damage
the alternator.
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