Nick's Auto Blog

Hello, my name is Nick. This is my new auto blog. Have you ever wondered about how you can improve the look and functioning of your auto? If so you are in the right place. I live in a large house in the suburbs of Melbourne, Australia and my house has as many garage parking spots as it does rooms. And believe me, it has a lot of rooms. I like to collect classic cars and then work on them to restore them to their former glory. In doing this, I have learnt lots of cool tricks. I would like to share some of these tricks with you here.

Do You Need An High Output Alternator?

Automotive Blog

The alternator is responsible for converting the mechanical energy which is generated the car's engine into electrical power. This electrical energy is stored in your car's battery and is used to power your radio, electric windows, headlights and other in-car electrical systems. Most importantly, it is also the power which is used to ignite fuel during engine starting operations. There may be times when the standard alternator supplied by the manufacturer of your car isn't providing sufficient power to your car's battery. In this case, you may need to consider investing in a high output alternator. Below are 3 situations in which a high output alternator may be required.

You have installed additional electrical accessories on your car

Many car owners like to install additional electrical accessories to their vehicle. This could take the form of a bigger music and speaker system, more powerful headlights or an improved anti-theft alarm system. Adding additional electrical items to your car may place a greater demand on your car battery and alternator. A high output alternator is designed to provide additional electrical power to the battery, so you can easily power the additional electrical items you have added to your car.

You only drive short distances

Because your car's alternator can only generate power using the mechanical energy created by your engine, it will not work when the car is not in use. If you only drive short distances, the alternator will not have a lot of time to generate power. This means that the electrical items in your car will increasingly have to draw on the battery, causing it to slowly drain. The alternator will be able to recharge the battery, but if you only drive short distances, it is likely your battery will eventually become flat. Even over short distances, a high output alternator can generate enough electricity to keep your car running and your battery charged.

You often drive in slow traffic

If you often drive in rush hour conditions in which the traffic is moving at a very slow pace, although you are covering a long distance, the low speed can limit the amount of electrical energy your alternator can create. This will create the same problems for your car's electrical system as only driving short distances. A high output alternator may be the solution you need to ensure your car's electrical system and battery get the power they need.

If you have any questions or concerns about your car's electrical system or battery, contact an auto service professional.

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25 July 2016