Dual Alternator Kits

dual alternator

Dual alternators offer to double the amperage available to your house batteries, while keeping the original factory charging system intact.

dual alternatorThe Mercedes Benz Sprinter has had an option for a while now, for a second alternator. Not many RV’s have a real need for such an upgrade, but especially with the introduction of large Lithium battery banks in RV’s, they may prove to be indispensable.
No other van had this option available, either as OEM or after-market product until now. Several companies are offering these kits for the Ford Transit and Ram ProMaster, but don’t rush to the store yet without a big fat wallet.

With average prices around $1500.00, these will not fly off the shelves. And not everyone has a need for such a setup. But if you have a large battery bank and Lithium, that allows for high amperage charging, the pros may outweigh the cons. Besides price, we still don’t know whether the warranty on your car is affected and how extended idling of the motor may cause mechanical problems.
Having an alternator charging your house batteries, yet completely separated from the vehicle’s electrical system has its advantages.

This kit for a Ford Transit comes with:

  • Dual alternator mounting bracket
  • 280XP High Amp Alternator (Produces 200 Amps at idle)
  • OEM GM idler pulley for the best serpentine belt life.
  • Gates Green Stripe serpentine belt.
  • ALL mounting hardware needed to install the bracket and alternator to the vehicle.
  • An alternator excitation harness to turn on the secondary alternator, and this kit will not cause any check engine codes/charging lights
  • Price: $1,699.95

nationsstarteralternator.com

4 comments

    1. Dear msalam:
      Unfortunately, I don’t take orders for products or materials. I’m just a blogger, who writes about his experiences in converting a cargo van into an RV.
      Best place to ask is probably your local Toyota dealer.
      Good luck.
      Van Williams

    1. Hi Silvio,

      Nations is probably the best source for dual alternator kits. Usually, everything you need to install, is included in a kit and easy to add for a mechanic. (nationsstarteralternator.com)

      A disadvantage is the relatively high price, but if you have a 600Ah battery bank or higher, it may well be a good investment. Relatively small battery banks would be better served with 30A DC-DC converters such as from Victron.

      Hope this helps. Van

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