- Jun 5, 2016
- 5,626
- Boat Info
- 410 Sundancer
2001
12" Axiom and 9" Axiom+ MFD
- Engines
- Cat 3126 V-Drives
Since I've added a large inverter battery bank, I have been thinking about ways to keep all the batteries on the boat charged with a minimum of engine run time. One idea that I've been looking at is adding a Balmar high output alternator on my Westerbeke 7.6BTD.
In looking at the Balmar alternators, there are a couple options. Looks like a 100A version could be added using the single drive belt already installed, anything rated higher would require serpentine belt conversion. The good news is they make pulley kits for Westerbeke auxillary engines, and the best I can tell the 30B Three auxiliary is the exact same engine as in the 7.6 BTD. I crossed the water pump/pulley, crank pulley and alternator, and they are the same, so the AltMount 48-WSP-12C should fit and I'd end up with a J10 serpentine belt. The serpentine belt would likely be a better option as single belt would likely wear out much faster.
Then the issue become will the engine produce enough power to run the AC and DC side at the same time. Not sure about how much power I could draw off. The base engine on the generator is about 12 hp @1800 RPM, and capable of 27HP@ 3600 in the auxillary engine version.
The online product selector recommends something in the 70A-170A range.
In looking at the Balmar alternators, there are a couple options. Looks like a 100A version could be added using the single drive belt already installed, anything rated higher would require serpentine belt conversion. The good news is they make pulley kits for Westerbeke auxillary engines, and the best I can tell the 30B Three auxiliary is the exact same engine as in the 7.6 BTD. I crossed the water pump/pulley, crank pulley and alternator, and they are the same, so the AltMount 48-WSP-12C should fit and I'd end up with a J10 serpentine belt. The serpentine belt would likely be a better option as single belt would likely wear out much faster.
Then the issue become will the engine produce enough power to run the AC and DC side at the same time. Not sure about how much power I could draw off. The base engine on the generator is about 12 hp @1800 RPM, and capable of 27HP@ 3600 in the auxillary engine version.
The online product selector recommends something in the 70A-170A range.
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