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Thread: FFR 24 volt system alternator questions

  1. #1
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    FFR 24 volt system alternator questions

    Hello,

    I have picked up a 1988 FFR Perentie and I am new to the forum.

    I have some questions about the 24 volt auxiliary system, specifically about the alternator.

    Firstly, the four batteries were cactus when I got it. Their individual voltages were around 7, 5, 7 and 5 volts respectively. This gave a system voltage of around 12 volts when the engine was off.

    I have now removed the four batteries and insulated the appropriate leads that have been left flying inside the battery lockers.

    Before removing the batteries I checked the system voltage with the engine running. It dropped from around 12 volts when the engine was off to less than 1 volt when running. When I removed the batteries I checked the output of the alternator from inside the Power Distribution Box. The level was again less than 1 volt with the engine running.

    I don’t know enough about alternators and would like to know if it will be damaged if it runs without a battery load on it (left electrically disconnected). I would also like to know if what I describe above indicates that there is something wrong with the alternator. I’ve googled for this but have not found a clear answer.

    I am hoping that the alternator is fine and that it was not showing ~28 volts with the engine running because the batteries were in such bad shape. I am also hoping that it is normal that there is practically no output (less than 1 volt) when the engine is running with nothing attached to it.

    Thanks for any insight you can provide.

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Nov 2009
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    Western Victoria
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    It is a generator, I believe. It needs a voltage to excite to generate electricity. If you ensure the terminations are well insulated, it shouldn't be a problem.
    If you are still concerned, remove the generator's drive belts.

  3. #3
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    Thanks Mick.

    Yep. I got two of the batteries up to 12 volts each and that got the alternator going. Now I’ll consider what batteries to replace these with as they are too far gone to be of any use.

    Cheers

    Nick

  4. #4
    Join Date
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    What are you trying to achieve?

    My Perentie, I want to keep original. When I restore the 24v system, I'll be installing two lead/acid N70 batteries. It only has one battery box.

    When I get a FFR for touring, I'll be replacing the 24v generator with a 12v alternator (if I can) and paralleling two (lithium or some other deep cycle) batteries in one battery box and converting the other battery box to a storage locker. I'll be adding a solar panel or two as well.

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