Holiday Trip 2012, Owner'S Manual

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2012 Trip
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.
Monitor the voltmeter when traveling.
Normal readings are between 13 to 14.5
Volts DC. Voltage indications higher or lower
indicate a potential problem with the charging
system. If alternator output drops below an
acceptable level, an Alt Fail warning 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
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 converter/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.
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Check all grounds and electrical
connections to confirm 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
Volts DC.
Chassis battery voltage with the engine
running should range 13.0 to 14.5 Volts
DC.
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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090347f
160 Amp