Alternator considerations before installing DC-DC charger

[Aleph]

Something to think about before installing a DC-DC charging system. I have an EcoFlow alternator charger that I’m about to install and now I’m wondering if it’s a wise decision. Probably will limit it to 20-30 amps and only run it while cruising. It will turn on if it detects battery is above a certain voltage but the battery voltage isn’t the best surrogate of load because of the IBS (as I understand). I am by all means a newbie when it comes to electrical stuff.

Solar isn’t a great option for me since I’ll be in a cloudy/cold climate.

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[StarsMojave]

I run two charging systems in my 2024 Mojave. First is charging a Bluetti EB70S using the supplied AC charger plugged into the 400 watt AC outlet in the back seat center console. The EB70S will charge at about 250 watts when engine is running. This EB70S keeps my 12 volt refrigerator running while I’m traveling and camping. The other system is where I ran a 6 gauge +/- cable from battery to the pickup bed that is wired into a Pecron 500 watt DC to DC charger. This will charge my Pecron battery system about 4500 watt hours when the engine is running. This setup will be charging at about 450 watts. I use this system to run a 200 watt space heater while I sleep. All this works well and I don’t think it is straining the alternator. The main thing is proper sized wire and fuses.

 

[CrazyCooter]

One of the largest reasons in install the DC-DC charger is to protect your alternator from the low impedance of a LiFePO4 battery? The other would be so that the 14.5V required to charge that chemistry?

What do you think the alternator field signal looks like when you fire up a winch, snow plow, or turn on every light and added accessory?

What kind of alternator that's rated for 200amps+ can't handle a 100-150A constant load? If it couldn't handle it, wouldn't you think the manufacturer would limit it's output so it won't self destruct? This isn't 1955 where any load put on the alternator is just fed till it melts down......

 

[Freems]

One of the largest reasons in install the DC-DC charger is to protect your alternator from the low impedance of a LiFePO4 battery? The other would be so that the 14.5V required to charge that chemistry?

What do you think the alternator field signal looks like when you fire up a winch, snow plow, or turn on every light and added accessory?

What kind of alternator that's rated for 200amps+ can't handle a 100-150A constant load? If it couldn't handle it, wouldn't you think the manufacturer would limit it's output so it won't self destruct? This isn't 1955 where any load put on the alternator is just fed till it melts down......

Dam, I miss those melt down days…

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