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4. why is it necessary for the volts to decrease as the engine is under load and why does it become unnecessary when the lights are on? thanks, taro

Amperage is RPM dependent. Voltage is regulated by the regulator in relation to the electrical load. RPMs keep voltage up, therefore an engine under a load usually drops in RPMs and therefore voltage/amperage drop to a certian degree.



Michael,

(Correct me if I'm wrong here, Taro)

I believe the question centers more around the fact that turning on your headlights seems to hold the voltmeter steady. --- (Since installing my most recent alternator (that's #3 on my watch! <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/rolleyes.gif" alt="" /> ), IÆve noticed this phenomenon too.)

On my Rodeo, gunning the motor with everything turned off will result in the voltmeter taking a dive to 12và but if I do so with a set of lights on, the gauge stays rock-steady at 14v. --- Lately, just for the peace-of-mind that it gives me to see that gauge stay on 14v, IÆve been running my park & fog lights, day-or-night, rain-or-shine.


IÆve been told (by those who are far more electronically inclined) that the use of accessories will create a fixed and stable load that negates the æBrown-OutÆ effect. --- Personally, I donÆt pretend to fully understand it, and tend to look at it more likeà

ôUggà When light on - arrow thingy not moveà Mmm, GOOD!ö

<img src="/forums/images/graemlins/lol.gif" alt="" />

HTH

Cheers! <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />
Smiley

Six Isuzus, so far... still have three of them.