I want to ad four lights on the front of my Surco roof rack and two on the back. Also two lights on my front bumper. Any suggestions on an alternator that can handle the load??

I'm planning on using Hella 700FF
12V/55Watt bulb

 

I can't answer your question but I bet if you run a quick search for alternator you will find many threads about this as I know we have talked about it quite a few times.

 

I can't answer your question but I bet if you run a quick search for alternator you will find many threads about this as I know we have talked about it quite a few times.


HTH!!! Sorry I couldnt be of more assisstance.

 

doesn't the alternator from the Grand Cherokee fit in xj's. that woudl be 130 amps over 90 if u can get a jy find

 

i think aircruiser is running that same set up...

and i think he might be running the stock alt. too...dont quote me on that one though...lol

 

130 should do it, but in my opinion with 6 lights that are running 55w bulbs thats going to be using most of the upgraded juice if you have them all on at one time as well as other things like stock lights, heater? stereo? cb? winch? you get the picture

 

how many amps do each of the lights actually draw

55wat / 12v = 4.6 amp each X 8 = 36.8 amps + two headlights lets add 10amps to that =46.8 amps just for lights if you run them all at once

 

A typical 55w bulb will draw around 4.5 to 15 amps constant. A big variation but it depends on the bulb. If its HID then your going to have a large initial draw on the system then drop dramatically, such as 20 or so amps to around 4 to 5. You'll be fine with a 130 amp alternator. When you do get a larger alternator check the output when you have everything electrical possible in the on position. Make sure you leave room to charge the battery. Also remember to check it at idle then at around 1500 rpms.

 

i was

4 hella 500 55w on the roof
2 KC 130w slim lights on the bumper
stock alternator handled it just fine.









i dont run those now cause i had to take the rack off..but ill be running 6 55w lights on the roof soon and probably two on the bumper..you will be fine.

 

I'm going to check my system some time next week to see how much
amps it really takes
should be right at 55amp constant

I think the stock alt could keep up with the light but with a winch you would be out of luck at night