Vannin' Home Forums General Discussion General Discussion Van Charging Amp ?

I have a '72 Tradesman 200 camper. I'd like to set up a dual battery system and run an inverter, etc. But first things first.

How many amps should the alternator be? Is there such a thing as too big, amperage wise? With tight engine bay tolerances how big can I go? Any pitfalls to going away from stock?

I've had to chase some electrical gremlins already and I don't want to push too far or too hard on her.

Electrical problems not my specialty, but heres a free bump to the top for ya!!

b-bump

I do't believe you can over amp. You definatly don't need to over amp. though. The best thing to do is size everthing according to your needs.

An inverter is a great thing, but is not made to run and air conditioner. Depending on what it is you want to use the inverter for will vay what amperage alternator you should use. Also, the alternator will only recharge the batteries that the inverter is running off of when the van is running. If you plan on "camping" and running things off the inverter, you will have to run the van to recharge the batteries. You may want to consider low voltage items an/or propane fueled items. I don't really know what your intensions are.