Quote:
Originally Posted by MetroMPG
I don't think the alternator delete/off mod works unless you are primarily running from the battery, and then using some other power source to recharge it.
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In my case I'm using it to add a bit of full-throttle oomph, which allows me to get performance equal to having a slightly larger engine, and the fuel savings comes from not having to drag that bigger engine around when I don't need it. Probably of no significance on a big engine, but gosh, if I could replace the 17hp engine (say on an XR3 or other small trike) with a 16hp engine and an alternator switch, mileage might improve a few percent. My issue now is keeping the 0-60 time under 18 seconds...and it's 17 seconds and some change at present, and I'm going to be adding a bit of weight, so I may need all the help I can get.
Quote:
Originally Posted by MetroMPG
You could conceivably control the alternator intelligently to take advantage of the best times to recharge the battery, ie. during throttle-off fuel cut or actual friction braking. Those opportunities are more common in sub/urban driving than on the open road (limiting usefulness for my typical driving).
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I was considering putting a big, tall geared alternator in the system, with an air conditioner clutch that engaged whenever the brake lights lit, but for how little I use the brakes, the weight of a second alternator would cost me more mileage than the regenerative braking would gain me.