Quote:
Originally Posted by markweatherill
Once the battery's voltage is up to 'fully charged' the alternator will stop 'trying' to charge it  |
The problem is an auto battery only accepts ~12.5 volts, while the alternator is putting out 14.5 assuming it's healthy. The alternator is constantly working to make up this 2V difference, and it causes a significant load on the engine while doing so. People have seen I believe as much as 10% fuel economy increase by eliminating this load. That translates to another 4-5 MPG in my geo if it holds true.