Hi all,

Saw today on the PSI3 that my BV was charging at just over 12v.
I thought it was usually 14v or thereabouts. As I put the fan and headlights on, the BV then went to 14v as I'd normally expect.

I turned off lights / fan and it went back down to 12v - is that normal, or should it be 14v constantly whilst it's running (regardless of electrical load)?

Or, is it usually 12v then as load is applied, the regulator on the alternator kicks in and starts charging the battery at 14v?
It's something I've never noticed before, but I do usually have the fan on, today it was off when I realised, and was a daytime run so headlights not on either.

 

Yes - a "Smart" Alternator that regulates output voltage depending upon the load which is why most people keep the cabin fan or sidelights on.

Alternator 3 pin plug.....
PIN1 - Black/White - charging light
PIN2 - Yellow - LOAD Feedback loop via 10A fuse
PIN3 - Blue - ECU control circuit

 

Ah that explains why I usually see 14v, usually my fan is on quarter to half speed. Thanks again Don.

Matt