New to this forum, but seems to be allot of valuble info within!(of course a search didn't pop-up with what i needed!)

Working on a 96 Range Rover. Started with a no charge and growling alternator. Replaced, alternator "died" prior to even leaving the shop (whilst looking at blend motor stuff). Replaced with another alt... (battery was junk, also intially replaced that!)

To make a long story short, after extensive head scratching and diagnosis it was discovered that there was over .5 voltage drop between alternator and battery. Was only getting max of 40ish amp output. Cleaned all grounds and hot wires at starter. Ended up running a lead direct from charge post on alt to battery. Viola, now puts out 100 amps!

During all the head scratching started monitoring electrical loads on system. With everything on the vehicle can exceed 100 amps. Did figure out that the front defrost system was pulling over 30 amps (relay now out!) but all other power needs seemed appropriate.

So, question is... Anyone know the normal amperage load on these vehicles? Alt seems quite hot to the touch, but guessing full load will do that. And, is bad alt wires a common occurence on these?

thanks, Eric

 

the truth is that the range rover 95-98 will use more amps
then the alt will produce with all the acc. on (defrost program, lights, ect)
this was corrected with a higher amp alt with the bosch system.
where was also a cable update to the 95-98 range rovers
installing an 2nd cable from the alt to battery but i think you fig it out
on your own.

 

Raid - nice to know about 2nd cable

EH - Ibelieve my '96 4.0se alt is 120amp.
w/everything else, I also run (2) 6" 130 watt halogens seperate of my lighting circuit & have not had any probs so far

ps -you know that it's advised to attach new alt only if your bat is fully charged (the diodes need to season 1st)- seems that european stuff is more serious about this

 

I might also mention that I bought the new technology sears diehard for my range - it's a monster