alternator wiring

RedFish said
no alternator will put out more voltage then what is called for regardless its capabilities.
While all the current inside the cabin does go through the ALT' gauge, that's all that goes through it.
If you intend to add equipment that will require a higher output alternator... fine. That equipment would be supplied through relays ( very similar to how your starter is wired ). The ALT' gauge and those wires are not effected.
There are causes for the meltdown shown at the Madelectic webpages and more practical reasons to change to a volt gauge.

I think (correct me if I'm wrong) but you might be confusing voltage with amperage. You are correct that most automotive alternators will only put out 12-16 volts of electricity, but the amperage that an alternator can produce can vary widely with engine speed. Thus, a modern alternator can easily put out 140 Amps of current, while a 60s era alternator frequently only put out 60 Amps or less current. Both alternators would be putting out the SAME 14 volts, but at vastly different currents.

You are also correct that you should use relays for high current applications. You might be wondering why someone would want or need a high output alternator on a car with so few electric accessories. Well, the motor he's putting in the car (A late model Hemi) naturally comes with a late model high output alternator, so it is easier to modify the electrical system, than it is to mount a 60s style alternator on a 21st century motor.

Regards,

Joe Dokes