enduro250z
- Joined Jul 6, 2010
- 71
But lets say we have a alternator producing 100 watts @12 volts AC. With no lights turned on, all that 100 watts has to go somewhere. This 100 watts gets shunted to earth doesnt it. So doesnt that mean the regulator has to be capable on handling the process of dumping 100 watts. Then lets say we turn on one 50 watt light, then in theory the regulator only has to dump 50 watts as the other half is being used by the globe. Thats just what i think anyway. Most of these bikes will producing anthing up to 30 or 40 volts AC unlregulated.
When i have seen regulators advertised for sale, most will specify the rating in watts in terms of what it can handle dumping. If your alternator is putting out more power than the regulator can dump then you are required to keep a load on the alternator and use some of the power. In most cases this just means you have to run with your lights on during the day as well.
When i have seen regulators advertised for sale, most will specify the rating in watts in terms of what it can handle dumping. If your alternator is putting out more power than the regulator can dump then you are required to keep a load on the alternator and use some of the power. In most cases this just means you have to run with your lights on during the day as well.