In a message dated 10/18/2006 4:06:28 PM Central Standard Time,
tr3driver@comcast.net writes:
> >The battery acts like a big capacitor. It will stabilize the voltage in
> the
> >system which is especially critical when loads are switching on and off.
> The
> >voltage spikes can cause collateral damage. But running an alternator not
> >connected to anything won't harm the alternator.
>
> Unless of course the voltage spikes go high enough to ruin the diodes, or
> the
> regulator.
>
Indeed, running the system with the battery disconnected is a recipe for
disaster. But the question was running the alternator disconnected from the
rest
of the electrical system. Without the load aps and load dumps there will be
no spikes and the alternator is under no serious threat.
Dave
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