What Is The Benefit Of Connecting To Alternator Versus Directly to Battery Terminal

Question:

I wonder about the accuracy of your reply re whether to charge to battery or alternator. Since the output from the alternator must be connected to the battery in order to charge the battery, what difference does it make whether you connect it to the alternator or at the positive post of the battery? In most cases, its probably easier to connect at the battery post rather than at the alternator itself.

asked by: Gary

Helpful Expert Reply:

I reached out to my contact at Redarc and confirmed that when using the In-Vehicle BCDC Battery Charger # 331-BCDC1225D the only benefit is the increased amperage when you connect the unit to the alternator versus the battery directly. This is a big help in charging versuses maintaining a secondary battery and maintaining the use originally designed in the system for the starter battery. The alternator will increase the amperage the unit will receive and charge the additional battery faster. Could it technically work the way you mentioned with a direct to battery connection, yes, but not with the efficiency it is designed for.

expert reply by: Jason S