Alternator output

[Dunesand]

I saw some powerfull 9inch 225W(each) LED spotlights available abroad.
Over 12V that would be 450W(2 x 225w) = <40Amp current drawn.

My question is whether the alternator of a Hilux Vigo would be able to sustain this current?

[Mud Dog]

Perhaps some of the more auto electrically savvy guys can clarify, but my thoughts are that since the alternators are usually rated at about 70 to 80 amps, it should be able to handle that load.

However, depending on the sum total of the draw of that load plus all the other electrically operated components / accessories, there might at times not be enough to replace charge to the battery and you will see the charge light come on at the dash. Eg. you may be running your driving lights, wipers, demister (climate control fan) and radio while the other normal things like ECU, ignition coils (on petrol motors) etc, are also drawing a small amount.

[ChrisF]

Think Andy is on the right track .... modern vehicles use a LOT of electricity to drive all the computers and gadgets.

Adding 40A just for the spots must have some impact on a standard alternator.

[Family_Dog]

Pretty sure it will impact on the alternator, if it has to supply 450 watts additional for long periods at a time. A normal alternator charges at a high rate for 10 minutes or so then settles down somewhat as the battery reaches full charge. I should image that those spots would also be highly illegal as well.


-F_D

[Dunesand]

All comments acknowledged.
On the point of "highly illegal", the question is actually: beyond which wattage is illegal - would it be 100w, 150w, 125w, 200w or where??

[Family_Dog]

60w is the limit per globe for normal Halogen globes, probably the same for LEDs. I do recall there being a limit of not more than six headlights in total.


-F_D

[Rigger]

That clever law that states each LED equals a bulb so in affect two spotlights = 20 bulbs = 20 headlights