The misconception seems to be about what the voltage regulator does. It's only job is to try to keep the alternator output voltage constant, no matter the load on the alternator. It does not know or sense what the charge level is on the battery. It just tries to make sure that the alternator is keeping up with demand but not exceeding it. That demand can come from charging batteries and/or running headlights, fans, air conditioning, whatever. If the demand goes up, the voltage regulator causes the alternator to supply more current to keep the voltage from dropping due to the additional load. The voltage regulator does not "kick in". It is ALWAYS working, trying the keep the output voltage of the alternator at a constant voltage of around 14 volts. The alternator can put out a much higher voltage than that, if the regulator didn't stop it from doing so. That is why it is called a REGULATOR. It is always keeping the alternator in check, to prevent the voltage from being too high. That is it's main job. Too high of a voltage will damage the battery and possibly other electrical stuff. Mark |
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