running lights direct from alternator no battery

[toot996]

I have a bf20 honda manual start with the small alternator. I use this on a small inflatable, and would like to wire the lights directly with no battery. Is this possible?<br /><br />Thanks in advance

 

[chuckz]

Re: running lights direct from alternator no battery

It's possible but not practical. The alternator depends upon the battery to regulate the voltage. You'll probably spend a small fortune in light bulbs. Use a small motorcycle battery and you'll get much better results as well as having light at low rpms.<br /><br />Besides, how are you going to run your anchor light without a battery?

 

[gutshot grouper]

Re: running lights direct from alternator no battery

Most alternators on automotive engines have a "slip ring" which makes contact with the brushes, which provides excitation to the commutator in the alternator. Without the battery as a source of a field, the alt. should not charge, however, an outboard has permanent magnets in the flywheel to provide a field, it may work, but you would be better with a constant voltage with a batt. , without it the voltage regulation would be poor.

 

[pwiseman]

Re: running lights direct from alternator no battery

Get a small gel battery that they use in portable fish finders. They weigh a couple pounds and cost less than $20. Simple is a good thing, but there are limits to that theory.

 

[khc1970]

Re: running lights direct from alternator no battery

If you don't want to spend the money, go find a knackered bike battery or lawn mower battery from scrappy or workshop somewhere. It won't have any decent charge in it, but if connected to the outboard, should provide power for lights for a few hours after each charge.