Yanmar 4JH5E. Cost effective charging increase?

[DougMc]

I'm sure there are well-known answers to this question for a relatively common engine, but I'm struggling to find them.

We have a 2017 Oceanis 45 with 420Ah of AGM batteries, and I'd like to figure if there's a reasonable way to increase the charging current from the engine. (Solar is a separate question).

I understand that if the engine is equipped with the Valeo alternator (to be verified), there is a Balmar regulator upgrade available. (ARS-5 or MC-614).

Is this approach generally thought to be worthwhile?

The next option might be to exchange the alternator, but I haven't yet spent too much time on figuring out what option might fit with a modest amount of work.

Is there a "classic" well-liked alternator upgrade for this engine?

Any information, especially from people who have trod this path ahead of me, is very much appreciated.
Regards,
Doug

[GreenWave]

If you have a Balmar regulator then look at the Balmar alternators. They have all sorts.

[fnees]

Originally Posted by DougMc

I'm sure there are well-known answers to this question for a relatively common engine, but I'm struggling to find them.

We have a 2017 Oceanis 45 with 420Ah of AGM batteries, and I'd like to figure if there's a reasonable way to increase the charging current from the engine. (Solar is a separate question).

I understand that if the engine is equipped with the Valeo alternator (to be verified), there is a Balmar regulator upgrade available. (ARS-5 or MC-614).

Is this approach generally thought to be worthwhile?

The next option might be to exchange the alternator, but I haven't yet spent too much time on figuring out what option might fit with a modest amount of work.

Is there a "classic" well-liked alternator upgrade for this engine?

Any information, especially from people who have trod this path ahead of me, is very much appreciated.
Regards,
Doug

We have the exact same boat/ engine/ alternator. Which way dos you go please?

[DougMc]

Originally Posted by fnees

We have the exact same boat/ engine/ alternator. Which way dos you go please?

So far, I have installed about 350 watts of solar. Our boat lives in the BVI, so that is quite effective.

I have also purchased the Wakespeed external regulator, but have not yet finished the installation. I only want to complete the hookup when I have a decent amount of time available to spend on the boat.

Regards
Doug

[pcmm]

I have a 120amp valero type alternator on my 4JH2E (relative of your engine) its being controlled by a sterling External alrternator regulator. I cracked the case on my alternator myself and converted it to external regulation following the Sterling instructions, which weren't very hard. Its part of my system managing 440ah of FLA GC2 batteries. They combination has done pretty well over the last 8 years keeping my GC2's alive.

[fnees]

Originally Posted by pcmm

I have a 120amp valero type alternator on my 4JH2E (relative of your engine) its being controlled by a sterling External alrternator regulator. I cracked the case on my alternator myself and converted it to external regulation following the Sterling instructions, which weren't very hard. Its part of my system managing 440ah of FLA GC2 batteries. They combination has done pretty well over the last 8 years keeping my GC2's alive.

Thanks guys for the answers. I will look into those external regulators. I am still thinking on exchanging the alternator, but that seems more work than announced...