By Chris on Monday, May 21, 2001 - 01:31 pm: Edit

Hey Guys,

I would like some input regarding the power needed to run four lamps. I have two 130 watt lamps and two 100 watt lamps. I plan on wiring the lamps together in sets of two and using two separate toggle switches to control them. What I need to know is: will I be able to use all four of these lights at the same time with the stock battery/alternator set-up? As I have zero experince with this and I know many of you have lots, I would appreciate any input you guys have!

Thanks,
Chris Condon

By Ron on Monday, May 21, 2001 - 01:39 pm: Edit

You will be ok. At the border of what the stock alternator is putting out so don't turn on all your accessories too. I would just run two lights unless you feel you need all four.

Cheers
Ron

By nadim on Monday, May 21, 2001 - 01:42 pm: Edit

With an optima yellow top, you'll be able to do anything you want...

By Chris on Monday, May 21, 2001 - 01:50 pm: Edit

Thanks Ron.

As you suggested Nadim, I have considered getting an Optima, but will that make a defference if I still use the stock alternator?

Thanks guys.

Chris

By Ron on Monday, May 21, 2001 - 01:54 pm: Edit

The way it works is if you exceed the capacity of the alternator you draw from the battery which is a finite source of power. Personally, I run almost no accessories unless I have to (no fancy lights on my trucks just upgraded headlights) as alternators are expensive and I like to have as much juice as possible to winch. The advantage of a yellow top over any other battery (including te red top) is that you can run it down to almost nothing and it will still take a charge, but as far as what you can use constantly the alternator output is the limit.

Cheers
Ron

By Chris on Monday, May 21, 2001 - 02:00 pm: Edit

Thanks Ron, that is what I needed to know!

Chris