This $405 option says "PTO at front with bracket for additional alternator".
For a new Sprinter, I assume a second 220 amp alternator is added by a Mercedes dealer. But what I want to know is how it works. I read the description and it implies that it is engaged only at idle. So can I assume after engagement that normal driving is ok? Is there a switch on the dash to engage/disengage?
If it is not engaged, what is turning in the engine compartment? I assume there is not much of a load on the engine if not engaged.
I spoke with someone who claimed PTO is a general term and any alternator connection is a PTO. He also mumbled about a harmonic balancer. Can someone explain a PTO in simple terms to someone who only knows that the primary engine alternator has a belt pulley.
I want the on demand second alternator to provide a direct DC connection to a large house battery bank. The primary alternator will also feed power to the house battery bank via a Sure Power 1315. The second alternator is hopefully an on demand power source if engaged. If not engaged I hope it is not a drag on the engine.
Barry
For a new Sprinter, I assume a second 220 amp alternator is added by a Mercedes dealer. But what I want to know is how it works. I read the description and it implies that it is engaged only at idle. So can I assume after engagement that normal driving is ok? Is there a switch on the dash to engage/disengage?
If it is not engaged, what is turning in the engine compartment? I assume there is not much of a load on the engine if not engaged.
I spoke with someone who claimed PTO is a general term and any alternator connection is a PTO. He also mumbled about a harmonic balancer. Can someone explain a PTO in simple terms to someone who only knows that the primary engine alternator has a belt pulley.
I want the on demand second alternator to provide a direct DC connection to a large house battery bank. The primary alternator will also feed power to the house battery bank via a Sure Power 1315. The second alternator is hopefully an on demand power source if engaged. If not engaged I hope it is not a drag on the engine.
Barry