Whats the advantage?

[(unknown)]

I am going to be running a river turbine and have lots of torque but not many rpms. I have be thinking of just gearing up and running a car alternator. Recent events have caused me to rethink this. I am wondering if it is worth while to build a alternator to purpose is a better idea. I want to produce about 3kW and I know I can do this with a 250 amp car alternator. This will cost about $500. Any help woud be great.

[tanner0441]

Hi

Against the advice I was given on here I played with car alternators, albeit with wind, I didn't manadge to get one to work reliably.  On an engine they only run for a short time, with wind and hyro it would be running 24/7 and unless you have something with bearings both ends the wear on the back bush would soon take it out.

If you have that much water power available I would go for the most reliable and efficient plan you can.   Just my opinion.

Brian.