On Thu, 4 Feb 2010 17:55:57 -0800 (PST), Tim
wrote:

No need to go with a J-mount. We can go with that same CS 144 design
and take it up to a respectable standard 160a rating on full load with
about a 185a. max. 14.7 volt, with a drop to a minimum of 13.9v at
full amp output.

not hard to do. but still need a key ign. source.

Something like that might be interesting although I'd prefer a
regulated voltage of 14.2 to prevent cooking the batteries too badly.
We are talking about more or less continuous operating conditions,
sometimes for 48+ hours non-stop, and I need an alternator that can
run reliably in that kind of environment at close to full power.
Ambient temperatures are on the toasty side also with the alternators
literally inches away from the blocks which are at 180 degrees.

The engines each have an on/off switch which I could trace out and tap
into if need be, although I'd rather not.