<VV> Battery

[Chris & Bill Strickland]

>>The 51R seems to be the general one of choice. I looked at them today and was wondering if a smaller battery would be good to use. 
>>    
>>

Outside physical size has little to do with electrical size when you are 
comparing apples (old tech) to oranges (new tech) -- there is a reason 
the 51R is the battery of choice -- it works!

>>what [are] the amps [a Delco Generator] puts out? 
>>

Maximum possible, or normal operation -- it is controlled by the 
regulator -- generators can easily exceed their "normal" 30 amps or so, 
for perhaps brief periods..

>>I am having charging problems (over charging battery).
>>

Typically this is a regulator issue, but generators can be a bit 
complicated when things get out of whack.

>>I was told it was the voltage regulator.
>>

Perhaps by a certified automotive electrician?  The mailman?  Your 
wife?  Some email list or forum?

>> It is putting out 15 whatevers and should only be around 12? 
>>

Those "whatevers" are called Volts.  Regulating them is what the voltage 
regulator does.  15 volts is a bit high. Normally one wants 13.8-14.2 
from a running, charging, well-regulated vehicle.  18 volts would be high.

Your 15 volts shouldn't be a battery killer unless it has been going on 
a long time and has "boiled the battery dry" or caused other long term 
damage.  Twelve volts is normal static battery voltage, but a charged 
battery in good condition may show 13.2 or so -- engine off, turn the 
headlights on to dissipate this excess charge -- a good battery should 
be able to hold 12 volts with the headlights on for a good while.

But, frankly, since there seems to be a problem knowing that 15 is volts 
instead of "whatevers",  I would like to respectfully suggest that you 
seek additional outside help, in person, either from knowledgeable 
friends or professionals.  Even if you have to pay for it, such help 
will be highly cost effective, and, if you are allowed to pay attention, 
it could be educational.

Bill Strickland