I'm in the process of purchasing a Kubota B3030 with the 403 loader. I would like members' opinions regarding the necessity to upgrade to the 40 amp alternator. The only additional power needs I will likely have is from the installation of two 55W halogen lights for nighttime snowblowing. Thanks for your help.
Alternator for B3030
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BenA
Member
In the past, one our members mentioned a formula that you could use to determine how many volts your extra lights would require. I do not remember it, but there has been lots of discussion on this subject. You might do a search and see what you come up with. Once you figure out what your lights will require, and what your alternator produces, then you will know if an upgrade is needed.
MadReferee
Elite Member, Rest in Peace
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The alternator is only about $175 as a dealer installed option (installation not included). If you plan to add lights it's well worth the money. The two 55w lamps will draw just over 9 amps. If you add another light, or even turn on your headlights along with the 55w lites, you will exceed your stock dynamo's 14 amp output.
BrianW
Silver Member
The formula you are looking for is Watts = Volts x Amps. Plugging in 12 Volts and 14 Amps for the Dynamo gives 12 x 14 = 168 Watts. Two 55 Watt lamps leave 168 - (2 x 55) = 58 Watts. If the headlights use more than 55 Watts then you have a problem. With the 40 Amp alternator you have 480 Watts and after your two 55 Watt lamps you still have 370 Watts available for additional lights and accessories. Also you must remember you will not always be getting the total quoted output from the alternator or dynamo (such as at idle).
The only down side of the alternator upgrade (besides paying for it) is it makes it harder to check the oil.
The only down side of the alternator upgrade (besides paying for it) is it makes it harder to check the oil.
MadReferee
Elite Member, Rest in Peace
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It shouldn't. Mine came with a new dipstick and dipstick tube as part of the installation kit. I have no problems at all checking the oil.BrianW said:
herringchoker
Platinum Member
The new dipstick that came with the alternator kit I installed on my B7800 is shorter than the original and has no tube (because there is no room for one with the larger alternator). I now have to remove the engine compartment side panel to reach the shorter dipstick under the alternator. But that to me is a very minor inconvenience when weighed against the 40A (vs 14A) charging output of the alternator.
BrianW
Silver Member
Toolguy
Platinum Member
I was able to do some very careful bending of the original dipstick to make it fit around the alternator. It can be done and it makes it a lot easier to check the oil. I hated the idea of having to remove the front grill and then the side panel just to do something as simple as checking the oil. I run three 55w work lights and have had no problem. Well worth the cost to me.
herringchoker
Platinum Member
Toolguy said:
Toolguy - I must try that. Then I too can have the best of both worlds.
FrogLick
Silver Member
I think if you are even thinking about adding work lights you should go ahead and get the alternator upgrade and have it installed while it's in the dealer's shop for the pre-delivery prep. I offered to buy the kit and my dealer installed it at no additional charge. My kit didn't come with any extended dipstick or tube and the above is the first I've heard of it. Yep, checking the oil is a little bit of trouble having to open the side cover, but the options that the upgrade alternator offers is worth it.