ZRD - Alternators

Products

There are numerous products to cover many varied scenerarios. Please email or contact us if you do not see the exact product (if you already know what you need) you are looking for. Our technical team will assist you in selecting the proper solution to fit your needs. We are constantly adding products to our listing. Whether your engine is a Bukh, Caterpillar, Chrysler, Crusader, Cummins, Detroit Diesel, Farymann, Flagship, GMC, Greymarine, Hawk Marine, Hino, Indmar, Isuzu, John Deere, Kubota, Lehman (Ford or Sabre), Lugger, MAN, Mercedes, Mercruiser, Mitsubishi, MTU, Nanni, OMC, Pathfinder, Perkins, Pleasurecraft, Sisu, Universal, Volvo, Westerbeke, Yanmar, or any other, we have an alternator solution for you.

Alternator Mounting Brackets

Pictured at right is a Balmar series 95 alternator installed in a bracket ZRD designed, evolved, and manufactured. It allows for the attachment of Balmar high output series 95, 96, or 97 dual 4" foot (marine industry J180 Mount) alternator to the engine of your choice. The bracket may also be used to mount a Balmar high output series 98 alternator, but a specialized (non-standard) adjustment arm is required. With a second Balmar high output alternator installed, a source of DC power is assured (see link on DC Charging Philosophy). It also serves as the belt tensioning device for the alternator and another dual pulley powered mechanism that may be included as part of a multi-functional installed solution that may include items such as a pump or compressor. It's universal design allows it to be attached to any engine.

Single 1" and 2" foot and most (low amperage) 3.15" dual foot alternator models, regardless of manufacturer, are designed as replacements for existing engine alternators or are specifically designed for direct engine attachment. They need to be kept at the low amperage level (less than 100 amps) so that the attachment point (foot) will not fail. The J180 (dual 4" foot) mount ensures even loading and prevents attachment failures. Our bracket's geometry allows for each alternator's unique full movement ensuring proper belt tensioning and provides rigidity in the correct planes to ensure structural reliability. An initial view will show the bracket's concise design, but many hours of research, multiple development, and attention to many details were required to produce the desired functional result. Many subtle required details will become obvious during installation.

Series 95 Balmar Alternator mounted in ZRD Bracket

Series 95, 96, or 97

Note: Custom-Tailored, Specialized,
ZRD Alternator Pulley installed

Series 95 Balmar Alternator with external cooling air supplied

Click on alternator to enlarge

Note: Alternator Cooling Air supplied
from external sourcing

Engine Attachment

Sometimes, there is a bit of a misunderstanding on this item. The engine attachment is a separate item required for the alternator/bracket assembly mentioned above. It needs to be custom fit for each installation as every boat is built differently and has a variety of propulsion options. Its' only purpose is to provide a stable platform that moves with the engine for mounting the bracket assembly. There are a multitude of techniques and we provide guidance on design for all engines. Normally, it is a simple inexpensive item usually constructed from angle iron (preferred) or tubing.

The pictures at right show a 95-210 alternator installed on ZRD^TM bracketry on two different engine manufacturers (top - Yanmar 4JH3, bottom - Westerbeke 63C4) using similar, but specific engine attachment techniques. Engine attachment (stable base support) variations are due to the many engine and vessel configurations. There may be items such as filters, pumps, hoses, or other components that end up as obstructions. We provide assistance to yourself or the installation source by suggesting a variety of methods that may solve your situation. The on-site installation source must make diligent measurements and will be the ultimate authority that makes the final decision. ZRD's continued efforts for improvement has simplified this process to a new ease. Our newest brackets have milled slots standard that allow for a very simple one-time alignment of the ZRD bracket onto the 3" angle iron (platform) during installation.

U shaped Engine Attachment with Balmar series 95 alternator mounted in ZRD Bracket on a Yanmar 4JH3

"U" shaped EA on a
Yanmar 4JH3

L shaped Engine Attachment with Balmar series 95 alternator mounted in ZRD Bracket on a Westerbeke 63C4

"L" shaped EA on a
Westerbeke 63C4

Shown on the right, is one of two 500hp Yanmar diesels installed on a truly custom 57' motor yacht. They are the main source of all system power and accessories. Each provides a source of 12vdc, 24vdc, 120vac, and hydraulics.

A ZRD bracket is attached below the aft accessory power take off pulley. The PTO pulley selected (used) in this installation allows for four (4) 1/2" V-Belys to be used. Two of the sheaves (forward) are being used to drive a Balmar 24 volt 97 series alternator. The two aft sheaves are being reserved for future accessory expansion needs. If you look carefully, the prop shaft is visible below the alternator.

Directly mounted Balmar series 97 alternator using ZRD Bracketry multi-faceted alignment

As noted earlier and displayed in the variety of sample installation pictures shown above, the ZRD bracket universal design does allow for a myriad of installation types, possibilities, and tensioning. Limits are only self imposed beyond the small amount of space required. You should feel reassured to be choosing a ZRD solution.

Full detail, electrical system design / modification as necessary, and phone support during installation (some mentioned above) is provided free of charge with a system purchase. Our product line and service is unbeatable and the most cost effective on the market, especially when compared to unknowledgeable, non-productive, or overpriced sources.

The specifications shown below may be used as a guide in determining clearances (fit) for your particular installation. Additional items that may (probably) be needed for a correct installation are PTO (power take off pulley), wiring, modification of switching, and 3" angle iron as mentioned above.

Alternators

We carry the full line of Balmar Alternators, Regulators, equipment.

2008 Balmar Product Guide

For complete details (2.20mb pdf),
click on the Balmar Product Guide
logo. Use Back Button to return.

Regulators & Special Products

Balmar Regulator Systems

Centerfielder

Digital Duo Charge

Series 95 Specifications

Balmar Series 95 Specifications

Series 97 Specifications

Balmar series 97 Specifications

Smaller 604-150 Alternator

Balmar 604-150

This smaller alternator is designed for those that need less power, slightly smaller footprint, or have a smaller battery bank. The picture above shows the 604-150 alternator with a non-standard serpentine pulley. Normally, second alternators are installed with two 1/2" V belts.

On the right, is a Series 97-EHD. It is available for higher 12vdc (265 amp) or 24vdc (190 amp) output. It does not have a bi-directional fan for reverse mounting.

97-EHD Specifications

Balmar Series 97-EHD Specifications

If the conditions mentioned above are not limiting factors, we highly recommend a ZRD 95-210 package for most vessels requiring a high output alternator to charge their house bank.

Note:
If desired, ZRD will provide a custom electrical schematic (see the link AC & DC Schematics - under FAQs) that covers the major 12 vdc and 120 vac components. It will show their relationships such that your plans for a desired electrical system upgrade or replacement will be assured and may be easily implemented. Also, if requested, additional components will be included in the schematics to assist future desired plans or expansions.This option, a $680 value, is provided free of charge when a major electrical system upgrade is purchased. Contact ZRD for details.