Answer
Oct 20, 2025 - 06:30 AM
The two alternators, Balmar 96-48-100-K8 and Balmar 96-48-60-K6 are the same price, ($2668 as of October 2025). One is optimized for low rpm but has a max of 60 amps output, the other is maximized for high output at high rpm and can put out up to 100 amps. Most people choose the 60 amp model because for most people performance at lower rpm is more useful. The Balmar MC-620-H Voltage Regulator for 48 volt alternators is $446 as of October 2025. Temp sensors are sold separately. Note that neither of the above alternators can accommodate a pulley change because the shaft is too short for the other Balmar pulleys.
We do have other 48 volt alternators. The Arco 4603 Alternator 48V 8kW DF4, Side Battery Post, Externally Regulated, Isolated Ground, 49mm K6 Pulley is $2143.90 It has the same 4" dual foot mount as the Balmar but is quite a bit cheaper. Its sustained cruising output hot at 6000 alternator RPM is 138 amps and at idle of 3000 RPM it puts out 78 amps. The Arco regulator is a true 48 volt one unlike the Balmar which is powered from 12 volts. It costs more but it comes with temp sensors. Here is what Arco has to say about that:
We do have other 48 volt alternators. The Arco 4603 Alternator 48V 8kW DF4, Side Battery Post, Externally Regulated, Isolated Ground, 49mm K6 Pulley is $2143.90 It has the same 4" dual foot mount as the Balmar but is quite a bit cheaper. Its sustained cruising output hot at 6000 alternator RPM is 138 amps and at idle of 3000 RPM it puts out 78 amps. The Arco regulator is a true 48 volt one unlike the Balmar which is powered from 12 volts. It costs more but it comes with temp sensors. Here is what Arco has to say about that:
