Balmar high-output alternators – maximum charging power for on-board batteries on boats & yachts
A powerful alternator is the most efficient and reliable way to charge batteries on board quickly and with almost no maintenance. Especially on long passages, blue-water voyages, frequent stays at anchor or with high energy demand from inverters, air conditioning and watermakers, a modern high-output alternator ensures a safe and independent power supply.
Since mid-2021 philippi has been the official distributor of Balmar alternators and regulators for easy upgrades of Volvo and Yanmar engines – especially important for lithium battery systems so that charging under engine is reliable.
In brief: Balmar is a US alternator manufacturer specialising in efficient charging with the inboard diesel. Balmar builds alternators optimised for slow-running marine diesels with high efficiency and low heat generation.
Why a high-output alternator?
Standard alternators often deliver only 30–40 A at idle – far from enough for modern systems with lithium batteries, inverters and power-hungry loads. As a result, the batteries are not charged fast enough while the engine runs, engine hours increase and battery life suffers from permanent partial charging.
A Balmar high-output alternator delivers much higher charge currents and charges the battery bank in a fraction of the time – less engine running, more energy on board. When the upgrade is worthwhile and how to size it correctly is explained in the guide Alternators on boats.
Balmar alternator series at a glance
Series 6 – compact marine alternator (70–120 A)
Balmar Series 6 alternators offer high output in a compact housing and are available in all four common mounting configurations. They feature Balmar's Smart Ready® technology: if battery loads are relatively low and the engine runs frequently, the internal regulator can be sufficient.
For larger battery banks, lithium batteries or short engine running times – as in most sailing applications – we recommend combining them with the Balmar ARS-5 or MC-618 regulator. All sets are supplied with alternator, regulator and two temperature sensors.
Available models:
| Model |
Output |
Voltage |
Feature |
| Series 6 |
70 A |
12 V |
Entry level, Smart Ready® |
| Series 6 |
100 A |
12 V |
Best seller |
| Series 6 |
120 A |
12 V |
For larger battery banks |
XT series – high output up to 250 A (12 V & 24 V)
The XT series offers alternators up to 250 A and is suited to systems with very high energy demand, large lithium battery banks or twin-engine installations. It is available in various mounting configurations – including Hitachi style for Yanmar, Westerbeke, Lehman and Perkins-Sabre engines.
97XD series – more output at low engine speeds
The 97XD series delivers more current at low engine speeds – important when motoring slowly, entering harbour or during anchor manoeuvres, when engine speed is low but charging demand is high.
Intelligent Balmar regulators
Only the external regulator turns the alternator into a full charger. It charges all battery types – including lithium – with the right profile and continuously measures the alternator temperature to prevent overheating and failure.
Balmar MC-618: further development of the proven MC-614, with communication to the Balmar SG200 battery monitor, display on a 2-inch colour screen and optional Bluetooth smartphone app. For 24 V systems there is the MC-624.
Balmar ARS-5: multi-stage regulator for the Series 6 – battery-friendly charging curves for all battery types.
Engine compatibility – which engines are Balmar alternators available for?
Balmar offers suitable alternators for common marine diesels from Volvo Penta, Yanmar, Perkins, Vetus, Ford and Nanni. As official distributor, philippi stocks sets specially matched to Volvo and Yanmar engines:
- Alternator 12 V / 100 A for Volvo engines
- Alternator 12 V / 100 A for Yanmar engines
- Alternator 12 V / 120 A for Volvo engines
- Further output levels and engine adaptations on request
The alternator configurator determines the right combination of alternator, regulator, bracket and belt.
Belt conversion kits – a prerequisite for high charging power
Above about 100 A, classic V-belt systems often reach their limits. To fit larger alternators, conversion kits from V-belt to serpentine (ribbed) belt are available.
Switching to a serpentine belt offers several advantages: much better power transmission at high currents, less load on engine bearings, less rubber dust in the engine room and the possibility of fitting alternators up to 250 A. Suitable kits are available for many current and older marine engines.
Ideal for lithium batteries and modern energy management
Combined with lithium batteries (LiFePO4), the result is a powerful and reliable charging system. The external regulator controls charging voltage, current and termination precisely to the requirements of each battery type – for maximum service life and best use of capacity. What else to consider when converting is covered in the article Converting from AGM to lithium.
Frequently asked questions about Balmar high-output alternators
Why do I need an external regulator?
The internal regulator of a standard alternator only provides a fixed voltage. An external Balmar regulator such as the ARS-5 or MC-618 charges with a battery-specific profile in bulk, absorption and float stages, monitors alternator and battery temperature and can communicate with battery monitors. With lithium batteries it is practically essential.
Can I simply replace my existing alternator with a Balmar?
In many cases, yes. Balmar alternators come in the common mounting styles, so they directly replace the standard alternator. Above roughly 100 A a classic V-belt is often no longer sufficient; then a serpentine belt conversion kit is needed. The alternator configurator shows which combination suits your engine.
Which engines does philippi stock Balmar sets for?
philippi stocks sets for Volvo Penta and Yanmar, matched to the mounting and pulley of each engine. For other makes such as Perkins, Vetus, Nanni and Ford, Balmar alternators are available on request. Tell us the engine type and year of construction and we will check the right version.
What is Smart Ready® technology?
Smart Ready® is a Balmar feature of the Series 6: the alternator first works with its internal regulator, which is enough for small systems with frequent engine running. If the battery bank grows or lithium is added, an external Balmar regulator is simply connected. The alternator itself does not need to be replaced.
Is the Balmar alternator suitable for 24 V systems?
Yes. Balmar offers alternators for 12 V and 24 V systems, in our range including 70 A, 90 A and 140 A at 24 V. The regulator must match the system voltage; for 24 V there is the MC-624. Twin-engine installations also require a Max Charge regulator kit.
