Definitive answer...

[Brett2807]

Hi all, I am after a definitive answer on the alternator on my 2020 2.8 Lux. I've been told by a mechanic that it doesn't have a Variable rate (smart) alternator but then told by a leading dual battery installer/supplier that it does.
Now I can't see any extra type of wiring coming off the main battery to indicate that it is a Variable rate, but wanted to consult you all to confirm either way.
Cheers Brett

[Bushwalker8]

They are kind of both right. I don't know for sure if anything has changed on the 2020 build (unlikely) but the earlier builds such as my 2016 Hilux definitely have something in-between known as a "Temperature Compensating Alternator".

The voltage drop is not as much as a full "Variable Voltage Alternator" but it does vary.

[Brett2807]

Thanks Bushwalker8, just curious as I have a Piranha DB180 from a previous vehicle that I was going to use. I'll do a bit more googling. Thanks again.

[Frawls]

Temperature Compensating Alternator Is my vote on a 2018 2.8 Hi Lux. Was only playing with the camper charging system today. System is REDARC Manager 30 with TVMS. Trigger is set to auto, no ignition wire fitted.
It charges although it cycles 30 amp then zero, over and over does not charge at a constant rate. Any comments?

[DeadlyBeast]

https://www.redarc.com.au/how-do-i-know-if-i-have-a-variable-voltage-smart-alternator

[Bushwalker8]

The Hilux Temperature Controlled Alternator is pretty predictable, when it's cold after the vehicle is first started it runs at full charge to top the battery back up and once warm it drops the voltage to around a reasonably constant 13.5 volts.

As a comparison the variable voltage alternator of my Subaru Outback diesel is all over the place like a yo-yo depending on numerous variables. Without the headlights on it can drop as low as 12.5V which is below the 12.7V off threshold of the Redarc SBI12 isolator and randomly and annoyingly disengage it.