Racecars need more than just high octane fuel to function — they also need enough electrical power to keep the vehicle running. There are plenty of racers that still use an alternator and they all have different power needs that could change due to vehicle upgrades. Powermaster makes getting the right alternator easier with its XS Volt alternator option.

One of the best things about the XS Volt control system is that it allows you to buy one alternator that will work with multiple electronics systems. You might start out with a 12-volt system, but eventually could need 16-volts of power…an XS alternator is designed to service both of those systems.

Todd Ryden from Powermaster explains how the XS Volt feature works.

“The XS Volt option features a unique Voltage Control System that allows the voltage output to be adjusted from 13.5-18.5 by the user. This feature helps racers keep their electronics at full operating voltage, which is especially important for the ignition and fuel pump. Adjustments are made through an easily accessible potentiometer with a 3/4 of a turn, on the digitally-controlled regulator. This advanced regulator reacts to output changes in milliseconds compared to analog regulators.”

Powermaster makes alternators for just about every application you can think of and they all have the XS Volt feature as an option. If you want to upgrade alternators to an XS model, you might want to consider making some other changes to your electrical system to get the most out of the additional power.

“When upgrading alternators, once you know that the brackets and pulley are correct, it’s time to consider the charge wire of your system. If you’re stepping up in current output, a new charge wire of thicker gauge should be used. Powermaster offers high quality, pure copper, multi-strand cable with hydraulic crimped terminals in a number of lengths and sizes. Also, a ground wire of the same gauge as the positive, from the alternator housing to the engine bock should be installed on higher output models,” Ryden explains.

Ryden also adds that the pulley you select is important, too.

“Pulley selection is imperative to the charging system’s operation. A typical streetcar has a 3:1 ratio, meaning the alternator spins three times as fast as the crankshaft pulley. In drag racing, a ratio of 2:1 is desired due to the high-RPM and the drain of the electrical components under load at the top-end. Powermaster offers different diameter pulleys to match most requirements.”

Making sure you’ve got the correct amount of voltage is important to keep your electrical system happy. It allows you to ensure your ignition and fuel system are getting the amount of juice they need to function properly. To learn more about Powermaster’s XS Volt line of alternators you’ll want to check out the company’s website right here.