Installing a 2,000 watt inverter?

I used a 2000 watt inverter back in 2003 during a blackout to power a small seven cubic foot chest freezer. I used the spring clamp leads and didn't need to run the engine all the time. With larger loads it would trip on under voltage so I needed to run the engine. I figure at idle you can get 40 to 60 amps from the alternator so figure 500 watts constant power without draining battery.

So if I really wanted 2,000 watts I would need a 250 amp or more? I would not see myself needing that very often but I would like to have the potential.

Desertprep said:

So if I really wanted 2,000 watts I would need a 250 amp or more? I would not see myself needing that very often but I would like to have the potential.

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For how long would you need 2000 watts? If it is for 15 or so minutes every hour, then a primary or secondary trunk AGM battery might be a better use of funds than changing the alternator.

rjacket said:

For how long would you need 2000 watts? If it is for 15 or so minutes every hour, then a primary or secondary trunk AGM battery might be a better use of funds than changing the alternator.

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Car Alt are rated amps at 6000 rpm and 72F at core temperature. Goes downhill from there.
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Buying a 2000 watt inverter generator is the best choice if you need that amount of power. It would be cheaper and more logical than wasting the car's engine life.

I'd just get a mini 2000 generator. I bought one at Harbor Freight years ago for $325. Great off the grid or during power outs.