Increase alternator output or adjust idle?

[sqcomp]

Out of curiosity, why would a battery help if it's not making the vehicle's power after it starts?

[CTScott]

Originally Posted by sqcomp

Out of curiosity, why would a battery help if it's not making the vehicle's power after it starts?

The battery is basically a capacitor once the car is running. It keeps the voltage from sagging too far if the alternator can't source enough current. The problem is that the stock battery and alternator combo are sized for just the standard load. If you run equipment that draws more than stock, you will find that after starting the battery will take a few minutes or so to get back to a full charge.