So do I need to upgrade my alternator and battery to set up my 1500 power inverter in my work truck? Or should I just add a capacitor? I'd like to be able to start the truck and run my compressor and or saw. Without burning my truck up!! Anyone else done something similar??

 

Not sure what alternator you have now but yes, using a 130amp alternator or higher will help

You can see what stock alternators will work here: https://www.therangerstation.com/tec...ternator.shtml

ALL Alternators only generate 60% of AMP rating at idle, engine RPMs need to be above 1,600 to get full AMPs
So you will want to install a manual throttle control so you can set high idle when using the inverter

Yes, if you only notice dimming lights at idle when bass notes "hit" then a couple of capacitors will help, or the higher AMP alternator

Most later model Rangers had 95 amp alternators so that's about 57 amps at idle, a running vehicle with all lights on and blower on high uses about 45amps, so plenty of amps for stock electrical system
Alternators have 3 Fields in their metal case, these are what generate the electricity/amps
It is very common for one of these fields to fail as an alternator gets old, so it only generate about 75% of rated power, its not a 1/3 less because of voltage regulator
So at idle the 95amp alternator generates 57amps, then with one bad field it generate 43amps
You know this has happened because head lights will dim a bit at idle, 45amps needed, but only 43amps available

No, dimming head lights are NOT normal, lol, a field has failed, not a big deal because all is well when driving, but its NOT normal on any vehicle

Mentioning this because your current alternator may have a bad Field, so needs to be swapped out anyway

 

"Big 3" wiring mod.
130 Amp Alternator with large gauge with/fuse at the battery.
Cap.