12 Volt vs. 24 Volt applications and conversion

On occasion we get requests for 12 volt starting motors and alternators as conversions for 24-volt system applications. ESS has taken the position that we cannot honor a request of this type. The exceptional cranking power delivered by 24-volt systems versus 12-volt are well documented and necessary in many situations. As a result many OE applications, specifically those servicing large displacement diesel engines or those whose use is anticipated for extreme cold, are specifically equipped with the more powerful 24-volt systems. Perhaps the biggest advantage to the 24-volt system is that the higher the voltage applied to a starting motor the less amperage needed to energize it. Because of this, the 24-volt system will produce much more cranking power with less overall battery drain. This is especially important when trying to start diesel engines in extreme cold weather.