Input on need for two Alternators 2005 F350

[D9 Mechanic]

I am putting together a request for a new F350 DRW and I would
like some opinions on the need or use for two alternators. I am aware
that the the vehicle comes with two batteries. Is the second alternator
redundent? When it is installed, is each alternator dedicated to one
of the two batteries?
I cannot seem to get the same answer twice from all the different sales people I have talked with. They are an imaginative group of people and I assume that none of them really own one of these vehicles or really knows why you might want two alternators.
Why two alternators and not two AC's, or two hydraulic pumps, etc. etc.

Appreciate any opinions or light that you might shed on the
subject.

Thanks,
J C

[ModMech]

The dual alternator option is for people who tow a lot and need to charge up their RV batteries while towing, or for those who have snow plows installed as they are electrically operated (large electric pumps).

Unless you are planning on installin a plow, it is NOT an option I would buy, not at all.

[D9 Mechanic]

Thanks for the info. I had an inkling that this was
the case. Are you aware of rather the alternators are dedicated to each battery or just hooked up
to a common bus?

Thanks again

[ModMech]

The alternators work in parallel charging both batteries (the batteries are also in parallel).

[WickedNYCowboy]

If your going to tow alot especially a trailer with brakes I highly suggest getting the dual altenator option. Are you opting this out for a Powerstroke of V-10. I find that with the powerstrokes 2 alternators tend to do a better job of keeping everything running with tip top shape. At work we just got in 2 of the new trucks with tow command loaded King RanchFX4 F-350 Crew Long bed Powerstrokes. We haul car trailers. Some open some enclosed. I will also be using to haul a 24x8 gooseneck dump trailer and 18x8 stock bumper pull. I also tow with a sirrea denali. I like towing with both have their pluses and minuses. But the Q-Steer on the denali is great power of the diesel wonderful as well. Depends on your set up and use plan for it.

[D9 Mechanic]

Originally Posted by WickedNYCowboy

If your going to tow alot especially a trailer with brakes I highly suggest getting the dual altenator option. Are you opting this out for a Powerstroke of V-10. I find that with the powerstrokes 2 alternators tend to do a better job of keeping everything running with tip top shape. At work we just got in 2 of the new trucks with tow command loaded King RanchFX4 F-350 Crew Long bed Powerstrokes. We haul car trailers. Some open some enclosed. I will also be using to haul a 24x8 gooseneck dump trailer and 18x8 stock bumper pull. I also tow with a sirrea denali. I like towing with both have their pluses and minuses. But the Q-Steer on the denali is great power of the diesel wonderful as well. Depends on your set up and use plan for it.

Thanks for the reply. I just ordered the f350 today. They had one tricked out a few hundred miles from here but it did not have the 2nd alternator. I decided to take your advice and opt for the second alternator. Should get it in about 6-8 weeks. Thanks again for your input.