Can ms3 ultimate handle 16volt Systems?

[93supercoupe]

Not sure why, but I assumed the new ultimate could operate with 16v (charging at 18v)

The manual says anything after 18v, it goes into circuit protection

I found a couple older posts that say the original ms3 pro can handle upto 22v

Anyone know if the ultimate is really capped at 18?

[93supercoupe]

Surprised this isnt getting a response considering how many race cars are 16 volts.

My car has a 16volt battery in it right now. I assume ill need to charge at 18volts to maintain, does that sound correct?

[billr]

I gotta ask... why do race cars run 16V?

[Paul_VR6]

More power! Usually they run with no alternator, the extra voltage keeps it high enough to last a pass. Even with an alternator you get more rpm from electric fuel and water pumps and hotter spark from certain ignitions. A side benefit is easier cranking on high compression engines.

[93supercoupe]

Im mainly doing it because the chassis i bought has a nice 16v battery and electronics and i have to custom mount an alternator anyways (motor plate)

And my last car, struggled with voltage last year with the stock LS alternator. And 16v puts me in a good spot on the pump curve for my fuel pump.

[jeffmarsh750]

Yes, just remember ohms law with solenoids and drivers. Amp load goes up with increased voltage.

[Matt Cramer]

It's actually the same protection circuit - we simply had been using the conservative side of the MOV's data sheet for 18V max. The 22V is an absolute limit set by a zener diode, and a TVS as well on the Ultimate.