[TenTec] boost mobile voltage?

[Stuart Rohre]

Indeed, Ten Tec rigs are designed to operate at 13.8 volts which is full
output on many alternator/ battery systems in cars.  With the alternator Not
boosting the older battery, you may fall to 12 volts or less, and
instability happens in the rig.  Your car battery develops higher self
impedance over time.  You might try a bypass cap to see if that helps, but a
new battery might be all it takes to make the mobile use viable.  My Scout
goes unstable at 10 volts or so, and this is the variability of the internal
voltage regulator.   You might try substituting a low drop out regulator the
for the stock one in the Scout.

However, some scheme to keep the voltage at 13.8 is the best.   You might
explore an AC inverter to then power a switching power supply.

Don't forget to try loosening, cleaning and retightening all your mobile DC
connections: Alternator, battery, leads to frame, body, etc.  Make sure your
rig dc goes direct to battery and use no. 14 wire or larger to avoid voltage
drop.  Make sure the fuse holder is not heating up in use.

GL,
Stuart
K5KVH