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I have decided to make the switch to a CS type alternator. I have searched and read all the data on the forum. I have a couple of questions.
1) Is the CS144 case bigger, and if so are there any clearance issues with stock valve covers. Is it a bolt up job.
2) I have found CS130s on line that have been built to 140 amps. Is there any reason to choose the CS144 @ 140 amps over the CS 130 @ 140 amps. Price is not an issue.
3) I want to buy new, so does anyone have part # for the CS130 and the CS144.
I have decided to make the switch to a CS type alternator. I have searched and read all the data on the forum. I have a couple of questions.
1) Is the CS144 case bigger, and if so are there any clearance issues with stock valve covers. Is it a bolt up job.
Case is bigger, no clearance issues, not quite a bolt up job.
2) I have found CS130s on line that have been built to 140 amps. Is there any reason to choose the CS144 @ 140 amps over the CS 130 @ 140 amps. Price is not an issue.
CS144 came originally designed to provide 140amps, CS130 has issues with reliability. I had a CS130, it died and I switched to the CS140, it's so far out lasted the 130.
3) I want to buy new, so does anyone have part # for the CS130 and the CS144.
No p/n but mine is from a '98 chevy p/u if that helps.
No part number, but I bought my CS144 new from Napa for a '96 Impala, and it fit great without any clearance issues, had to modify the wiring a little but nothing too difficult. I would go with the 144 over the 130, I believe they put out more amps at idle (good if you have electric fans) and they run cooler in the larger case.
The CS130 has a heat weakness which causes the reliability issues. I have seen cars with a CS130 last for 200K miles, so I think it really depends on the conditions, maintenance, and stock electrical system. Some cars or trucks may have been overloaded.
Here is a direct bolt in CS130. No changes will need to be made to the brackets to install this alternator.
It's brand new with a warranty, and won't even cost $100 shipped.
By the way, if you're ever interested in rebuilding a used CS130, I solved the heat problem with a simple part removal, and all is well. You can do this to a new one as well but you will void the warranty by opening the case.
I bought a CS144 from the local Delco rebuilder to use on my truck. It was just under $200. Used '96 Roadmaster as an application. Hands down I would recommend a CS144 over a CS130. Reliability on the CS130 leaves MUCH to be desired. If it was as simple as removing a part to make it reliable, I promise you GM would have done that a long long time ago.
I just did a cs144 from a '96 Impala. I got the alternator for $100 with an exchange unit from Autozone. They also had the plug pigtail for $8. Had to modify the uppertension bracket some, but otherwise went on easy.
I just did a cs144 from a '96 Impala. I got the alternator for $100 with an exchange unit from Autozone. They also had the plug pigtail for $8. Had to modify the uppertension bracket some, but otherwise went on easy.