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And the site below tells you how to figure out which adapter to buy for your CS-144 tie in to your 12SI: I also added the key paragraph below in case you cannot open it.
"If you are unsure which adapter to use, measure the resistance of the exciter line. Disconnect the positive battery cable and the alternator plug. Connect an ohm meter between the #1 terminal on the plug end of the alternator harness and the end of the positive battery cable. Turn the ignition key to the "on" position and read the ohmmeter. If resistance is less than 35 ohms, use adapter #8078. If it’s between 35-350 ohms, use #8077. If it’s more than 350 ohms, you have excessive resistance somewhere in that circuit which needs to be repaired, first."
Want to thank all members for input. In my particular case, after hours of reading, I have decided to go with a GM 12SI 110amp 3-wire alternator. It is reasonably priced, direct replacement, and more than adequate for the upgrades I will be making. Just a sidenote to any members who may be planning an upgrade to the CS-130. I read some horror stories on this alternators design and performance. It seems that it was so bad, it has been replaced with a completely different model, designated the CS130-D. Thanks again!
12 SI is the way to go. Easy to get and install. A stock 94amp would have been more than enough and probably less expensive too. It may even perform better at low RPM than the 110amp unit.
The cs-130 had some problems,but it was mostly heat related. A QUALITY rebuilt unit was superior to the OE design and eliminated most problems. The OE unit on a rear wheel drive car or truck (better cooling) could be expected to go 100,000 miles. The same unit on a transverse mounted motor (lots of heat and less cooling) would only get about 50,000. For its size and good low RPM out put the CS has some good uses.
This sounds like the route I want to go also. Where is the best place to purchase a GM 12SI 110amp 3-wire alternator. I dont see them available in the normal places like autozone, napa etc.
This sounds like the route I want to go also. Where is the best place to purchase a GM 12SI 110amp 3-wire alternator. I dont see them available in the normal places like autozone, napa etc.
Good source for info regarding 12SI alternators. They can be had at any auto parts store if you know the application or part number; these are listed near the bottom of the page. You will have to "reclock" it for a corvette and change pulleys.