1980 alternator question
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 5,948
Likes: 72
From: Oxford MA-----You just lost the game!!!!
1980 alternator question
Hi guys!
I have a 1980 Corvette. I put a serpentine belt setup on it years ago, and have always had problems with the power steering pump reservoir, so I'm reverting to the v-belts. I'm looking for an alternator bracket. There is an aluminum bracket, (which I think is the one my car came with, but it has been lost in the shuffle over time) and a cast iron bracket. The cast iron bracket can be found, the aluminum bracket is scarce and expensive when you can find one. The cast iron bracket is said to be unusable with the 70 amp alternator, which I think is the alternator I have. Does anybody know why the cast iron bracket can't be used with the 70 amp alternator?
Scotty
I have a 1980 Corvette. I put a serpentine belt setup on it years ago, and have always had problems with the power steering pump reservoir, so I'm reverting to the v-belts. I'm looking for an alternator bracket. There is an aluminum bracket, (which I think is the one my car came with, but it has been lost in the shuffle over time) and a cast iron bracket. The cast iron bracket can be found, the aluminum bracket is scarce and expensive when you can find one. The cast iron bracket is said to be unusable with the 70 amp alternator, which I think is the alternator I have. Does anybody know why the cast iron bracket can't be used with the 70 amp alternator?
Scotty
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 5,948
Likes: 72
From: Oxford MA-----You just lost the game!!!!
I'm talking about the bottom alternator bracket, the part that bolts to the cylinder head. Here are two links that describe the pieces in question:
Iron bracket: C3 Corvette 1972-1982 Cast Iron Alternator Bracket - 350ci | Corvette Mods
Aluminum bracket: Original GM Alternator Bracket for 1980-1982 Corvette -- P/N 14015510 | eBay
Here is the pertinent phrase from the iron bracket description: Note: This mounting bracket fits all 1972-1978 C3 Corvettes with 350 engines and all 1979-1982 (replaces aluminum bracket) C3 Corvettes except those with 70 amp alternators.
Scotty
Iron bracket: C3 Corvette 1972-1982 Cast Iron Alternator Bracket - 350ci | Corvette Mods
Aluminum bracket: Original GM Alternator Bracket for 1980-1982 Corvette -- P/N 14015510 | eBay
Here is the pertinent phrase from the iron bracket description: Note: This mounting bracket fits all 1972-1978 C3 Corvettes with 350 engines and all 1979-1982 (replaces aluminum bracket) C3 Corvettes except those with 70 amp alternators.
Scotty
Last edited by scottyp99; Jan 13, 2022 at 08:54 PM.
Team Owner
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 53,648
Likes: 878
From: Southern Cal Ca
St. Jude Donor '22
I'm talking about the bottom alternator bracket, the part that bolts to the cylinder head. Here are two links that describe the pieces in question:
Iron bracket: C3 Corvette 1972-1982 Cast Iron Alternator Bracket - 350ci | Corvette Mods
Aluminum bracket: Original GM Alternator Bracket for 1980-1982 Corvette -- P/N 14015510 | eBay
Scotty
Iron bracket: C3 Corvette 1972-1982 Cast Iron Alternator Bracket - 350ci | Corvette Mods
Aluminum bracket: Original GM Alternator Bracket for 1980-1982 Corvette -- P/N 14015510 | eBay
Scotty
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 5,948
Likes: 72
From: Oxford MA-----You just lost the game!!!!
Race Director
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All of those S10, S12 Alternators mount the same. Perhaps just because the 70 amp Alternators came with the alloy bracket they are listing it as not correct.
Team Owner
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 53,648
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From: Southern Cal Ca
St. Jude Donor '22
since the alt is standard for most years, the only thing that pops to mind is how the bracket attaches to the engine.
Apparently the cast steel/iron mounts different than the alumn one.
Not seeing it or how your engine is, I guess I would have to trust the alumn that came on 80-82.
if your links have pics, maybe something will stand out when you compare the 2?
There are still just yards that handle vettes C3s.
Not a lot of part though.
If you have the gm number for the alumn, it will help.
Apparently the cast steel/iron mounts different than the alumn one.
Not seeing it or how your engine is, I guess I would have to trust the alumn that came on 80-82.
if your links have pics, maybe something will stand out when you compare the 2?
There are still just yards that handle vettes C3s.
Not a lot of part though.
If you have the gm number for the alumn, it will help.
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Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 5,948
Likes: 72
From: Oxford MA-----You just lost the game!!!!
since the alt is standard for most years, the only thing that pops to mind is how the bracket attaches to the engine.
Apparently the cast steel/iron mounts different than the alumn one.
Not seeing it or how your engine is, I guess I would have to trust the alumn that came on 80-82.
if your links have pics, maybe something will stand out when you compare the 2?
There are still just yards that handle vettes C3s.
Not a lot of part though.
If you have the gm number for the alumn, it will help.
Apparently the cast steel/iron mounts different than the alumn one.
Not seeing it or how your engine is, I guess I would have to trust the alumn that came on 80-82.
if your links have pics, maybe something will stand out when you compare the 2?
There are still just yards that handle vettes C3s.
Not a lot of part though.
If you have the gm number for the alumn, it will help.
Scotty
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Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 13,090
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From: Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia
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Pretty sure it'll be fine!
Safety Car
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 4,353
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From: Seattle Area Washington
When I went to a 80 AMP alternator from a 61 AMP (cast iron mount) on my 77 the mounting was the same.
The differences between the 2 are the physical diameter.
Because the 80-82 and some 79 use a larger rotor and stator the housings are larger, from 5.27" on the 37-63 AMP to 5.73" on the 70-85 AMP.
I have the L82 valve covers installed (taller than the tin) so when I want to remove/replace the belt it is quite snug getting it on/off.
I could go 1/2" longer belt length but it's not much of a problem.
The differences between the 2 are the physical diameter.
Because the 80-82 and some 79 use a larger rotor and stator the housings are larger, from 5.27" on the 37-63 AMP to 5.73" on the 70-85 AMP.
I have the L82 valve covers installed (taller than the tin) so when I want to remove/replace the belt it is quite snug getting it on/off.
I could go 1/2" longer belt length but it's not much of a problem.
Safety Car
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 4,000
Likes: 299
From: New York
Hi guys!
I have a 1980 Corvette. I put a serpentine belt setup on it years ago, and have always had problems with the power steering pump reservoir, so I'm reverting to the v-belts. I'm looking for an alternator bracket. There is an aluminum bracket, (which I think is the one my car came with, but it has been lost in the shuffle over time) and a cast iron bracket. The cast iron bracket can be found, the aluminum bracket is scarce and expensive when you can find one. The cast iron bracket is said to be unusable with the 70 amp alternator, which I think is the alternator I have. Does anybody know why the cast iron bracket can't be used with the 70 amp alternator?
Scotty
I have a 1980 Corvette. I put a serpentine belt setup on it years ago, and have always had problems with the power steering pump reservoir, so I'm reverting to the v-belts. I'm looking for an alternator bracket. There is an aluminum bracket, (which I think is the one my car came with, but it has been lost in the shuffle over time) and a cast iron bracket. The cast iron bracket can be found, the aluminum bracket is scarce and expensive when you can find one. The cast iron bracket is said to be unusable with the 70 amp alternator, which I think is the alternator I have. Does anybody know why the cast iron bracket can't be used with the 70 amp alternator?
Scotty
Le Mans Master
Joined: Feb 1999
Posts: 8,351
Likes: 75
From: Tampa Bay FL
Hi guys!
I have a 1980 Corvette. I put a serpentine belt setup on it years ago, and have always had problems with the power steering pump reservoir, so I'm reverting to the v-belts. I'm looking for an alternator bracket. There is an aluminum bracket, (which I think is the one my car came with, but it has been lost in the shuffle over time) and a cast iron bracket. The cast iron bracket can be found, the aluminum bracket is scarce and expensive when you can find one. The cast iron bracket is said to be unusable with the 70 amp alternator, which I think is the alternator I have. Does anybody know why the cast iron bracket can't be used with the 70 amp alternator?
Scotty
I have a 1980 Corvette. I put a serpentine belt setup on it years ago, and have always had problems with the power steering pump reservoir, so I'm reverting to the v-belts. I'm looking for an alternator bracket. There is an aluminum bracket, (which I think is the one my car came with, but it has been lost in the shuffle over time) and a cast iron bracket. The cast iron bracket can be found, the aluminum bracket is scarce and expensive when you can find one. The cast iron bracket is said to be unusable with the 70 amp alternator, which I think is the alternator I have. Does anybody know why the cast iron bracket can't be used with the 70 amp alternator?
Scotty
I am searching a couple other sites.
This is an alternative: https://www.ebay.com/itm/15269373305...8AAOSwPwpeK0oO
Doc rebuild has the aluminum bracket as well as the top steel bracket. You can even get the belt guard attachment for the upper arm and all hardware:
The lower aluminum bracket: https://shop.docrebuild.com/1979-198...015510NOS.aspx
The top steel bracket: https://shop.docrebuild.com/1979-198...M14015511.aspx
On Doc's site, you even can view a diagram of the assembly (handy).
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 5,948
Likes: 72
From: Oxford MA-----You just lost the game!!!!
When I went to a 80 AMP alternator from a 61 AMP (cast iron mount) on my 77 the mounting was the same.
The differences between the 2 are the physical diameter.
Because the 80-82 and some 79 use a larger rotor and stator the housings are larger, from 5.27" on the 37-63 AMP to 5.73" on the 70-85 AMP.
I have the L82 valve covers installed (taller than the tin) so when I want to remove/replace the belt it is quite snug getting it on/off.
I could go 1/2" longer belt length but it's not much of a problem.
The differences between the 2 are the physical diameter.
Because the 80-82 and some 79 use a larger rotor and stator the housings are larger, from 5.27" on the 37-63 AMP to 5.73" on the 70-85 AMP.
I have the L82 valve covers installed (taller than the tin) so when I want to remove/replace the belt it is quite snug getting it on/off.
I could go 1/2" longer belt length but it's not much of a problem.
Scotty
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 5,948
Likes: 72
From: Oxford MA-----You just lost the game!!!!
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 5,948
Likes: 72
From: Oxford MA-----You just lost the game!!!!
Here is an option from eBay:https://www.ebay.com/itm/11512019995...BoCuPAQAvD_BwE
I am searching a couple other sites.
This is an alternative: https://www.ebay.com/itm/15269373305...8AAOSwPwpeK0oO
Doc rebuild has the aluminum bracket as well as the top steel bracket. You can even get the belt guard attachment for the upper arm and all hardware:
The lower aluminum bracket: https://shop.docrebuild.com/1979-198...015510NOS.aspx
The top steel bracket: https://shop.docrebuild.com/1979-198...M14015511.aspx
On Doc's site, you even can view a diagram of the assembly (handy).
I am searching a couple other sites.
This is an alternative: https://www.ebay.com/itm/15269373305...8AAOSwPwpeK0oO
Doc rebuild has the aluminum bracket as well as the top steel bracket. You can even get the belt guard attachment for the upper arm and all hardware:
The lower aluminum bracket: https://shop.docrebuild.com/1979-198...015510NOS.aspx
The top steel bracket: https://shop.docrebuild.com/1979-198...M14015511.aspx
On Doc's site, you even can view a diagram of the assembly (handy).
Scotty
Living the Vette life....
Joined: Mar 2018
Posts: 554
Likes: 221
I think I may have a NOS 80-82 aluminum bracket in my storage unit but would have to check to be sure. On a different note, I am running a 140 amp alternator in place of the stock 70 amp. I did have to get a different length belt though which wasn't surprising.
Safety Car
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 4,000
Likes: 299
From: New York
Race Director
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 13,090
Likes: 7,713
From: Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia
2025 C3 of the Year Finalist - Modified
2024 C3 of the Year Finalist- Modified
2022 C3 of the Year Finalist - Modified
Cruise-In VIII Veteran
I also run a 140 amp Alternator as I have some non standard electrical loads. I still have the iron bracket that came with the car. It's just bolted to aftermarket heads.
As per the stock belt. That I am certain I am not running.
But what's a V belt cost in the big picture here.
As per the stock belt. That I am certain I am not running.
But what's a V belt cost in the big picture here.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 6,663
Likes: 1,359
scottyp99
I have a 68 and have used the cast iron bracket with a couple of different heads and it has fit with the original alternator, and 94 amps 12 si, and now with a 140 amp CS-144..... buy it on ebay -- they're a lot cheaper than that ridiculous 200 dollar price.
Here you go: You want to get part number AlternatorBracket 3951337 . It's what I have on my 68 with holes in the head. Below is a link with lots more info and pictures. Pictures of mine are there also. That bracket was used on a lot of short water pump vehicles so don't overpay.
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...post1599025318
my setup below with a 68 corvette short water pump: https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...post1599025910
I have a 68 and have used the cast iron bracket with a couple of different heads and it has fit with the original alternator, and 94 amps 12 si, and now with a 140 amp CS-144..... buy it on ebay -- they're a lot cheaper than that ridiculous 200 dollar price.
Here you go: You want to get part number AlternatorBracket 3951337 . It's what I have on my 68 with holes in the head. Below is a link with lots more info and pictures. Pictures of mine are there also. That bracket was used on a lot of short water pump vehicles so don't overpay.
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...post1599025318
my setup below with a 68 corvette short water pump: https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...post1599025910
Hi guys!
I have a 1980 Corvette. I put a serpentine belt setup on it years ago, and have always had problems with the power steering pump reservoir, so I'm reverting to the v-belts. I'm looking for an alternator bracket. There is an aluminum bracket, (which I think is the one my car came with, but it has been lost in the shuffle over time) and a cast iron bracket. The cast iron bracket can be found, the aluminum bracket is scarce and expensive when you can find one. The cast iron bracket is said to be unusable with the 70 amp alternator, which I think is the alternator I have. Does anybody know why the cast iron bracket can't be used with the 70 amp alternator?
Scotty
I have a 1980 Corvette. I put a serpentine belt setup on it years ago, and have always had problems with the power steering pump reservoir, so I'm reverting to the v-belts. I'm looking for an alternator bracket. There is an aluminum bracket, (which I think is the one my car came with, but it has been lost in the shuffle over time) and a cast iron bracket. The cast iron bracket can be found, the aluminum bracket is scarce and expensive when you can find one. The cast iron bracket is said to be unusable with the 70 amp alternator, which I think is the alternator I have. Does anybody know why the cast iron bracket can't be used with the 70 amp alternator?
Scotty