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Thank you for adding your inputs for performance upgrade, it is greatly appreciated! I will start off with the smaller inexpensive modifications first and gradually build up to the more expensive modifications. I have already purchased the 2.5" x-pipe, 40 series Flowmaster mufflers, and Doug's D350 Long Tube Headers, I just need to get the exhaust system installed. I really appreciate you time and help to reply with great information!
Just a couple of small things I will bring up that could save you a little $$$ and some issues in the future.
First, is there a reason you are buying your exhaust with the cut outs?
Living in California, cutouts in the exhaust are illegal.
They will never be an issue, until you get caught driving with the open exhaust.
Even though a 73 is exempt from biannual smog inspection, you can not install any device that will increase the DB noise level on any vehicle.
If you are cited, you will need to remove all non original exhaust components and reinstall the original exhaust.
That’s everything from the engine manifolds to the rear tips.
If you don’t plan to run the exhaust open, save the money and don’t install a system with the cut outs.
Second, do you truly need a 150 amp alternator?
If you are not installing efi, a hi output stereo system and dual electric cooling fans, you can get by with an alternator that puts out lower amperage, save some money and be fine.
Double check with Power Master to see what the output of that alternator is at idle and at cruising speeds to make sure it will work correctly with your needs.
Bigger amperage output rating isn’t always better or what you really need.
Double check that it will work with your wiring (one or three wires) and if you will need to change your volt meter to an ammeter.
Another issue could be the physical size of the alternator and if you will need to replace the original engine brackets just to mount it and possibly change out the pulley size to adjust the idle and cruising speeds output.
Is your Avatar photo a 1973 also, I am looking at the front fender air vent in the photo but cannot tell for sure? I bought a more powerful amp due to interior audio upgrade, which requires more power. The powermaster alternator is working very well without any issues. I am originally a Louisiana native and was not aware of pre-75 cars exhaust cutouts being illegal. My purpose was to get an X-pipe set up for the new 2.5 exhaust system, the cutouts would be a plus for future track fun or if I decided to move back home in the future to Louisiana were performance laws are less restrictive, but I really appreciate you bringing this up. I will keep the cutouts closed due to not wanting any issues with the law.
Your car looks good, have you put a lot of work into your engine and do you plan to do any more upgrades to your car. I love all corvette generations, but I really love C3s!
Why not? That 150 Amp PowerMaster 57294 alternator is exactly what is in my 80. They advertise 100 Amps (available) at idle. Do I need it? Probably not. But the previous alternator could not keep up with the high beams being on. This one is rock-solid at idle with both Spal fans turning (15 Amps each). And there's plenty of extra current available for future projects (electric power steering pump, defroster, fuel pump, EFI, etc).
Does the OP need it right now? Probably not. It needs to be wired properly, and is overkill for most things. But it's only $150-, so I don't know how much money is saved returning the alternator the OP already has, buying a just-good-enough alternator, and then possibly replacing it later if any additional electrical load is added to the car.
Having the 150 amp has been a major plus for me, especially with planning to update audio and possible future add ons that will benefit from a higher powered amp!
The Forum Members have taught this rookie to always balance $$$$$ with H.P. Improvement.
For $200 you can gain 15 H.P with a day's work. .... or 5 H.P. with a week's work .
Use the Expert advice above/ "in Louisiana we call it "making a gumbo".....
you combine the best of all the ingredients!
Is your Avatar photo a 1973 also, I am looking at the front fender air vent in the photo but cannot tell for sure? I bought a more powerful amp due to interior audio upgrade, which requires more power. The powermaster alternator is working very well without any issues. I am originally a Louisiana native and was not aware of pre-75 cars exhaust cutouts being illegal. My purpose was to get an X-pipe set up for the new 2.5 exhaust system, the cutouts would be a plus for future track fun or if I decided to move back home in the future to Louisiana were performance laws are less restrictive, but I really appreciate you bringing this up. I will keep the cutouts closed due to not wanting any issues with the law.
Your car looks good, have you put a lot of work into your engine and do you plan to do any more upgrades to your car. I love all corvette generations, but I really love C3s!
The 73 in my avatar is my car.
I’ve been preparing for the past 7 years to pull the body and do a body off restomod project.
Right now it is completely stripped and ready to go to the painter next month.
I built a 496 and will be converting the auto to a 5 speed with some suspension upgrades.
Thanks for asking.
Thank you adding words of wisdom. My eyes have been opened since reading all of the great information that I have been receiving.
I would have spent a lot of unnecessary money without taking my time and doing some research. I appreciate the great advice
given from everyone and have received more than enough information to help my engine get to 300 hp or a little more.
I am also from Louisiana, so it is good to see another member from back home. Also, your convertible black shark in the photo looks great!
