LT1 Alternator Difference
Thread Starter
Race Director
Joined: May 2001
Posts: 14,165
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LT1 Alternator Difference
Does anybody know the real difference in the LT1 alternators for a fact?
I know at some point during the LT1's life the alternator was changed. I believe that the early LT1's used a CS130 and the later ones used a CS144. Is this correct? Other than the charging property differences, what are the physical differences? Will a CS144 bolt in where a CS130 was originally intended? I know the main positive terminal won't be a problem, but what about the other connection to the alternator? Will it just plug in or does it need to be upgraded as well?
I know at some point during the LT1's life the alternator was changed. I believe that the early LT1's used a CS130 and the later ones used a CS144. Is this correct? Other than the charging property differences, what are the physical differences? Will a CS144 bolt in where a CS130 was originally intended? I know the main positive terminal won't be a problem, but what about the other connection to the alternator? Will it just plug in or does it need to be upgraded as well?
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2001
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From: Athens AL
C7 of the Year - Unmodified Finalist 2021
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To my knowledge, the CS144 started in 93L models and continued until the end. It should be otherwise plug & play, but it is longer than the CS-130, and the rear support will probably not fit.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Mar 1999
Posts: 2,535
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From: Rochester NY
my car is a 93 which has a cs130. 2 yrs a go I went out a bought a 94 vette alternator which is cs144 and it is cheaper to. It is a direct bolt on. Only one bolt were not able bolt up. I left it at that. no problem what so ever.
Race Director
Joined: Aug 2000
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Cruise-In II Veteran
I have a fully loaded 95 olds van,power everything,rear a/c,etc that has this 144 alternator...its the best thing GM put on their cars and trucks since the early 90's...still going strong at 150+K miles...I did have the bearings replaced once before when it made noise but still charging well.Ditch the old POS and get the better one.Wish I did that when I had my 86...it ate alternators all the time,no matter who rebuilt it or sold it new.
