Powermaster alternators and wiring
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 27
Likes: 0
wow sorry, I forgot to post the link... 
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/PWM-67802/
140 amps, what gauge do I need and how long of a wire?
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/PWM-67802/
140 amps, what gauge do I need and how long of a wire?
Le Mans Master
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 9,272
Likes: 17
dont think you'll need a longer one but you will need a larger diameter 'gauge' charge wire to take advantage of the full 140 amps. other than that, have fun.
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/PRF-30709/
its a cut to fit
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/PRF-30709/
its a cut to fit
Last edited by oldalaskaman; Jun 2, 2012 at 07:31 PM.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 8,735
Likes: 412
From: WV
Why do you need a higher output alternator? Are you running alot of equipment that needs the extra power? If not the 105 amp stock alternator is more then adequate for running whats on the car, plus a few add ons...WW
Team Owner
Joined: Dec 1999
Posts: 34,873
Likes: 487
From: Lacey WA RVN 68-69
NCM Sinkhole Donor
Unless you have some real need for the increase, there is no real reason to upgrade. The stock alternator provides more than enough amperage for a stock car.But some of my friends who are employed as ASE-certified auto repair techs that have done lots of electrical upgrades in Corvettes and muscle cars say to stay away from Powermaster. Cheap internal components tend to fail.
Have you considered finding a local shop that rebuilds alternators and getting the existing alternator upgraded to produce a higher output?
Racer
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 310
Likes: 47
The alternator failed on my 1991 when I was vacationing in Virginia Beach (about 200 miles from home). A guy used his jump box to get me started at a restaurant called "Beach Bully" and pointed me in the direction of the closest Advance Auto Parts. Advance had two versions of the alternator (good and better) but only the "good" one in stock. I don't believe it was more the $30. I bought it figuring that I could get a better one later. Used their tools to install it in the parking lot under a 95 degree blazing sun in my bathing suit (one of the guys in the store helped me get the serpentine belt off). Took about 30 minutes for the swap. That was 2000 and, believe it or not, that alternator is still in my car and going strong 12 years later!
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Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 27
Likes: 0
I don't need the higher output but have been told it doesn't hurt, and it's almost the same price for a 105 and a 140 amp powermaster.
Instructor
Joined: May 2013
Posts: 129
Likes: 0
Going to resurrect an old thread.
I am installing a Powermaster CS-130 on my 1990 L98. I purchased it because of their good reputation and great price I was able to pick it up at. I have no additional accessories on the car. Do I really need to swap my wire? I was going to install the stock and look for a voltage drop between alternator and battery.
BTW...they are calling for an 8awg wire for the 130.
I am installing a Powermaster CS-130 on my 1990 L98. I purchased it because of their good reputation and great price I was able to pick it up at. I have no additional accessories on the car. Do I really need to swap my wire? I was going to install the stock and look for a voltage drop between alternator and battery.
BTW...they are calling for an 8awg wire for the 130.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 7,839
Likes: 22
From: San Diego, Ca
The CS130 has an idle output of about 25 amps - or at least that's what a member found the last time someone hooked up a Clampon Meter to the Charge wire. Barely sufficient at low speeds (a worn blower motor will draw that). GM issued a Service Bulletin chastising Dealerships for replacing it (and telling them they wouldn't reimburse them) just because the headlights dimmed on customer's cars with most of the accessories running. Alternators are rated at maximum output which isn't achieved until 1200 - 1500 rpms. Nor are they rated hot - or at engine compartment temps which is nowhere near what most Discounter's perform when they check yours out. These guys have more info, how to rebuild and other options: www.alternatorparts.com