1986 alternator on an 85 ?
Can you put a 1986 alternator on an 85 ? Is it just a plug connector difference?
http://www.novaresource.org/alternator.htm
IIRC , The CS130 Alt used on later TPI engines uses the same plugs as the CS144
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c3-t...onversion.html
Last edited by vetteoz; Oct 25, 2012 at 10:03 PM.

Now if you aren't rushed it looks like Amazon (got to luv em) is less than $14
PT2145 ACD or GM 88861073
From Summit: 7625B looks correct and the NAPA EC82
If you wanted to check the resistance using your '85 connector this should do 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 you'd like to construct your own "adapter" or just "cut&splice" here's how a C3 owner did his "adapter" from scratch:
http://temp.corvetteforum.net/c3/zma...ternator01.htm
Last edited by WVZR-1; Oct 26, 2012 at 06:52 AM.


I have an 86 and installed a 94 alternator.
It is a bolt on, and all you have to do is go to Auto Zone, and buy a plug-in connector to install the alternator for $6. The 92-96 alternator is a direct fit, and is the same size as your old alternator, and you can buy them for around $35-$50 bucks used.
I have an 86 and installed a 94 alternator.
It is a bolt on, and all you have to do is go to Auto Zone, and buy a plug-in connector to install the alternator for $6. The 92-96 alternator is a direct fit, and is the same size as your old alternator, and you can buy them for around $35-$50 bucks used.
Also your swap was from a CS130 to a CS144 - Larry's is from a 17SI to a CS.
Last edited by WVZR-1; Oct 26, 2012 at 10:41 AM.
It can easily be done with the adapter (click link below)
http://www.parts123.com/parts123/yb....Z5Z5Z50000050F
This is why i had to use the 86-91 alternator on my 85 cause the 85 one was too big and would have hit the hood.
It can easily be done with the adapter (click link below)
http://www.parts123.com/parts123/yb....Z5Z5Z50000050F
This is why i had to use the 86-91 alternator on my 85 cause the 85 one was too big and would have hit the hood.

WOW.......good reason! How does she run?? Some serious plumbing going on there!


Here in AZ, in the summer, the solder melts off the CS130 alternator. THe CS144 seems to handle the heat much better, and has a higher charge rate at idle.
If he uses the 130, he will have to find a 86-87 alternator upper bracket and hardware. If he uses the 144, he can use the stuff he already has plus the connector.
Last edited by coupeguy2001; Oct 26, 2012 at 11:43 PM.
The Best of Corvette for Corvette Enthusiasts
Here in AZ, in the summer, the solder melts off the CS130 alternator. THe CS144 seems to handle the heat much better, and has a higher charge rate at idle.
If he uses the 130, he will have to find a 86-87 alternator upper bracket and hardware. If he uses the 144, he can use the stuff he already has plus the connector.
Looking at '85MY bracketry it seems it's a single year only application so
if it requires the '86MY+ bracket then the game might change. There's no doubt the CS144 would be a preferred. Not ever having done this you mention the CS144 can be accomplished with the '85MY bracket? Might you explain?
Which CS144 is considered a "bolt on" for the '85MY?
Last edited by WVZR-1; Oct 27, 2012 at 12:29 AM.
I never considered the 94 alternator, if it is better, then of course,,, why not, this is why I asked teh CF guys, you guys are the best!


The reason the 85 upper bracket is a one year only, is that the 85 alternator is the same diameter as the 144. So, since it is the same dia, the upper bracket clears the hood. When they switched to the 130, the bracket curve changed to reflect a more ridgid angle for robustness. I later made a stabilizing bracket for the back of the alternator that goes to cyl#3 and is longer. That way, less exhaust heat makes it's way into the alternator.There were no wiring changes either. I just plugged it in and added a ground wire just to be safe.
Oh, I used a 92 -96 corvette alternator.
Larry wouldn't have to change the upper bracket like I did. He would only have to change it if he uses the 130 alternator.
Last edited by coupeguy2001; Oct 28, 2012 at 12:27 PM.
Tomorrow the moon goes "FULL"!
Larry - it sounds like you've a direction to go now!
I added one 8 gauge wire from the alternator to the battery and I left the stock wire in its place.
all in all it took 1 hour to mount it and hook it up


I bought this one.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/360502064532...S:1123&vxp=mtr














