Alternator swap
Thread Starter
Drifting
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 1,847
Likes: 1
From: Iowa
Cruise-In IV Veteran
Cruise-In V Veteran
Alternator swap
I have this annoying "sys" that starts flashing 3 times every 20 seconds when I have the stereo amp (250w), headlights and heater fan running at the same time. I'm assuming I am exceeding the output of the factory alternator, (or it's just getting tired).
Is swapping out the alternator for one with increased output a simple R & R procedure? Any pitfalls I should be aware of...voltage regulator, wiring, etc?
Karl
Is swapping out the alternator for one with increased output a simple R & R procedure? Any pitfalls I should be aware of...voltage regulator, wiring, etc?
Karl
Drifting
Joined: Nov 1999
Posts: 1,801
Likes: 2
From: St. Paul MN
Re: Alternator swap (MagikDraggin)
I have a huge stereo with two big Alpine amps. I went to a well known local rebuilder shop and talked to the guy there. He sold me a rebuilt that he said he built with the best parts, I can't remember what he said it would put out. But now when I crank it up with the lights on they don't flicker with the bass notes like before. The alternators in our cars are kind of known to be a weak link. It's nice that they are so easy to change. Good Luck.
Thread Starter
Drifting
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 1,847
Likes: 1
From: Iowa
Cruise-In IV Veteran
Cruise-In V Veteran
Re: Alternator swap (Bob86ZZ4)
Thanks for the response, Bob. I realize I ask some pretty dumb questions here, and many probably feel it is beneath them to bother with an answer.
I look at it this way. If I was an "expert" on everything, I wouldn't be asking. I hate surprises.
Thanks again.
I look at it this way. If I was an "expert" on everything, I wouldn't be asking. I hate surprises.
Thanks again.
Safety Car
Joined: Feb 1999
Posts: 3,504
Likes: 4
From: Mexico Beach FL
Re: Alternator swap (MagikDraggin)
Has anyone tried the super high output "Mean Green" alternators yet? http://www.mean-green.com/products/alternator.html
Tom Piper
Tom Piper
Drifting
Joined: Nov 1999
Posts: 1,801
Likes: 2
From: St. Paul MN
Re: Alternator swap (Tom Piper)
Their web site makes them look like a pretty nice alternator, and starter too for that matter. Interesting that they don't really tell you where to go to get one. You have to contact them it looks like. I also couldn't find a price anywhere. That makes me think they might be rather pricey. But heh, if we were trying to save money we wouldn't be driving Vettes now would we?
Safety Car
Joined: Feb 1999
Posts: 3,504
Likes: 4
From: Mexico Beach FL
Re: Alternator swap (Bob86ZZ4)
Their web site makes them look like a pretty nice alternator, and starter too for that matter. Interesting that they don't really tell you where to go to get one. You have to contact them it looks like. I also couldn't find a price anywhere. That makes me think they might be rather pricey. But heh, if we were trying to save money we wouldn't be driving Vettes now would we?
Tom Piper
Melting Slicks
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 3,019
Likes: 0
From: down that one road next to that big tree
Re: Alternator swap (Tom Piper)
the other thing i found out is the local parts stores who rebuild them sometimes offer "good" rebuilds if you pay a little more. they can use better parts, higher output stuff etc...i've blown 4 alternators in a year..rpms and heavy loads kill the cheapies
Safety Car
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 3,767
Likes: 5
From: Jacksonville Fl
Re: Alternator swap (Bob86ZZ4)
The alternators in our cars are kind of known to be a weak link. It's nice that they are so easy to change.
If you have an electrical problem with the 96, you just might have a bad alternator...which is uncommon for that model. Have it tested, and if you still need a higher capacity alternator, you will have to look into stereo shops for super high current models...they are out there, but they are very expensive.
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Safety Car
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 3,767
Likes: 5
From: Jacksonville Fl
Re: Alternator swap (Bob86ZZ4)
While we are on the topic Bob, I solved all my 87's alternator problems by switching to a '96 unit. I had to do some minor bracket clearancing, but other than that is was pretty much bolt in and go.
If you have any more problems, like low voltage at idle with AC/Fans/Stereo/Lights on, the 96 alternator will definitely solve it.
If you have any more problems, like low voltage at idle with AC/Fans/Stereo/Lights on, the 96 alternator will definitely solve it.
Drifting
Joined: Nov 1999
Posts: 1,801
Likes: 2
From: St. Paul MN
Re: Alternator swap (BBA)
That's good to hear. Has this info been around on the Forum? I never have seen any posts about it but that doesn't mean it hasn't been posted. When (notice I said "when" not "if") my alternator goes out I will look into that '96 upgrade then. I wonder if it would work on my '87 Chevy van? I've only had to put a couple alternators in that.
