Alternator Upgrade

[Wilfred of Ivanhoe]

For my 71 4x4 project I am looking to upgrade the alternator. I have shopped around some and talked to a local starter/alternator guy, but I could not find what he was recommending.

I want a single wire alternator (has the internal voltage regulator) that has a higher output. Mounting on the stock brackets is not a requirement for me but that would be easier . I have a stock wiring harness/electrical system at the moment.

I have been told that the stock alternators from the dent sides can accommodate my goals, but I want to know what I am getting before I make any purchases. I also understand that some parts are not comparable with our stock systems without wiring/other upgrades. The electrical world is not my strong point. Does anyone have any to add or somewhere I can read up on what I am looking for? Anything that anyone else has done similar to this? Thanks in advance!

[Nitekruizer]

Pretty sure that the alternators from the Dentsides won't have internal regulators. You'd likely have to look at trucks from the mid-late 80's. There were some higher amperage alternators that use the original regulators that would be easier installs. Remember, the output current doesn't flow through the voltage regulator so, a higher amp alternator won't fry the VR. I think that is how I would do it, although it would be a good idea to run a heavier wire between alternator output and battery.

If you want an internal VR type alt, I think there's a sticky at the top of this forum.

[sargentrs]

Start with this
http://www.fordification.com/forum/view ... =8&t=13062. Then research here.
http://www.madelectrical.com/electrical ... wire.shtml

[Lee]

Search the site for 3G alternator.

I just converted my truck last month.

VERY easy conversion. Got mine off of a 1995 Mustang with a 3.8L.

You end up with 130 amps.

Lee

[Wilfred of Ivanhoe]

Thanks guys. I will look into this more. Sounds like 3G is popular.