I have to upgrade the factory 75 amp alt on my 89 5.0. I am looking at the Powermaster 8-57100, their 100 amp unit. I am running an elec fac, U/D pullies, NO A/C & NO big stereo. Will this alternator be enough? Anyone using/used this unit?
Thanks
check the corral classifieds. i bought a remanufactured 130A unit from a guy selling them for less than $80 and it made a large improvement over stock output. all i did was notch the bracket and run 4 gauge stereo wire to the starter solenoid. im sure 100A is adequate, but if you want do a search both here and there im sorry i couldn't remember his username.
i might go ahead and go with something larger (ie 130 amp) unit. you are gonna have to do some work (modifications, wiring, etc) anyhow, and that way you can add electrical items if the needs arises.
good luck.
Use theses sites for information on the right way to do the wiring. Some people will tell you that you can skip the wiring upgrade, but it will catch up with you sooner or later. A fire in the wiring harness is ugly and expensive.
Under no circumstances connect the two 10 gauge black/white wires to the 3G alternator. If the fuse blows in the 4 gauge wire, the two 10 gauge wires will be overloaded to the point of catching fire and burning up the wiring harness.
Electric fan = 3G alternator if you want long life & reliability from your car.
Figure this:
Ignition system & computer = 12 amps
Fuel pump = 12 amps
Exterior lights = 15 amps
Fan (heater or A/C) = 15 amps (can run between 5-25 amps depending on setting)
Radio & instruments = 10 amps
Wipers = 10 amps
That's grand total of 74 amps from a 65 amp alternator. Talk about overdrawn at the bank!
If you want to upgrade further check out www.paperformance.com ...they sell good 130 amp alternators and you can buy their wire upgrade kit along with it and you won't have to go searching for parts and mismatching things and they come with their own instructions that are very easy to read and in color...