bigger alternator 100 amp

noslow1986

New Member
Mar 25, 2006
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oswego Il
is a 100 amp to much. not running speakers amps noting just underdrive pulley. just seems its not getting enough power. it does have a b cam. when i start it, its rough but the lights go dim and have to keep it running with foot on gas once its warm up its ok but idle drops downs a little and lights dim.. only computer codes are air diverter. no emissions but still running egr valve.:bs:
 
There's really no such thing as "too much" in terms of the how many amps an alt is capable of putting out.

It doesn't mean that there will be 100 amps coursing through your electrical system any time it's turning. It will only put out UP TO 100 amps depending on the demand you have on your electrical system.

If you do plan on putting a demand on your electrical system that is over and above stock then you will need to upgrade your wiring. The stock power wires are not capable of sustaining a 100 amp (or even 80 amp) continuous draw for any length of time.
 
Andy summed it up nicely.

Also, nearly any alt will suck at super low RPM's. It sounds like that's your issue. If your idle is low, you could try bumping it up to 800-900 RPM (or whereever the voltage goes up when you hold the gas pedal down).

Good luck.
 
I second what Hissin said. When my car idles at 750 my 130amp alternator still has a hard time charging the battery. The lights wont really dim unless i have the heat on high or putting the windows Up/Down. When i pick the idle up to 900 it doesnt draw nearly as bad. Check out some of the 3G alternator conversions using the search function. Its a really easy swap that should only take you a couple hours...and it really pays off! I got my 130 amp from the junkyard...the thing looks brand new and came with a lifetime warranty...all for $50. good luck
 
Upgrade your alternator, or put an overdrive pulley on it. If your headlights are dimming, you need more amps.

A 100 amp alternator will only be capable of putting out 40 or 50 amps at idle. If you are underdriving it, it might only be capable of 30 amps. Your headlights and HVAC fan can draw more than that.