upgrade alternator

[bigbidule]

Hello. I would like an alternator more powerful on my Excella. But without any other modification ( wires / univolt / batteries separator/...) . Please, what power max would you advise me to buy ( and brand, type). Thank you. Marc

[overlander63]

Without modifying wiring or mounting brackets, you will need to stick with the Delcotron type. How many amps is your current one?

[PeterH-350LE]

1984-81 GM 7.4L(454) - MG Industries Inc.
I don't know much about their alternators, just been using their excellent, trouble free starters

[bobmiller1]

Rock Auto is your best bet on a Factory new alternator (Delco) brand new about $80.00....Keep your original as a spare. You may also want to replace all battery cables as age becomes an issue with voltage drop problems. The second phase of my overhaul includes replacing all chassis 12 volt wiring pertaining to alternator,isolater,starter.

[bigbidule]

Ok. I don't know amperage but I have a problem of priming (? , initiating ? I don't know the right word ). I have to run the motor about 3000 rm to start alternator and get between 12.5 - 13V...perhaps the regulator ?

Alternator Mean Green seems very powerful ( gain 300% !!! )...

Rock Auto is cheaper.

Sure, I have to change all big wires which are cracked.

[bigbidule]

ok, my alt is 63 Amp. can I change it with a 100 Amp. without problem (isolator ? )

[HiJoeSilver]

Yes, the rating tells you max amps it can put out, if doesn't always put that many amps out. The voltage regulator will regulate how many amps it will actually put out. Over rated is ok as long as it physically fits in the space available.

[bkahler]

You also need to verify the wire gauge size from the alternator to the isolator. It needs to be considerably heavier for a 100 amp alternator compared to a 63 amp unit.

Odds are your motorhome is already properly equipped as I think the motorhomes came with higher output alternators than stock. When it comes time to replace the original alternator it's usually an emergency and most people end up going to their local parts store and buying whatever alternator they can get their hands on which is usually a lower output unit.

Brad

[bigbidule]

bkahler, I think you'r right and alternator of excella is more powerful than 63A.... I am just ordering a 140A (!!!) to Summit Racing (120 us$ / 220usd with shipping and taxes). I will change the wire from alt to isolator and....wait and see .

[bigbidule]

And I change also my isolator with that for 45 $ : Victron Cyrix battery combiner (12/24v-120A) : better than a diode system !