OhioLariat

My battery light is coming on and voltage is dropping at high RPM (~3750+). I'd throw the alternator from my '99 in, but it has 270K miles on it (or could have.. I can't know for sure) and I don't think I can trust it, so I'm looking to get a new or reman' d 130+ Amp replacement.

Suggestions on an economical and reliable source would be appreciated.

EDIT: For reference, I have a 400-watt amplifier and 100-watt Hellas in addition to the regular 5.4 accessories.

Also, the serp belt is new, and tensioner is in the middle of its range.

Thanks,

Andy

Carcrazygts2

Napa Premium 200 amp. I got one. They also have a upgraded alt harness for it. Its pricey but well worth it. Mine makes 168 amps at idle and 218 @ 1800.

blupupher

iTrader: (2)

That is pretty impressive, but looks like the alternator and harness are about $500.
If you need that power, it is a great deal.

I went cheap, I got a new "Carquest" branded alternator from Advance Auto for around $160. Never have checked what it actually puts out (supposed to be 130 amp).

Wolvee

While I usually like to say buy Ford parts, the Alternator is one of those things that if you buy new you still run the risk of it failing but at 2-3x the cost of an Autozone Lifetime warranty unit.

That's what I went with. Easy, no hassle replacements if it's needed. 3 years on mine and it's been just fine. Back in the late 90's to early 2000's Autozone and Pep Boys couldn't make/supply an Alternator or Starter worth a damn but it seems these days if you buy new replacement or lifetime, you get a something with a good shot of lasting.

OhioLariat

Thanks for the info so far, guys. Doing some quick math, it appears that even with the AC running full blast, stereo cranked, and hi-beams and Hellas blazing, 110 amps or so covers the bases, so a 200-Amp unit probably isn't necessary (especially since the 130-Amp-Rated 3G Motorcraft alts are said to put out more like 160). The issue at this point seems to be knowing which ones will actually perform to spec. There are so many options.

EDIT: Think I'm going to check out a local rebuilder, as well.

Andy

mbb

Theres usually local shop that repairs alternators.

About only thing needs replace 99% if time is diode bridge

Reman use cheap parts, not even to spec often

OhioLariat

I just sent an email to a local rebuild shop in The Springs asking about pricing, but you're right... If they typically only repair/replace what's needed, that will make a big difference. And I've heard that some parts-store reman units get the bare minimum for replacement parts. That newly "remanufactured" 234,000-mile core could have just a fresh coat of paint and new brushes.

On the other hand, with all the "offshore" manufacturing today, even a new one probably isn't on par with the OEM unit.

Andy

mbb

My wife had an isuzu trooper, i tried several cheap alts in, they didnt work right. It would totally die on you driving down road when warmed up. The computer was very sensitive to having exact right voltage. The oem was $400...20 yrs ago

But my $95 autozone replacement into z71 lasted 1.5x + the oem, and was working fine when sold truck at 242000

I once helped buddy put 4 different reman alts into crown vic before lights/codes went off. All supposed to be same, several had different trouble indications that showed. My take was they were a hodgepodge of reused parts from different model vehicles

Phil03

I agree with getting a local electrical shop to rebuild it. I've used the guy here a few times on other vehicles and hasn't cost me more than $100 each.

OhioLariat

I didn't expect to hear anything until Monday, but got an email back a short while ago. Rebuild on the 3G alternator "starts at $45.00 for bearings and brushes and tops out at $110.00." Warranty is just 90 days, but a "lifetime" warranty on a unit I may have to replace isn't really a benefit. I'm going to give him a call Monday, explain what's going on with this thing, and go from there.

Andy