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Alternator Upgrade Update 120-130

posted by  dwestlin on  Tue Feb 14 09:47 CST 2006
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last visit: Mon Feb 5 04:34 CST 2007
[RELATED]

A few weeks ago I asked for advice on replacing the stock Bosch generator with either an ACDelco alternator with the SwEm kit, or a Bosch Alternator. After many helpful comments, I decided to install the ACDelco with the SwEm kit.

I'm very pleased with the results. The kit was $100, an alternator $105 (including core charge), and a few odds and ends plus a new batter cable about another $25.

The hardest part of the swap-out was getting the old generator out of the car. It took about an hour of dealing with stripped bolt-heads and bandaging scraped knuckles, but it came out.

Installation of the new alternator was a snap. Rewiring took some forethought, but it simple enough. The alternator is not chrome and not as ugly as one would think.

The improvements are remarkable, and many. Stronger ignition, brighter headlights. My heater fan actually produces air, not just an annoying whine. The windshield washer produces a stream, not a feeble trickle.

In short, well worth the time and money. I can't believe I suffered a weak generator for as many years as I have. For anyone who hasn't yet made the upgrade, I can't recommend it enough.

Thanks to Ron Kwas and everyone else for their advice and for sharing their experiences.








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    Alternator Upgrade Update 120-130

    uid 36160's pic
    posted by  i_r_taz on  Fri Feb 17 04:43 CST 2006
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    last visit: Mon Aug 18 03:54 CST 2008
    [RELATED]

    I put a 100a alternator in and then read, after the fact, that Ron
    doesn't advise that because of the wiring.

    Now for my son's 122 sedan I bought one from summit racing!
    It's chrome, 80a, internal regulator, $75, and 1 wire to the
    battery is all she needs.

    I have not hooked it up yet so i will let eveyone
    know what happens once I do.

    Here is the link to the alternator if anyone is interested.

    http://store.summitracing.com/default.asp?Ntt=chrome+alternatoir&searchinresults=false&Ntk=KeywordSearch&DDS=1&N=115&target=egnsearch.asp&x=15&y=13

    Scroll down to PRO-66445-8N


    I know it is not stock but the alternator upgrade is the best
    thing I have done for the car!!!

    Karl







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    Alternator Upgrade Update 120-130

    uid 29256's pic
    posted by  1963SlateBlue122 on  Tue Feb 14 11:16 CST 2006
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    last visit: Mon Aug 12 18:52 CST 2013
    [RELATED]

    I was about to order a kit from Swem too but my regulator lasted a while longer and in the meantime, I ordered an IPD bracket for my B-18. I found a 55-amp Bosch alternator from a junked 140 with air conditioning that tested perfect. Also installed brand new wiring, battery cable, and a voltage regulator.

    I, too, could not believe the difference in the brightness of the headlights and instrument panel. My turn signals even click faster.

    I paid $160 for alternator and new cables/wiring, including professional help with installing. The IPD bracket is $45.

    I am very happy with the upgrade.







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