black99cl

I'm looking to improve the output from my alternator for the system. I've seen factory re-wound alternators on ebay for like $160, or I could find someone around here to do it. Or I could just put in a new aftermarket hi-output alternator. Has anyone on here done this? Any suggestions?

dustbuster4

I opted for a high-output alternator. I just installed a 180-Amp alternator on Christmas. I was struggling with the large power draw on the original alternator. When I had my two 1400 watt amplifiers, fog lights, seat heaters, heater, and headlights on at the same time, three things would happen. 1) When the bass would hit, the dash lights would dim, 2) when the windows go up or down, all lights would dim (including headlights), and 3) when the cooling fan kicked on, all lights would also dim.

This was eliminated as soon as I swapped the alternators.

I got my alternator off of eBay for $149.00 plus shipping from a reputable dealer. Let me know if you're interested.

black99cl

was that the factory rewound alternator I see on Ebay all the time? Did it use the factory wiring harness & bracket?

dustbuster4

Yes, it is.

The wiring harness fit perfectly (not sure if it's factory or not). There was no bracket on my alternator. I used what was on the car.

black99cl

Awesome. I think I'm gonna get that same alternator off of Ebay. Thanks!

bl^5

Well fellas my expereince is this... I had to replace the alternator in my old ride after about 150K miles. I was running two amps at about 500 watts total, thus not creating a huge drain on the alternator. I replaced the alternator with a "factory rewond" one and I had to replace it again within 4 months and again within another 4 months. The alternators had lifetime warranties so I didn't have to pay for the replacements, but I did have to do the labor myself, a real b*tch, not to mention my car would be out of commision for a bit throwing off my schedule etc. The second time one of the "factory rewond" alternators went out, I put in a brand new one (much more expensive but well worth it). Needless to say I didn't have any more alternator problems.

My lesson learned:

I will never ever buy a factory rewond alternator. The hassle just wasn't worth it.

Now this may just be my bad luck...

Austin519

dustbuster4:
I want to hear more about this alternator you bought. I was told at least for the TL's that a high output large case alternator would not fit, thus the necessity to wind a small case alternator...aka rewind the factory for 180amp output. Currently I'm getting a group together to do it through Ohio Generator, one of the biggest names in that business, and who Rockford Fosgate uses exclusively for their demo cars. However, if I was misinformed let me know, or do you buggers just have more space under the hood than we do?

Austin519

dustbuster4

Here's the link to the current eBay action from the seller that I got mine from. The hi-output alternator case is the same size as the OEM one. It was a tight fit (but so was the stock alternator).

Check with this guy to see how he may help.

Alternator

Austin519

dustbuster4:
Ah...that may answer my Q then...I think us TLers and the newer CLers are still screwed and need a rewind. I think that's what you purchased as well by the way...though yours may be just labeled "high output" as it is rewound standard. Hmmm...

Austin519