info on upgrading alternator - Diesel Forum

josiahsupertramp · 03-02-2007, 03:24 PM

the alternator in my van is the 130amp stock alt, i want to put in a stronger one (165amp, i think) so that i can run some extra laod on it with no probablem. does anyone know if i can just switch it out or is there anyhting else that ill need to change.

Mr_Roboto · 03-02-2007, 07:41 PM

The largest factory Ford alternator is the 130 amp 3G. You could switch to a Leece-Neville for 200+ amps, but you are looking at $500 for the alternator at least.

What are you running that draws more than 130 amps? That's a tremendous amount of power.

If you are having problems with low output at idle, a bigger alternator won't fix that. You need to increase the engine speed for the alternator to give it's max output. Ambulances come with an idle up switch for that purpose. The 130 amp 3G produces about 80 amps at idle.

ddog · 03-03-2007, 08:56 AM

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The largest factory Ford alternator is the 130 amp 3G.

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F and E-series Ambulance packages from around 94-97 could be had with the Mitsubishi, Dual rectifier, brushless 215 amp alternator(Use the Tim Allen Home Improvement Voice followed with the Huh Huh Huh [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]). Uses the same T mount style frame as the 3G only needs longer bolts. This thing is a beast and weighs around 40lbs.Approximately one inch larger in diameter than a large case 3G. Its also an expensive alternator.

I bought one to put in my van (that is now Sold,leaving this am at 9:00) as part of my plan to install an inverter and turn the van into a 7.3L diesel generator for hurricane season. Still have the altenator, if anyone's interested.

My measurements indicate the the Mitsubishi Alternator will fit the current van bracket with no mods, it does not appear as though Ford changed the bracket on the van like they did in the F series (you have to grind the newer 7.3 F Series bracket to even take a large case 3G Alternator). The mitsu takes the standard Ford rectifier plug, stator jumper is not used. Charge wire size needs to be upraded as well and a Maxifuse added at the battery(s)to set it up like the factory.

Super_Dave · 03-03-2007, 10:43 AM

I bought an alternator off ebay from a guy that sells higher amperage stuff. My '96 has a 200a alternator. I have four total batteriers with a 2000 watt inverter. At idle, it puts out more amps, which has been very nice.

I don't have the link for the guy, but it was an easy replacment on my bus. My cost from the Ford dealer I used to work for on the Mitsubishi ambulance alternator was a ton of money. This one was pretty darn reasonable. More expensive, but I don't think it was $270 shipped.

blageurt · 03-03-2007, 02:28 PM

My guy here in Toronto can build anything you want . I'm sure you can find a Good Automotive Electric Rebuilder in your area. Thats whatI would do .Bring it to your local Reabuilder , tell him what you want and he should be able to build it. All they need is the casting as a starting point.

josiahsupertramp · 03-03-2007, 07:18 PM

thanks for the info.
ill be installing a veggie therm, which is an electric heater for my veggie oil system. i also wanted to charge a third battery for an inverter as i will be converting my bus into a rv and doing long term travel. but im still kicking around the idea of solar panels for the inverter so well see.