Installing our high amp alternator will be a direct bolt-in installation unless otherwise notified before purchase. Proper performace, though requires more than standard installation expertise. Keep in mind that you are not installing a stock alternator and it will not function the same on your car as your stock alternator does. The most common problem you may experience on initial installation is low out put at idle. This problem is easily solved with system upgrades that we describe below.
If you are not prepared to make needed system upgrades or feel you will not need to make those upgrades for whatever reason, please do not attempt this project.
High amp alternators are very RPM, WIRE GAUGE and BATTERY sensitive. These three things are absolutely necessary for optimum performance -
#1 - The positive battery cable to alternator MUST be upgraded to heavier gauge wire according to the amperage of the new alternator. Please refer to chart on the technical information page for correct wire gauge size needed.
WARNING - IF THE POSITIVE BATTERY WIRE IS NOT UPGRADED, YOUR NEW HIGH AMP ALTERNATOR WILL NOT FUNCTION CORRECTLY!!!
#2 - A smaller than stock pulley is used on the 200 amp and 250 amp alternators to achieve maximum output at engine idle speeds. A worn or stretched alternator belt that is working fine on your stock alternator will slip on a high amp alternator and cause a no charge or low output condition due to excessive torque created by the new high amp alternator. In some cases even a new stock size belt will slip.
For that reason, in some cases a shorter than stock belt is needed. This is not always necessary on the 160 amp and 170 amp upgrades.
WARNING - UPON INITIAL INSTALLATION OF YOUR NEW HIGH AMP ALTERNATOR, IF YOU HAVE VOLTAGE READINGS OF 12V OR LOWER AND WHEN YOU INCREASE ENGINE RPM THE VOLTAGE READING INCREASES TO 13-14V, YOU HAVE A SLIPPING BELT OR INCORRECT PULLEY RATIO OR BOTH.
**** WHEN YOU HAVE THESE SYMPTOMS, THE ALTERNATOR IS NOT BAD ****
#3 - A fully charged heavy duty battery is a must. Alternators do not charge dead batteries and batteries must be fully charged with a battery charger before installation. If your battery is located in your trunk then you will have to consider that distance when selecting wire gauge size.
If you are attempting to install a high amp alternator with a battery isolator, you must make sure that the isolator is installed and wired correctly.
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