alternator amps?

[hipshaker]

if getting an alternator conversion, what amps is the best to go for? 55 or 75? is it a case of bigger the better? 1600 engine.

 

[currylager]

The bigger the better usually, but either of those will be fine. but use the latter if you are planning to be a mobile welder or fitting heated seats :lol: .

 

[hipshaker]

ok, 75 amp it is then. thanks.

 

[Force3g]

Does a 75 take more engine power to run than a 55 amp? Does it have a fan on it?

 

[the.fordhams]

The power required to spin an alternator is almost directly related to the work that the alternator is doing, for example if you have all your electrical load 'on' - main lights, brake lights, indicator lights, wipers and you have your stereo up loud - then the alternator is working hard and this takes power from the engine.

How much power? Better to ask how much electrical load - as more load will require more work for the alternator. For example say you have 'everything' maxxed out - that's 800W or about 1.5 hp at 70% efficiency. A 75A alternator 'could' consume 2hp IF you have that sort of load on it. More load more power.

Bottom line is - I think if you need more than the 55A because you have a big amp stereo or both heated screens or many extra lights etc then go 75A.

 

[Peter Good]

Unfortunately, alternators run at aprrox 38-40% efficiency, not 70% Peter Good