Alternator Question

[71newp]

I have a '76 Cordoba that has a 60 amp alternator. I have heard that the wiring harnesses were "sized" to the alternator. If this is true would it be dangerous to upgrade to a 78amp alternator? My 60amp has a single groove pulley, the 78amp has a two groove pulley. Would this be an issue? Thanks

 

[PurpleBeeper]

That is a good question. I had a 77 Cordoba and I "think" it had a factory 100amp alternator (?). It wouldn't make sense to manufacture 3 different wiring harnesses for 3 different alternator options (or even 2) in the same car & hope the factory guys didn't mix up the harnesses. I would bet you're OK upgrading to any optional alternator for your year/make/model...but check & don't take my word on it.

 

[493 Mike]

Check the existing alternator output wire gauge and look up ampere carrying capacities of automotive wiring for your answer. If necessary you can add a new larger wire to the battery from the alternator.
Mike

 

[WileERobby]

Why do you need to go to a 78 amp ? Are you adding lighting, audio, ..?

 

[71newp]

Why do you need to go to a 78 amp ? Are you adding lighting, audio, ..?

The 78 amp is actually cheaper!!!

 

[Nacho-RT74]

And better!

 

[ChargerM440]

If you’re worried about increasing the size of your alternator the easiest thing to do is to add a larger gauge wire going from the alternator post directly to the pos side of the battery. You can use a wire calculator to determine the size you need depending on the total length. In this case I would run a dedicated 8 gauge wire with an in-line 90 amp fuse to the pos battery terminal.


https://www.wirebarn.com/Wire-Calculator-_ep_41.html