I am putting my engine back together and am ordering parts.


Any suggestions on an alternator that is best for an 82 351w? What amperage is desired to perform normal functions?

I see some that claim to have a one wire connection, others say they have a three wire connection. Is one more desired than the other? I will be having to install all new wiring in this truck and I have no connectors left from the previous harness.

 

Are you still working on that old truck? Or one of these trucks? It makes a difference. What year?

 

old truck, 1947. But no one answers any questions over on the other forum, haha. Also, as far as the accessories it will power, it will be much more in line with an 80-86 truck than a 1947 truck. I am not trying to step on any toes.

Everyone here has been helpful about all engine questions.

 

60 amps would be plenty for any normal use. You are wide open being it's in that truck with a custom harness. You can get a aftermarket one wire, or just use a 3 terminal like was originally used on these trucks. You can go to any store and buy one. It will take a external mounted regulator though.

You can also go with a later Ford or chevy alternator that has the regulator internal to the alternator. Everyone is goo goo ga ga over the 3G Ford alternators, and I guess they are ok. They come in 95, 105, and 130 amp I think.

 

I've got no problem with the 1G alternators, it's the 2G's I despise.
If you intend to run an electric fan the 130A 3G is highly recommended

 

What he said. The 3G puts out at idle about what the 1G does at full tilt. But, if 60A is enough for you then go with it. Personally, the 3G with the internal regulator cleans things up a lot so that's what I'd recommend.

 

Another 3G fan here. MUCH better than the 2G. No dim lights at idle or anything like that.

 

After looking at it, I think I will go with 3G just because I am starting from scratch and its not that much more expensive anyways.


Will a later model 351w alternator be a direct swap as far as mounting?

 

What do you mean "later model"
If you mean a 3G intended for a 5.8, no.
Completely different side mount alternator
You have to change the whole front dress.

Do you think I'm trying to make it difficult for you???

 

No I don't think you are trying to make it difficult, haha. I think you are trying to help me and I am not incredibly bright at times. I am asking a ton of questions because some of the stuff I read is pretty hard to follow or decipher.

So where can I find a 3g alternator that will mount right up? Or can I?

 

A 95A 7" C-C mount will fit without grinding the mount.
I don't know which vehicles these came in because no one wants one when the 130 is almost the same $ & work to install.
I'd suggest a '95 5.0 Mustang as a place to start looking.
I'm on my phone so surfing for answers to your questions is a challenge for me ATM.

 

Okay thank you very much. I will continue to look for one that will fit.

 

What is a C-C mount?

 

Look man, you're putting a 351W in a '47 Ford.
I'm not questioning your intelligence.

Your sanity..... maybe.

 

I question both sanity and intelligence daily, haha.

There are times where I think I have a handle on it, and times where I realize I don't have a clue.

Contrary to what it probably seems like, I am taking my time and not doing anything until I am very sure that its correct. I am learning a TON of things about this particular engine, mostly thanks to you all.