Alternator
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Joined: Jul 2012
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Alternator
I need a new alternator for my 76 F100 with a 360. I've found lots of different ones online, but I'm not sure which one to get. I need to be sure my replacement is a direct fit. Any help?
Thanks
Thanks
Lead Driver
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 5,217
Likes: 506
From: Pa.
If you have to replace alternator consider 3g alternator conversion .. See here under 3G 130-amp Alternator Retrofit https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...l#post12243490
Not sure if you mean output or mechanical fit..
I need to be sure my replacement is a direct fit.
Hotshot
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 14,333
Likes: 247
From: Stanley, VA
If you have factory air, it's probably a 65 amp. The other choices were 35, 40, 55 amp. They all pretty much interchange, the one big difference is whether it's a single or double groove pulley.
My truck came from the factory with a 35 amp. I replaced it with a 65 amp and it was a direct fit.
My truck came from the factory with a 35 amp. I replaced it with a 65 amp and it was a direct fit.
Postmaster
Joined: Nov 2011
Posts: 2,553
Likes: 10
For factory replacement, your local autoparts store can fix you up. They should be able to get a premium reman in a couple days. Going local makes core return easier and they can take care of any warranty issues. Amp rating should be on the rating plate attached to the alternator.
Lead Driver
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 5,217
Likes: 506
From: Pa.
If you are considering any upgrades like HO coil, stereo, headlight upgrades, or anything else which has a higher electrical draw puting back in a 65 amp alternator is silly .. If you want OEM case and fitment pull the one you have and have it rebuilt locally for higher output .. otherwise you can get a 3g 130 amp alternator for around $30 from the junk yard and fit it as per instructions linked to above ..
Post Fiend
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 8,261
Likes: 15
From: Big Sky Country
The "3G" upgrade gets bandied around this site like it's the next coming of Jesus Christ...
Yes, it's an improvement over oem but it's probably not even needed by 95% of the guys on this forum...
An oem 65 amp replacement will suffice, trust me
Yes, it's an improvement over oem but it's probably not even needed by 95% of the guys on this forum...
An oem 65 amp replacement will suffice, trust me
Lead Driver
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 5,217
Likes: 506
From: Pa.
Before there even was a 3g alternator .. I had a big housing alternator built to 120 amp .. anybody that pulls a trailer and has house batteries to charge , anybody that has on board electric hydraulics, electric winch , etc. so basically anybody that uses it as a truck it's needed as well as a second battery .. 95% ? don't go getting dramatic on me Montana 
That's 65 amps when it has been rebuilt and has new brushes .. 
and $30 for 130 amps + a harness for $15 is a great deal .. Trust me !! Considering the $60 underpowered rebuild is the alternative
That's 65 amps when it has been rebuilt and has new brushes .. and $30 for 130 amps + a harness for $15 is a great deal .. Trust me !! Considering the $60 underpowered rebuild is the alternative
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Post Fiend
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Postmaster
Joined: Nov 2011
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I've read the 3G posts and its a great swap if you need the amps and can find a good JY alternator. If you want to start with a new or premium reman alternator 3G is very pricey.
The OP didn't state electrical needs... if loads are stock or near, the 65A reman should work fine. I run around in my Dent with a 40A (!). If he's running dual batteries, winch, trailer, big stereo, snow plow ect. upgrade is in order.
The OP didn't state electrical needs... if loads are stock or near, the 65A reman should work fine. I run around in my Dent with a 40A (!). If he's running dual batteries, winch, trailer, big stereo, snow plow ect. upgrade is in order.
Post Fiend
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 8,261
Likes: 15
From: Big Sky Country
The 65 amp unit will suffice, or even succeed most users demand, that's not a popular statement around here, as most are 3G fan bois, but so be it.
