Please recommend alternator size
Fleet Owner
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 27,897
Likes: 3,615
IMO installing at least a 140A unit is beneficial - I hate to see voltages drop much below 11V when cranking! Beyond that depends on your specific needs. The reason for upgrading to higher output units (or installing a smaller pulley) depends on whether or not you have a special need for the output.
I have 2 extra batteries and run a 2000 W power inverter (sometimes for extended periods) and wanted higher output at idle rpms. Some people run air compressors or winches.
For my application, I really am happy w/ the DC Power unit. That being said, I did have the brushes fail on mine. Easy fix (and I am still pleased w/ the unit's performance) but no alternator is going to be bulletproof. It is hard to argue with the philosophy of buying one from a auto parts store so that you have easy access to a warranty replacement - unless you need more output than the average person.
I have 2 extra batteries and run a 2000 W power inverter (sometimes for extended periods) and wanted higher output at idle rpms. Some people run air compressors or winches.
For my application, I really am happy w/ the DC Power unit. That being said, I did have the brushes fail on mine. Easy fix (and I am still pleased w/ the unit's performance) but no alternator is going to be bulletproof. It is hard to argue with the philosophy of buying one from a auto parts store so that you have easy access to a warranty replacement - unless you need more output than the average person.
Hotshot
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 19,060
Likes: 238
From: Saratoga Springs,UT
Oh OK
I was thinking I might have to do something similar if my DC Goes down
Do you know what Happened??
Its only been what a Year maybe little longer Since you went with the DC Power 270Amp
Just seams Fast unless you really working it
Fleet Owner
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 27,897
Likes: 3,615
I use it for my extra stuff, but it was still too fast. It was a little over two years. Pretty much all of the brushes out there are made in China it seems.
DC Power was willing to do the work, I just didn't want the downtime sending it in.
DC Power was willing to do the work, I just didn't want the downtime sending it in.
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 1,296
Likes: 1
From: Coal Valley, Illinois
I have a DC Power 270 amp. I have gone trough many "cheap" alts in the past. They work hard to keep 2 batts up and I found a cycle of bad batteries and alternators like clock work over the years. As either start going the other may fail as a result, that my experience anyway. I've only had the DC Power for about 1 year but no more dimming headlights at idle etc. If you should get a high power alt don't forget to upgrade wiring.
Blade is right though, whatever you get I would suggest quality regardless of warranty. The last thing you want to do is mess with the ever so sensitive FICM or injectors! having a monitor or volt gauge to monitor volts is a good idea. Good piece of mind to know the charging system health. Consider having your alt rebuilt at a quality shop too, would be better than new. I still have my stock alt I can keep with me if the DC Power fails.
Blade is right though, whatever you get I would suggest quality regardless of warranty. The last thing you want to do is mess with the ever so sensitive FICM or injectors! having a monitor or volt gauge to monitor volts is a good idea. Good piece of mind to know the charging system health. Consider having your alt rebuilt at a quality shop too, would be better than new. I still have my stock alt I can keep with me if the DC Power fails.
Hotshot
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 15,368
Likes: 121
From: Stuttgart, Ar
I found the same thing on several Motorcraft alternators. Brushes worn to a nub in a very short time and no failure of the major internal parts. The shop owner told me he makes a living repairing Motorcraft alternators.
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Posting Guru
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 1,170
Likes: 1
From: Moyock, NC
What is suggested for upgrade to wire gage...and exactly which wires are changed?
I can only remember the three wire connector and the main wire to the primary battery postive post. Does the three wire connector need changing as well?
I can only remember the three wire connector and the main wire to the primary battery postive post. Does the three wire connector need changing as well?
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 1,296
Likes: 1
From: Coal Valley, Illinois
Steve
Fleet Owner
Joined: Apr 2012
Posts: 27,307
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From: Spanaway
Thanks
Sean
Posting Guru
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 1,170
Likes: 1
From: Moyock, NC
242266 8-Groove Pulley For Ford 3G Series Alternators Used On (2005-97) Ford, Lincoln Replaces Ford F65U-10A352-AA, F65Z-10344-AA, GP-720 Lester Nos 7764, 7776, 7790, 7791, 8267 Dimensions 28mm Belt x 58mm Rib OD x 17mm Bore
http://www.oreillyauto.com/site/c/de...uty&vi=5018043
http://www.oreillyauto.com/site/c/detail/MOT0/GP720.oap
Senior User
Joined: Jul 2013
Posts: 302
Likes: 0
From: California
I'd recommend shopping around and comparing actual cost.
I purchased a DC Power 185 for $298 shipped. From order to my house in 3 days. I kept the marginal oem in case I ever need it.
The local O'Reilly has the Ultima remanned 135amp upper alternator for $224.99. Sales tax in my area is $23.37. That brings the total up to $248.36. There is an additional $50 core charge but you get it back.
I payed $50 more for a alternator with more output albeit with a shorter warranty. There are threads on here discussing why it is beneficial going with the larger case alternator which the DC Power uses. There is info on the DC Power site claiming that it is using superior components. For me, it was worth the extra $50.
I purchased a DC Power 185 for $298 shipped. From order to my house in 3 days. I kept the marginal oem in case I ever need it.
The local O'Reilly has the Ultima remanned 135amp upper alternator for $224.99. Sales tax in my area is $23.37. That brings the total up to $248.36. There is an additional $50 core charge but you get it back.
I payed $50 more for a alternator with more output albeit with a shorter warranty. There are threads on here discussing why it is beneficial going with the larger case alternator which the DC Power uses. There is info on the DC Power site claiming that it is using superior components. For me, it was worth the extra $50.