I know we are supposed to use the search function and I have, but I can't find a thread where anything came to completion. My question is about alternators. The Hulk had a no start because of dead batteries the other day, I jumped it and it started after about 10 minutes of being connected. Then had to jump it again later that day, that one was connect and start. We took a long drive and we ended up idling for about 30 minutes in a parking lot and it has started fine since then. Took it in and had the batteries checked (Motorcraft Max 750cca) batteries did fine on a load test, but charging system is lagging. I've tried researching because I would like to go with a higher output alternator, my wife constantly starts the truck with everything running and kids leave stuff plugged into the power jacks all the time, but I'm getting mixed and incomplete information about aftermarket alternators. DC sounds good if you get one that's not a complete hunk of crap right off the bat. Mean Green sounds like they only last about two years. Anyone have any useful information on this? I want to get this resolved so I don't destroy my FICM or injectors, I think this low voltage situation has already taken out my Edge CS (which apparently because of the EPA they don't sell anymore.)

 

You say "batteries" thus you have a diesel?
Just idling with stock alternator isn't really going to charge much, if the a/c, heat, or lights are on.
Leaving things plugged in that drains the batteries won't get fixed with an alternator upgrade either.
Ed at ficmrepair.com stocks DC alternator that are the more reliable model, mine has worked great of course I also went with the upgraded wire kits.

 

Yes I have a diesel. I understand that leaving stuff plugged in while the truck is sitting turned off won't be affected by a larger alternator, my concern is more with while it's running between destinations. I'm thinking that batteries are not getting the attention they need because of the heat/ac, tablets, lights, radio all that stuff; we also have the trailer with it's running lights and would like to add some extra exterior lighting as well in the future. Alternator appears to be original and figured if I was going to change it I would like to upgrade, just want to make sure it's worth the money. I found a thread a while back where someone went through three brand new DC alternators before getting a good one, I believe LivingLarge had posted in the same thread saying he had the same issue. If I upgrade I want to make sure I'm not throwing my money away, as it is tight, like I'm sure it is with everyone.

 

I have had DB Electrical alternator for 200A since May 2015. Never had any troubles with it at all. Charges at 14.4volts, I also upgraded the wiring from the alternator to the battery, just in case. I have read where some have had problems with them, but I can attest I have been trouble free since purchase.

 

So I see a 185, 190, and 250 as being the closest to 200. My concern with the 190 and 250 is compatibility with other aftermarket parts according to the website. I believe I would be getting the 185 or 270. I'm thinking an extra $250 is hard to justify even though we plan on keeping this truck for a very long time, I don't know of anything else that can haul 4 kids, 2 adults, and tow a 36' trailer unless I win the lottery.

 

I'm sorry, I totally overlooked the DB (not DC) I will look into them. Thanks.

 

This seems popular with 6.0 owners. Far as I know it is absolutely new and not remanufactured. I do not have one on my truck , but will at some point.

 

This is what I have on my 6.0

240a Truck Tough High Output Alternator for Ford 6.0 diesel - Truck Tough High Output Alternators | Online Store

So far (about a year now) I have had no issues with it.

Fingers Crossed!!!

 

Yes it was I that went through 2 bad ones, I had purchased the top of the line 320amp... At the end they downgraded me to the 270amp, in all fairness to DC Power I have not had any issues since. Been holding at 14.6 down to 14.2 with both ac's, lights and just about everything running.

 

I was having the same problem. Short trips and my batteries wouldn't get a good charge and barely started the truck. I put a 300XP DC power alternator and upgraded to 1/0 wiring. I got rid of the factory battery terminals and upgraded to knukonceptz ultimate battery terminals then topped it off with a pair of deep cycle blue top optima's. Its probably all in my head just my subconscious trying to helping me justify the butt load of $$$ I spent on this upgrade but it seams like everything works better now! My headlights and dash lights are brighter, it starts faster, trans seams to shift stronger, throttle seams more responsive & my sub's luv it! Think I'm going to add a 3rd amp to my stereo system.

 

Yep, the XP270 (stocked by Ed, by the way) has been reliable
The 320 amp (forget the models) have the problematic part.

 

Correct the Bosch diodes

 

Some may argue but high CCA AGM batteries are hard to beat, I also have a 185 AMP alternator. I do not running the diesel on short trips if I can help it, the gassers do the short runs. I am looking at upgrading my alternator/battery cables too, need to keep the injectors happy.

 

Unfortunately our EX does do short trips as it is the kid hauler during the week, our tow vehicle, and family car on weekends. I just can't afford a vehicle to haul this many kids around during the week and a tow vehicle, along with that I need to get back and forth to work. I was totally planning on winning the Powerball tonight and not having to worry about this anymore.

 

Nice to see that my Powerball plan is still an option, I just have to wait a couple more days. 1.3 BILLION, I would have someone design a alternator that never fails and then a custom bracket to have two of them installed in my truck. Why? because I could.