Newbie Question 3G Alternator

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Jun 19, 2018 | 09:07 AM

Lawsnook

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Newbie Question 3G Alternator

I have read several threads about the 3G alternator. But, I don't know what that is referring to. About 3 years ago, my truck wouldn't start and I thought it was the battery. The battery was toast. But, after getting a new batttery, I realized my alternator was charging. I replaced it. I got it from Oreilly's and installed it myself. I didn't get the cheapest one. I don't remember anything about 3G. A few of the threads talked about the volt gauge showing the alternator charging pretty low. BUt, on mine, it is always pretty high -- usually at least 3/4 of the way on the gauge. Did I get a 3G and not know it? Should I not worry about it since it seems to be working fine.

Jun 19, 2018 | 09:30 AM

HardScrabble

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Joined: Aug 2003

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The risk for fire is the charging plug on the 2G. The 2G charging plug is a blade connector. If it is loose or corroded you get a high resistance connection and heat. If your connector is tight and well preserved you run very little risk of problems. I put dielectric grease on mine. Done and done. Check it for heat from time to time.

http://www.fuelinjectedford.com/page75.html

There is a brake switch that is a fire hazard also. Don't think it applies to your truck but it is worth checking.

Jun 19, 2018 | 09:34 AM

rla2005

Fleet Owner

Joined: Oct 2005

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From: Kentucky

If you are referring to the 1992 F150 in your profile then your truck has the fire prone 2G alternator. Assumes no one has previously upgraded it. As noted above it's not the alternator per se, it's the connectors that make it a time bomb. Extremely poor design and to top it off the output is very low at idle RPM. The 3G design is light years ahead.

Your truck is not affected by the Brake Pressure Switch issues related to the Speed Control system and the associated Recall Yours uses the older vacuum servo setup.

Jun 20, 2018 | 04:09 AM

bad_idea

Senior User

Joined: Apr 2018

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From: Pasquotank, NC

So, what year did the 3G alternator become standard?

Jun 20, 2018 | 09:20 AM

McLeod

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1993 was the first M/Y F series/Bronco to get the 3G. It is a 95A. (Except diesels and ambulance packages which are 130A)

130A are available on Taurus' (spelling?), Explorers and several other Ford vehicles. and the three bolt models will bolt in easily.
Recommended to upgrade the charging wire and fusible link (or fuse) to handle the extra amperage.

Jun 20, 2018 | 10:59 AM

rla2005

Fleet Owner

Joined: Oct 2005

Posts: 20,786

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From: Kentucky

Quote:

Originally Posted by McLeod

1993 was the first M/Y F series/Bronco to get the 3G. It is a 95A. (Except diesels and ambulance packages which are 130A)

X2....

Jun 20, 2018 | 10:58 PM

SleeprLegend

Mountain Pass

Joined: Jan 2006

Posts: 249

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From: Moody, AL

Quote:

Originally Posted by McLeod

I am considering upgrading to the 130A alternator for my 1994 Bronco. Would you happen to know which years of Taurus, explorer, etc. has this with the same three bolt mount? Do you have any info on the wiring upgrade you recommended?

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Jun 21, 2018 | 08:20 AM

McLeod

Cargo Master

Joined: Mar 2003

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There are many awesome write-ups about the 3G alternator conversion and/or upgrade.
This one is pretty helpful and was started by the guy that assembled the oldfuelinjection dot com website:
http://www.fullsizebronco.com/forum/23-technical-write-ups/26658-3g-alternator-facts-its-wins-agian.html

A copy and paste from RockAuto shows what models have the same 130A alternator:

Quote:

Guide : POWER SELECT 7768N6G2 Alternator / Generator

FORD CLUB WAGON 1995-1996
FORD E-150 1993-1996
FORD E-250 1993-1996
FORD E-350 1992-1996
FORD ECONOLINE SUPER DUTY 1996
FORD EXPLORER 1993-1996
FORD F SUPER DUTY 1992-1995
FORD F-150 2000
FORD F-250 1992-1994
FORD F-350 1992-1994
FORD F59 1992-1997

Please refer to catalog for application details.

These are the three bolt side mounted alternators. I'm pretty sure engine size isn't a factor.

There is also a very helpful website, which some days it works and others it doesn't. It is a re-published site of the old "oldfuelinjection" site I mentioned above
Fuel Injection Technical Library » 3G Install Tech
It may or may not work - if not - try back later