Alternator output
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Elder User
Joined: Mar 2005
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Alternator output
Just wondering what alernator is in my 4.0 unless there is more than one available. Is it strong enough to power some accessories such as HID lighting?? Also, can it run with the battery disconnecting using charge from the alternator or is the battery the only way to keep it on? thanks
Mountain Pass
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 249
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From: Santee, CA
I would consider changing the battery for a higher capacity unit. The alternator should be able to hold up against mild current draws, but a better battery will help buffer those uses. I have a '99 Supercab with the 4.0 and power everything, and found that the stock battery was only about 500CCA. For $105 at Costco I picked up a 720CCA Optima Red Top. Of course you can probably get an even higher-power lead-acid battery for less money, but you can't beat an Optima. 
I noticed they have an 800CCA Red Top available now, too. It was closer to $140 at Auto Zone, but not in stock.
If you end up needing a bigger alternator, they are out there. I picked up a Powermaster unit from Summit last year when the stock one died. 235 peak Amps for just under $300. I think there's a 150 or 200 Amp unit for closer to $200. It bolts up perfect and uses all the stock wiring, although they reccomend upsizing the positive lead to the battery.
I noticed they have an 800CCA Red Top available now, too. It was closer to $140 at Auto Zone, but not in stock.If you end up needing a bigger alternator, they are out there. I picked up a Powermaster unit from Summit last year when the stock one died. 235 peak Amps for just under $300. I think there's a 150 or 200 Amp unit for closer to $200. It bolts up perfect and uses all the stock wiring, although they reccomend upsizing the positive lead to the battery.
Last edited by rebturtle; Jun 25, 2006 at 05:00 PM.
Laughing Gas
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 1,245
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I think the Rangers, regardless of engine size received the 95 amp 3G alternator. The Explorer uses the 130 amp model and uses the same mount. It may be a less expensive alternative if you don't need the higher output of the aftermarket alternators.
Posting Guru
Joined: Jun 2006
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From: Slatington PA
That could be good for me, im lookin for something with a little higher output, so when i hit teh speakers, the lights dont dim along with the bassline. also, i hate feeling the wipers in the brakes.
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Senior User
Joined: Jan 2004
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From: allen park
Alan D:
Dude... how many watts/speakers are you pushing? I ran an 800 watt 10 inch sub loud and it never touched the rest of the electrical system.
Dude... how many watts/speakers are you pushing? I ran an 800 watt 10 inch sub loud and it never touched the rest of the electrical system.
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Posting Guru
Joined: Jun 2006
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From: Slatington PA
well, i built the radio thats in it, i'm not sure, i put homemade speakers in it. but the whole assembly sounds like s***t, so i'm putting a new system in it, but i could be putting alot out, because i designed it off of a 1970's dc amp used for concerts.
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