Proper alternator selection
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Post Fiend
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 6,328
Likes: 124
From: Iowa
Proper alternator selection
Any Ford alternator experts out there? Here is what I am running on my 53. 1980 302 with AC, PW, Haywire harness which of course is all set up for GM. (Wire cutters please, we ain't putting any more Chevy stuff on this truck than I have to.) I am also running a late 70s style electronic ignition with Blue grommet module. Should I run an integrated regulator or external? How many AMPS? I will buy what I need but don't want to waste money on something with way more output than necessary.
Dewayne
Dewayne
Cargo Master
Joined: Jun 2001
Posts: 2,571
Likes: 22
From: Oxford, Indiana
Proper alternator selection
I personally don't think you need any more than about a 60 amp (typical) alternator. You can get an internal or externally regulated Ford alternator with the same case and mounting positions, but with the way Ford designed their internally regulated alternators, you've got just as many wires to sort out as if you went with an external. The only thing you'd be saving is having to mount a regulator. If you want a clean, simple installation with no fuss, I'd pick a 60 amp (smaller case) externally regulated alternator from a late 70's full-size car ('79 T-bird is good) and get a self-exciting, alternator-mounted regulator. Then all you have to hook up is one 10 guage wire from the hot post on the alternator to the battery and you're done. Sacramento Vintage Ford sells them. Slick little unit that mounts right on the back of the alternator. Very clean.
Thread Starter
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Post Fiend
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 6,328
Likes: 124
From: Iowa
Proper alternator selection
Thanks for the advice, I will check out the alternator mounted regulator. I have installed the GM one wire alternator but didn't even know it was an option here.
Dewayne
Dewayne
