I did a search here at FTE about a 3G alternator upgrade. There's alot of good threads but I didn't really find alot about my year and model. Does anyone know if there is a 3G with the same hole pattern as the stock alternator on an 83 F-250 with a 351W? Also if there is a wiring diagram out there somewhere for a 3G upgrade that utilizes the OE dash guage?
Thanks for steering me in the right direction ri_truck_guy

 

I did a write up on the install with a 1986 F-250 and 351W. It was bolt in. Check the tech at the top of the page.

 

Thanks, I clicked the search tab and typed in 3G alternator upgrade for my year but didn't see it. I'm a new user and I'm sure it was operator error. Thank you

 

most upgrade apply to model-year styles, i.e. 80-86 f-150/250/350 all used the same basic operating system with minor changes, try just searching for 3G upgrade.

 

I've got some pretty good web sites on the new wiring for this upgrade saved on another computer. I'll post them when I get home. The big thing to remember, especially if you go the 200 amp route, is that a lot of big new power requires a lot of big new wire. You'll also need to use some heavy marine grade fuses.

 

Agreed with above. It does require upgrading the output wire, and making sure the charging system is up to the extra power. Right now, your charging system is designed for 65 Amps, not 130 +. You could just go to the JY and pick up the alternator and the factory plugs/output wire. Make sure you can get as long as possible of each harness, even if it includes disassembling the factory harness. It just makes it easier having too much wire and having to cut than not enough.

 

Here are some of the pages I have on file...there's plenty of more if you google 3g Alternator Upgrade. The last page is the source I use for all my relays and heavy duty electrical supplies, including the mega fuses and holders needed for the upgrade. That company is pretty reasonable and reliable.

Ford Fuel Injection Alternator Files
Ford Fuel Injection 3G Install Tech
Converting A Ford 2G to 3G Alternator
PCS - Performance Connection Systems, Delphi, Tyco, Deutsch, Bussman, Connectors, Relays, Circuit breakers, wire, terminals

 

Hey thanks very much guy's, I really appreciate your taking the time in offering your assistance. It's extremely helpful!

 

The bill will be in the mail.

 

I like this idea, but mind had the smog pump taken out and the alt was cobbled in with metal plate and pipe as a spacer. Does any one have a pic of a pre-smog 460? I'd be putting the 3g in and using and older bracket. Even the stock original bracket would work, but it leaves that empty space.....
Do all 3G's look basically the same? The 2G seems to be like Chevys and the 3G on most newer FI cars? I'm wondering what to look for at the yards.

 

If you look at the Ford Fuel Injection Alternator Files link I provided above, you'll find a good description and pictures of each generation of alternators. Basically, the 3G alternator differs from the 2G in that the 2G fan is external to the case and visible. while the 3G fan is internal. There is a large case and small case version of the 3G. I know the Windsor engines use the small case version. I'm not sure on the 460, measure the one you have as a starting point. Also, there are two different wing configurations for the attachment points.....180 degrees and about 110-120 degrees. You'll need to match that too.

 

Make sure to look at the pictures before you get one, as there are two different ones - a 95 amp and a 130 amp. The 95 amp has 4 holes between two ribs in 3 locations on the front of the case (120 degrees apart). the 130 amp one has two big holes in the 3 locations on the front of the case (120 degrees apart).

 

I got a compleate kit for everything from www.pa-performance.com They were very helpful the phone # is 1-877-471-8010. The 2g to 3g kits they offer come in 3 varations a 95amp, a 130amp and a 200amp. I went with the 130amp kit. The 200amp kit requires you to convert to a serptain belt because they say a v-belt will slip because of the magnatic field created by the 200amp alt. I don't know if it is true, but figured they knew more about it than me. hope this was helpful. good luck.

 

Not true.....I ran the 200 amp 3G on a v belt for a year before I did my mass air conversion without issue.

 

You guys are awesome! Thank you very much